Sponsors (13)
The bill makes it easier and faster for federal fire-protection employees with Parkinson's disease to get benefits, at the cost of potentially higher federal expenditures and pressure to expand presumptive conditions in the future.
Federal fire-protection employees will be presumed to have Parkinson's disease as work-related, making it easier for them to obtain medical benefits, disability compensation, and related support.
Federal agencies and affected workers will face reduced administrative burden and faster claim decisions because the bill shifts the burden of proof away from claimants for Parkinson's disease.
Taxpayers and the federal government may face higher costs for medical care and compensation because expanding presumptions increases benefit outlays.
Federal employees and taxpayers could see long-term growth in obligations if this presumption creates pressure to add other conditions, expanding the scope of presumptive benefits.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Creates a presumption that Parkinson’s disease in federal fire protection employees is proximately caused by their work under 5 U.S.C. § 8143b.
Adds Parkinson’s disease to the list of illnesses that are presumed to be caused by employment in fire protection activities for federal employees covered by 5 U.S.C. § 8143b, creating a legal presumption that Parkinson’s in those workers is work-related. This change makes it easier for affected federal firefighting personnel to qualify for benefits tied to work-related illness under that statute.
Official title: To amend title 5, United States Code, to include Parkinson's disease in the list of illnesses and diseases deemed to be proximately caused by employment in fire protection activities, and for other purposes.
Introduced July 16, 2025 by Val Hoyle · Last progress July 16, 2025