HI SB2181

Adds two new sections to Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 386 establishing medical coverage provisions for firefighters diagnosed with cancer.

For controverted workers' compensation claims, the injured employee's private health care plan pays for medical care, services, and supplies according to the contract, with the employer reimbursing both the plan and employee once the claim is accepted or determined compensable.

For firefighters with five or more years of service diagnosed with leukemia, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, or cancer of the lung, brain, stomach, esophagus, intestines, rectum, kidney, bladder, prostate, or testes, employers must cover medical care, services, and supplies at a minimum of 110 percent of Medicare Resource Based Relative Value Scale fees applicable to Hawaii.

Addresses occupational cancer risk for firefighters based on National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health research showing firefighters have higher cancer rates than the general population due to exposure to carcinogens from burning synthetic materials.

Takes effect upon approval; does not create new benefits but improves firefighters' access to comprehensive medical coverage for cancer-related conditions arising from employment.