New York Assembly Bill A09655

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/26
• Refer: 1/21/26
• Report Pass: 1/28/26
• Refer: 1/28/26

Caption

Provides that where any condition of impairment of health caused by Parkinson's disease, resulting in total or partial disability or death to a volunteer firefighter, where such volunteer firefighter successfully passed a physical examination on entry into such service or subsequent thereto, which examination failed to reveal any evidence of such condition, shall be presumptive evidence that such disability or death was caused by the natural and proximate result of an accident, not caused by such firefighter's own negligence; and was incurred in the performance and discharge of duty, unless the contrary be proven by competent evidence.

Note

The bill has a defined expiration date, set to repeal on June 30, 2030, which may indicate an experimental approach to evaluating the long-term impact of these changes on the volunteer firefighting community and the state's benefit systems.

Impact

If enacted, A09655 will create a significant shift in the treatment of disability claims related to volunteer firefighters suffering from Parkinson's disease. By establishing this presumption, the bill intends to simplify the process for obtaining benefits for those affected. It acknowledges the risks that firefighters face, aiming to assure that their service-related health issues do not go unrecognized. This legislative change is particularly important as it can incentivize people to serve in volunteer roles, knowing they have better protections if health issues arise.

Summary

Bill A09655 proposes an amendment to the volunteer firefighters' benefit law, introducing a presumption that any health impairment caused by Parkinson's disease will be deemed to have resulted from the active duties of a volunteer firefighter. This provision applies to volunteer firefighters who have passed a physical examination that does not reveal their Parkinson's condition prior to or during their service. The bill aims to support firefighters in securing disability or death benefits without the burden of proving the connection to their duties unless contradicted by substantial evidence.

Contention

Despite its intent to support firefighters, the bill may face opposition due to concerns about potential abuse of the presumption clause. Critics might argue that it could lead to fraudulent claims or strain on state resources allocated for disability benefits. Furthermore, opponents may call for more thorough criteria and proof to ensure the legitimacy of claims made under this new presumption. Therefore, a balance will need to be established between ensuring benefits are accessible while preventing misuse.