HI HB827

Expands workers' compensation medical benefits for firefighters with five or more years of service to include adenocarcinoma or mesothelioma of the respiratory system; cancers of the buccal cavity, colon, pharynx, and thyroid; and malignant melanoma.

Retains all previously covered cancers including leukemia, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and cancers of the lung, brain, stomach, esophagus, intestines, rectum, kidney, bladder, prostate, breast, female reproductive organs, and testes.

Employer liability for medical care, services, and supplies is set at a minimum of 110 percent and maximum of 150 percent of fees prescribed in the Medicare Resource Based Relative Value Scale applicable to Hawaii.

Allows employers to deny medical benefits by proving the cancer or disease was not associated with firefighting duties.

Effective date is July 1, 3000.