AK HB218

Establishes presumption that firefighters covered under AS 23.30.243 who develop respiratory disease, cardiovascular events within 72 hours of exposure to smoke or toxic substances, or specified cancers are eligible for workers' compensation disability coverage.

Lists nine presumed occupational cancers for firefighters: primary brain cancer, malignant melanoma, leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, bladder cancer, ureter cancer, kidney cancer, prostate cancer, and breast cancer.

Reduces minimum service requirement from seven to six years before disease presumption applies and changes initial medical examination requirement from "was given" to "underwent" language.

Modifies medical examination schedule from annual exams to at least once every two years during the first six years of employment, with qualifying exam required upon first employment as firefighter.

Extends presumption for three calendar months per year of service following employment termination, with maximum extension of 60 calendar months after last employment date.

Requires firefighters claiming cancer-related disabilities to demonstrate workplace exposure to known carcinogens as defined by the International Agency for Research on Cancer or National Toxicology Program.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.