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 the provisions for occupational cancer disability benefits apply to all fire fighters employed by any municipality, overriding any conflicting municipal laws, charters, or ordinances. The bill clarifies that fire fighters who are unable to perform their duties due to a disabling occupational cancer developed during their service are entitled to receive these benefits.

Additionally, the bill introduces a conclusive presumption that any type of cancer found in a fire fighter is considered an occupational cancer, with specific exceptions for fire fighters hired after July 22, 2020. These exceptions include cases where a physical examination at hiring revealed cancer, if the fire fighter 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 provisions also apply retroactively to all cancer-related claims pending after July 22, 2020. The act will take effect upon passage.