HB10 Alabama 2019 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Tommy Hanes

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2019

Title

Occupational diseases, certified firefighters of municipalities, cancer diagnosis a rebuttable presumption that cause is job related, presumption extended to previously employed for 10 yrs after last date of service

Summary

HB 10 would create a rebuttable presumption that certain cancers in firefighters with 10+ years of service are occupational diseases caused by firefighting, with extended coverage for those previously employed for up to 10 years after leaving service.

What This Bill Does

If a qualified firefighter develops cancer, the cancer is presumed to be work-related and eligible for occupational-disease benefits. The presumption is rebuttable by evidence meeting judicial standards. The presumption applies to both current and former firefighters who have 10+ years of service, and lasts for 10 years after the last date of service. Heirs of affected firefighters are also entitled to the related rights and benefits.

Who It Affects

• Certified firefighters (current or former) who have completed 10+ years of service with a municipality and develop listed cancers; the cancer would be treated as occupational disease and eligible for related benefits.
• Heirs of those firefighters who meet the criteria would be entitled to the rights and benefits related to occupational disease.

Key Provisions

• Defines 'qualified firefighter' as a certified firefighter employed or previously employed by a municipality with 10+ years of service.
• Creates a rebuttable presumption that cancer caused by exposure to heat, smoke, fumes, or carcinogens is an occupational disease connected to firefighting duties.
• Extends the presumption for 10 years after the last actual date of service.
• Limits the cancer types to those that can be caused by occupational exposure, listing specific cancers and allowing other cancers with a statistically significant increased risk per IARC.
• Upon meeting the presumption, the firefighter or their heirs receive all rights and benefits related to occupational disease provided by law.
• The presumption can be rebutted by evidence meeting judicial standards.
• Effective date: the act takes effect on the first day of the third month after passage and Governor approval (or as otherwise provided by law).

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Occupational Diseases