The bill amends sections 45-19.1-3 and 45-19.1-4 of the General Laws concerning "Cancer Benefits for Fire Fighters." It establishes that any firefighter who is unable to perform their duties due to a disabling occupational cancer is entitled to receive disability benefits. The provisions apply to all firefighters employed by any municipality, overriding any conflicting municipal laws, charters, or ordinances.

The bill introduces a conclusive presumption that any type of cancer found in a firefighter is considered an occupational cancer, with specific exceptions for firefighters hired after July 22, 2020. These exceptions include cases where a physical examination at hiring revealed cancer, if the firefighter has less than two years of service, or if they have used tobacco products habitually in the five years prior to a cancer diagnosis. The bill clarifies that these benefits will also apply retroactively to retired firefighters who develop occupational cancer and to all cancer-related claims pending after July 22, 2020. The act will take effect upon passage.