DE SB126

Creates a presumption that covered firefighters with heart disease, lung disease, or certain cancers contracted these conditions in the line of duty, making them eligible for occupational disease benefits.

Establishes eligibility requirements including 5 years of continuous service, a pre-employment medical examination showing no evidence of listed conditions, and periodic medical examinations (every 5 years for 1-20 years of service, every 3 years for 21+ years).

Covers specific cancers including leukemia, pancreatic, prostate (under age 50), breast, ovarian, uterine, cervical, lung, bladder, and throat cancer caused by occupational carcinogen exposure, with a 5-year service requirement for cancer claims.

Allows heart problems to qualify if experienced within 72 hours of smoke/fume/toxic substance exposure or within 24 hours of strenuous firefighting activities, and requires all conditions to result in permanent disability.

Permits the presumption to be rebutted by preponderance of evidence including tobacco use, physical fitness, lifestyle factors, hereditary factors, and non-occupational exposures; excludes regular tobacco users from coverage.