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.
Summary
H.R. 4453 aims to amend Title 5 of the United States Code to include Parkinson's disease in the list of illnesses and diseases presumed to be proximately caused by employment in fire protection activities. This would provide federal benefits to firefighters diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce.
The amendment specifically targets section 8143b(b) of Title 5, adding Parkinson's disease to the list of covered conditions.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 4453 would expand federal benefits eligibility for firefighters suffering from Parkinson's disease. This could lead to increased claims and associated costs.
It would also acknowledge the occupational hazards faced by firefighters and provide them with additional support.
This bill could set a precedent for including other occupational illnesses under similar presumptions.
Potential Benefits
- Provides financial and medical support to firefighters diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
- Acknowledges the link between firefighting and Parkinson's disease.
- May improve the quality of life for affected firefighters and their families.
- Could encourage more individuals to enter and remain in the firefighting profession.
- May lead to further research into the occupational hazards faced by firefighters.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs to the federal government due to additional benefits claims.
- Potential for fraudulent claims.
- May create pressure to include other diseases or occupations under similar presumptions, further increasing costs.
- Could be difficult to definitively prove the causal link between firefighting and Parkinson's disease in individual cases.
- May lead to complex legal challenges regarding eligibility and causation.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to provide for the general welfare of the United States, which can include providing benefits to specific groups, such as firefighters, who face unique occupational hazards.
There are no apparent infringements on individual liberties or rights. The bill falls within the legislative powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).