WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 269

Disability Provisions for Firefighters and Law Enforcement and Correctional Officers

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dean Black and 1 co-sponsor

Bill would have expanded presumptive disability benefits for Florida firefighters, law enforcement, and correctional officers but died in subcommittee without passage.

Died in Insurance & Banking Subcommittee
#subjectindex
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 269

Legislative bill overview

HB 269 would have expanded disability benefit provisions for Florida firefighters, law enforcement officers, and correctional officers by creating or modifying presumptive disability coverage and benefit eligibility standards. The bill specifically addressed workers' compensation and disability determinations for these occupational groups.

Why is this important

First responders and correctional officers face elevated occupational hazards and stress-related conditions. Presumptive disability laws assume certain conditions (like PTSD, heart disease, or cancer) are work-related for these workers, removing the burden of proving causation and expediting benefits during vulnerable periods. This directly affects healthcare access and financial security for public safety employees and their families.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Expanding presumptive disability coverage increases state workers' compensation liability and insurance costs, potentially affecting government budgets
  • Scope definition: Determining which conditions qualify as presumptive (and for which job categories) involves balancing inclusivity against actuarial sustainability
  • Eligibility criteria: Questions around tenure requirements, service length, and whether all three occupational groups have equivalent presumptive protections may have created legislative disagreement

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.