Texas House Bill HB4560

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/11/09
• Voted on by House: 5/17/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/23/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/28/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to certain diseases or illnesses suffered by certain emergency first responders.

Impact

The implementation of HB 4560 would modify existing worker's compensation statutes by explicitly acknowledging specific work-related health risks. This presumption not only affirms the legitimate health threats faced by firefighters and EMTs but also potentially eases the burden of proof required for these workers to obtain benefits. It underscores the importance of protecting the health of emergency personnel who are often exposed to dangerous conditions and infectious agents during their service.

Summary

House Bill 4560 addresses the health risks faced by emergency first responders, specifically firefighters and emergency medical technicians (EMTs). The bill establishes a legal presumption that certain illnesses, such as infections caused by methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), are contracted during the line of duty. This means that if a firefighter or EMT contracts MRSA while responding to an emergency or during training exercises, it is assumed they contracted the illness due to their work activities. This presumption is significant as it could streamline the process for first responders to receive benefits and compensation related to their illness.

Contention

While proponents of the bill advocate for the need to support emergency responders, there is likely to be contention surrounding the burden placed on state resources by increasing claims for work-related illnesses. Opponents may express concerns that giving blanket presumptions for illnesses could lead to potential misuse of benefits, wherein claims may not always be directly linked to work-related exposure. This debate highlights the ongoing struggle between ensuring adequate protection for first responders and managing the state's fiscal resources effectively.