Frequently asked questions regarding the NYS Volunteer Firefighter Enhanced Cancer Disability Benefits Act
Q: What is the purpose of the NYS Cancer Legislation
A: Provides volunteer firefighters with monetary assistances in the event they are diagnosed with a covered cancer. The legislation is presumptive and does not require proof of where the cancer came from.
Q: When does the law go into effect?
A: January 1st, 2019
Q: Is this benefit available to all volunteer firefighters?
A: No. Eligibility for the benefit will be based on the following criteria:
Q: Can a paid firefighter who is also a volunteer collect benefits from the NY Cancer Legislation?
A: No, paid volunteers are not covered under the NY Cancer Legislation.
Q: What kind of cancer is covered?
A: Malignant growth or tumor affecting the lymphatic or hematological systems or digestive, breast, urinary, prostate, neurological, breast or reproductive systems or melanoma.
Q: What are the benefits provided under the legislation?
A: There are three separate, which are independent of each other:
Q: Are the Benefits subject to New York State income tax?
A: No
Q: Can a firefighter have a change in status and still be eligible?
A: Yes, as long as the eligibility criteria has been met.
Q: Is the bill retroactive?
A: No, the bill is not retroactive.
Q: Who is responsible to pay for the product?
A: Any fire district, department or company in NY is required to provide and maintain an enhanced cancer benefit for each eligible volunteer firefighter.
Q: Does McNeil& Co. (ESIP) have a product that is compliant with the law and approved by the state?
A: Yes. Your department, or your ESIP agent, can visit www.esip.com/cancer to receive a quote and bind coverage today.
Q: How do I obtain a quote?
A: McNeil & Co. has created a portal that either fire departments or an authorized McNeil agent can access.