First-responder occupational disease compromise bill signed by Governor

HB 1913, concerning the presumption of occupational diseases for first-responders, was signed by the Governor last week. The bill provides first responders with additional workers’ compensation presumptions for certain cancers and infectious diseases. The bill also creates a permanent advisory committee within the Department of Labor and Industries that will review scientific evidence and make recommendations to the Legislature for any future presumptive diseases for first responders.

With the Governor’s signature, the bill now becomes law.

AWC supported the compromise bill as it was the product of negotiations among cities, counties, and first responder advocacy groups.