HI HB913

Creates a new chapter establishing medical coverage and disability benefits for firefighters (current and former) who develop cancer, presumed to arise from occupational exposure to known carcinogens.

Requires all accident and health insurance policies, hospital and medical service plans, and health maintenance organizations to include coverage for cancer treatment for firefighters, subject to standard copayments, deductibles, and coinsurance.

Establishes a presumption that cancer in firefighters arose from employment, rebuttable only by substantial evidence to the contrary, and extends this presumption indefinitely after service ends.

Provides disability retirement benefits, weekly income at 100% of average wages for total disability, funeral expenses (up to 10 times maximum weekly benefit), and dependent survivor benefits if a firefighter dies from cancer or becomes permanently incapacitated.

Exempts firefighters receiving benefits under this chapter from the standard workers' compensation system under chapter 386; effective July 1, 2050.