CA AB2577

Creates a presumption that respiratory illnesses and diseases (including occupational asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asbestos-related lung diseases) are work-related injuries for specified active firefighters, peace officers, and fire/rescue coordinators.

Applies to firefighters from public and private fire departments, University of California, California State University, the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Department of Defense installations, and NASA installations, as well as specified peace officers and Office of Emergency Services coordinators.

Presumes respiratory illness arose from employment unless controverted by evidence showing the primary cause was established and the exposure is not reasonably linked to the illness.

Extends the presumption for three calendar months after termination of service for each full year of employment, with a maximum extension of 120 months.

Applies retroactively to claims filed or pending on or after January 1, 2014, including previously denied claims and those under appeal.