CT SB00410

Expands the definition of "killed in the line of duty" for first responders to include "firefighter cancer death," covering cancers affecting the skin, brain, skeletal, digestive, endocrine, respiratory, lymphatic, reproductive, urinary, or hematological systems that result in death.

Requires payments and reimbursements related to firefighter cancer deaths to be paid from the firefighters cancer relief account (established under section 7-313h) rather than the general Fallen Hero Fund.

Provides retroactive eligibility for the $100,000 lump sum death benefit to families of firefighters who would have qualified for cancer-related compensation under section 7-313p on or after October 1, 2023.

Establishes a one-year pilot program by October 1, 2026, administered by the State Fire Marshal, to reimburse firefighters for cancer screenings common to firefighters, operating in one volunteer fire department municipality and one paid fire department municipality, with a report due by January 1, 2028.

Most provisions take effect July 1, 2026, with the cancer screening pilot program effective upon passage.