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HB 331

Relating to certain presumptions applicable to claims for benefits or compensation for certain medical conditions brought by certain first responders.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Salman Bhojani and 17 co-sponsors

HB 331 presumes work-caused occupational illnesses in Texas first responders, requiring employers to disprove rather than workers to prove job causation in benefits claims.

Effective immediately
#citygovernment--employees/officers(i0061) #countygovernment--employees/officers(i0095) #firefighters&police--general(i0370) #health--emergencyservices&personnel(i0384) #lawenforcement(i0510)
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Bill Summary · HB 331

Legislative bill overview

HB 331 establishes legal presumptions that certain medical conditions in first responders (firefighters, peace officers, etc.) are work-related, shifting the burden of proof in workers' compensation and benefits claims. This means first responders diagnosed with these conditions no longer need to prove their job caused the illness—employers must instead prove it didn't.

Why is this important

First responders face occupational exposure to carcinogens, infectious diseases, and traumatic incidents at rates far exceeding the general population. This bill removes procedural barriers that have historically made it difficult for first responders to obtain compensation for work-related illnesses, potentially affecting thousands of claims across Texas and setting precedent for other states.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to employers and insurers: Shifting presumptions increases workers' compensation insurance claims and costs, which may be passed to municipalities and taxpayers funding first responder agencies
  • Scope of covered conditions unclear: The bill references "certain medical conditions" without the full text available, leaving ambiguity about which illnesses qualify and potential for disputes
  • Burden on employers to disprove causation: Requires employers to affirmatively prove non-work causation rather than responders proving work causation, fundamentally reversing evidentiary standards that may be difficult or impossible to meet scientifically

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

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