Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0458

Introduced
2/26/25  

Caption

Makes the provisions of ยงยง 45-19.1-3 and 45-19.1-4, benefits for firefighters with cancer, effective regardless of any general, special or specific law, or any charter and/or municipal ordinance to the contrary.

Impact

The bill is expected to enhance the occupational cancer benefits for firefighters, creating a more robust framework for support and compensation. It seeks to establish a conclusive presumption that any cancer diagnosed in a firefighter will be treated as an occupational cancer, thereby simplifying the claims process for affected individuals. Notably, this presumption will not extend to those hired after July 22, 2020, unless certain conditions are met, reflecting a compromise between ensuring benefits and combating potential abuses of the system.

Summary

Bill S0458 proposes amendments to the existing laws regarding cancer benefits for firefighters in the state. It specifically states that any firefighter, including those employed by the state or municipal fire departments, who suffers from disabling occupational cancer during their service, will be entitled to receive disability benefits. This includes both current and retired firefighters, ensuring that they receive adequate support for their medical conditions derived from their line of work. The bill emphasizes recognizing the severity of occupational hazards that firefighters face and offers stronger legislative protection for them.

Contention

Notable points of contention around S0458 may revolve around the retroactive application of its provisions and its implications for municipal budgets. Critics could argue about the financial burden imposed on state and local governments by expanding benefits without corresponding funding. Additionally, there could be discussions about fairness regarding the exclusion of firefighters hired after the stipulated date from automatic benefits, potentially leading to perceived inequalities among firefighters based on hiring dates.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6179

Requires the Rhode Island housing authority to update the count of affordable housing stock in the town of Tiverton two (2) times per year.

RI H6180

Ensures that minimum egress requirements for conventional subdivisions in Tiverton apply equally to comprehensive permit applications and cannot be waived, modified, or reduced for such applications.

RI H6184

Permits Tiverton to require two parking space for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom low- or moderate-income housing units upon the determination that limited or no local public transportation or off-street parking availability near these units.

RI H6182

Requires any person who applies to rent or purchase a residence located in Town of Tiverton which qualifies as low and moderate income housing, shall require proof of Rhode Island residency or employment by a local, state or federal entity.

RI H6215

Requires the town of Tiverton to require a minimum number of affordable housing units if there is less than ten percent (10%) of affordable housing in the town.

RI H5692

Allows the operation of a home-based business, which meets criteria for home office IRS income tax deduction, without securing approval from the municipality with no storage of chemicals/park heavy equipment/not more than 10% of premises used for parking.

RI H5022

Increases the maximum state and municipal small purchase limits from $10,000 to $25,000 for construction projects and from $5,000 to $10,000 for all other state and municipal purchases.

RI H5371

Allows the towns of Burrillville and Glocester to publish notices in any newspaper located within their municipalities and would also allow publication in other designated digital or print platforms selected by their city or town councils.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.