Proposed New Mexico Law Seeks to Reduce Denials for Firefighter Cancer Claims

New Mexico House Bill 128 proposes expanding workers’ compensation for firefighters by creating a standard five-year service requirement to establish a medical presumption that their cancer is work-related.
The bill would add lung, ovarian, and cervical cancers to the list of conditions with automatic coverage, which were previously excluded.
By redefining these illnesses as proximately caused by employment, the legislation aims to shift the burden of proof away from the claimant.
These proposed changes seek to standardize requirements statewide and reduce administrative obstacles that have historically resulted in claim denials.

The Oklahoma House Civil Judiciary Committee unanimously passed House Bill 4260 to expand workers’ compensation protections for first responders.
This legislation establishes a legal presumption that heart attacks or strokes occurring within eight hours of a high-stress event are work-related.
The bill builds upon 2025 reforms that previously granted first responders access to PTSD benefits without requiring a physical injury.
Supporters argue these changes are necessary to provide financial security for personnel facing extreme occupational health risks.

Oregon’s House Bill 4040 aims to streamline workers’ compensation by allowing nurse practitioners and physician assistants to serve as attending physicians beyond the current 180-day limit.
This change is designed to eliminate treatment delays for injured workers, particularly in rural areas where access to traditional doctors is limited.
The legislation also mandates that health plans cover repairs for advanced prosthetic and orthotic devices to ensure workers maintain mobility.
Additionally, the bill expands psilocybin therapy licensing to include physical and occupational therapists as potential recovery options.