HI HCR32

Requests convening of a task force to examine issues relating to cancer in the firefighting profession, with Senate and House health committee chairs serving as co-chairs.

Task force composition to include representatives from Department of Health, Department of Human Resources Development, Disability Compensation Division, Employees' Retirement System, State Fire Council, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, county human resources branches, health insurance industry, workers' compensation attorney, Hawaii Fire Fighters Association, and fire chiefs from each county.

Task force directed to examine workers' compensation law revisions to expedite benefits for firefighters with cancer, compare cancer diagnosis rates between Hawaii firefighters and general population, and estimate costs of increased benefits.

Task force to review county fire department safety procedures for prevention and reporting of toxicant exposure and recommend administrative rule changes to improve workers' compensation benefits for firefighters diagnosed with cancer.

Task force required to submit findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2017 Regular Session convenes.