State Board of Adjustment, provide death benefit to survivors of volunteer firefighters who die of cancer.

SB 189 would extend death benefits to survivors of volunteer firefighters who die from cancer, closing a gap in current law that only covers paid firefighters. To qualify, the firefighter must have passed a pre-certification cancer-free exam, served at least six years, been actively involved in a recognized fire department, and the department must document exposure to cancer-causing substances during service. The bill presumes work-related cancer if a known carcinogen exposure is linked to the cancer type, shifting the burden to the state to prove otherwise. This policy change, effective October 2025, aligns volunteer firefighter benefits with existing provisions for paid first responders under Alabama law.