Connecticut lawmakers to consider cancer presumption for firefighters

Lawmakers in Connecticut will be considering a cancer presumption bill that would apply to firefighters suffering from several different types of cancer.

S.B. 937, introduced Thursday, states that the presumption would apply to “any condition of cancer affecting the brain, skin, skeletal system, digestive system, endocrine system, respiratory system, lymphatic system, reproductive system, urinary system or hematological system that results in the death or temporary or permanent total or partial disability of such firefighter.” 

The presumption would be rebuttable under certain conditions, including if the firefighter is a smoker or it is proven that the firefighter failed to use respiratory protection. Also, the presumption would be rebuttable if the firefighter presents evidence of cancer in a pre-employment physical or if the firefighter fails to submit to annual physical examinations.