Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H2528

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  

Caption

Relative to disability or death cause by contagious disease; presumption

Impact

The bill asserts that if a member of these services suffers from a contagious disease that can result from exposure to body fluids while in active service, that disease will be presumed to have been contracted in the line of duty, provided they did not exhibit any pre-existing conditions. The inclusion of modern health threats, such as COVID-19 and other diseases (e.g., Hepatitis, Tuberculosis, and HIV) recognized as occupational hazards, reflects a proactive approach to adapting public health policies to contemporary challenges faced by first responders.

Summary

House Bill 2528, proposed by Representative Denise C. Garlick, seeks to amend the General Laws of Massachusetts, specifically Chapter 32, to create a presumption of duty-related disability or death for full-time uniformed members of police, fire, and emergency medical services caused by contagious diseases. This legislative initiative is aimed at supporting public safety personnel who encounter various infectious diseases during their service, establishing a clearer path for them to claim disability or death benefits as a result of service-related incidents involving contagious diseases.

Contention

Notably, there are discussions regarding the implications of this presumption on existing workers' compensation frameworks and the potential increase in claims from service members. Supporters argue that it creates essential protections for those risking their lives on the front lines of public health crises, while critics may raise concerns about the bill leading to increased financial burdens on state resources or potential misuse of benefits. The bill also requires that benefits can only be claimed if the individual can demonstrate they were actively serving in their respective roles, which aims to mitigate concerns about fraudulent claims and ensures that those genuinely in need receive appropriate support.

Companion Bills

MA S1636

Similar To Relative to disability or death caused by contagious diseases; presumption

MA S1740

Similar To Relative to the safety of fire, police, and emergency medical technicians from contagious diseases

MA S1624

Replaces Relative to disability or death caused by infectious diseases, presumption

Previously Filed As

MA H3039

Relative to snow hauling and removal

MA H2804

Relative to medical and dental expense deductions

MA H1193

Relative to maintaining independent authority over nursing licensure in the Commonwealth

MA H302

Extending pandemic-related relief for dining establishments

MA H3499

Relative to providing veterans survivor benefits

MA H2530

Exempting all positions in the police department of the town of Needham from the civil service law

MA H2051

Requiring automatic external defibrillators in Norfolk County public buildings

MA H3038

Relative to the consolidation of Inspector General annual reports

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.