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Panel advances clarifying changes to firefighter cancer benefits law
Summary
The subcommittee favorably reported HB 813, which clarifies eligibility and administrative language in Florida's 2019 firefighter cancer law — including a one‑year death‑benefit window after employment ends — with supporters saying the changes help implementation without expanding benefits.
Representative Boussatti introduced HB 813 as clarifications to Florida’s 2019 firefighter cancer law to ensure consistent application across the state. "It clarifies firefighters have access to the death benefit for 1 year after terminating employment," the sponsor said.
Bernkowski, speaking for the Board of Professional Firefighters, urged support and said the bill "does not expand the eligibility for any benefit. Eligibility remains limited to firefighters with occupational cancer, and it's crafted in a way that benefits both firefighters and our employees and our employers." He emphasized that clarifying the death‑benefit period helps families avoid being forced to stay employed while terminally ill.
There were no committee amendments. Several members — including Representative Rosenwald and the ranking member — praised the measure as modest but important. The committee reported HB 813 favorably by roll call (18 yeas, 0 nays).
Next steps: HB 813 advances from committee to the full House for further consideration.
