New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4127

Introduced
6/2/22  
Refer
6/2/22  
Refer
6/9/22  
Report Pass
6/23/22  
Report Pass
6/27/22  
Engrossed
6/29/22  
Enrolled
6/29/22  
Chaptered
9/15/22  

Caption

Mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for professional firefighters not enrolled in SHBP; makes appropriation.

Impact

With the enactment of A4127, state law will require public employers to provide these health examinations without requiring co-payments, deductibles, or out-of-pocket expenses for the firefighters. Employers that do not participate in the State Health Benefits Program will be eligible for reimbursement from the state for the costs of providing the mandated examinations, capped at $1,250 per firefighter every three years. The bill is intended to ensure that all firefighters have access to crucial health screenings, thereby promoting better occupational health outcomes.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4127 mandates that full-time paid firefighters not enrolled in the State Health Benefits Program be provided with periodic cancer screening examinations. The screenings are required to occur no less than three years after the start of a firefighter's employment and subsequently every three years. This legislation aims to address the health risks associated with firefighting, as these professionals have been shown to be at a higher risk for certain types of cancer due to exposure to hazardous environments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding A4127 has been generally supportive among lawmakers and firefighting advocacy groups. Many perceive the bill as a necessary measure for safeguarding the health of firefighters who often face dangerous working conditions. However, there may exist some apprehension regarding the financial implications for public employers obligated to implement these new screening requirements, even with the provision for state reimbursements.

Contention

A notable point of contention is the potential burden on public employers, particularly those that do not participate in the State Health Benefits Program. Although the state offers reimbursement for costs, concerns have been raised about the sustainability of this arrangement, especially in smaller municipalities with limited budgets. Additionally, while the bill is lauded for prioritizing firefighter health, some opposition may arise from stakeholders concerned about the long-term fiscal impact on local government resources.

Companion Bills

NJ S2743

Same As Mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for professional firefighters not enrolled in SHBP; makes appropriation.

Previously Filed As

NJ S2743

Mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for professional firefighters not enrolled in SHBP; makes appropriation.

NJ A3939

Mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for professional firefighters not enrolled in SHBP, but who are eligible for SHBP by virtue of public employment.

NJ S2890

Mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for professional firefighters not enrolled in SHBP, but who are eligible for SHBP by virtue of public employment.

NJ S3405

Mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for volunteer firefighters.

NJ S3567

Provides access to periodic cancer screening examinations for volunteer firefighters through SHBP physicians and other providers.

NJ A4649

Provides access to periodic cancer screening examinations for volunteer firefighters through SHBP physicians and other providers.

NJ S2037

Mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for volunteer firefighters.

NJ A5081

Mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for volunteer firefighters; increases tax on fire insurance premiums.

NJ A373

Mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for volunteer firefighters; increases tax on fire insurance premiums.

NJ S296

Mandates access to cancer screenings for firefighters through health care benefits plan or program provided by the public employer.

Similar Bills

CA AB2727

Personal income taxes: credit: firefighters.

CA SB206

Firefighters Procedural Bill of Rights Act: Department of Forestry and Fire Protection: temporary appointments.

NJ S2776

Establishes certain marine firefighting training course requirements.

NJ A5758

Establishes certain marine firefighting training course requirements.

NJ A1081

Establishes certain marine firefighting training course requirements.

AR HB1067

To Modify The Law Concerning Residency Requirements For Certain Firefighters.

CA AB932

Workers’ compensation: off-duty firefighters.

CA AB1299

Peace officers: employment.