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Bill

HB 2013

public safety cancer insurance

57th Legislature - First Regular Session Introduced by David Livingston

Arizona establishes dedicated cancer insurance for public safety employees to cover occupational cancer risks from firefighting and emergency response work.

Signed by Governor
0
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Bill Summary · HB 2013

Legislative bill overview

HB 2013 establishes an insurance program to provide cancer coverage for public safety employees (firefighters, police officers, emergency responders) in Arizona. The bill creates a mechanism for these workers to access dedicated cancer insurance benefits, recognizing occupational cancer risks associated with their professions.

Why is this important

Public safety workers face documented elevated cancer risks from occupational exposures (smoke, chemicals, carcinogens). This bill addresses a significant gap in worker protection by ensuring first responders have dedicated coverage for cancer-related treatment and care, reducing financial burden during serious illness and acknowledging workplace-related health hazards.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: Unclear whether premiums, employer contributions, or state funding cover the program; potential budget impact on municipalities and state agencies
  • Coverage scope: Definition of "public safety employees" may be debated (does it include dispatchers, support staff, or only field responders?); which cancers are covered and eligibility criteria
  • Insurance mechanism: Whether this duplicates existing workers' compensation cancer presumptions or creates separate administrative burden; interaction with federal FELA or state workers' comp systems

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

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