Nevada Firefighters’ Cancer Screening Program – SB 170
Nevada’s SB 170 expands protections for career and volunteer firefighters by requiring annual cancer screenings linked to occupational insurance, with the law set to take effect July 1, 2026.
Nevada Firefighters’ Cancer Screening Program (SB 170, 2025): A Guide for Fire Department Leadership
Historically, Nevada has prided itself on having one of the more robust firefighter cancer presumption laws under NRS 617.453, which lists over 25 cancer types and links them to known carcinogens. SB 170 builds on that foundation by adding proactive measures: annual, employer-paid cancer screenings and tighter standards for physical exams. The goal is early detection, better health outcomes, and clarity in claims administration under Nevada’s industrial insurance system.
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Eligibility and Coverage
Under SB 170, the screening mandate and coverage apply to firefighters who are not employed by the State’s Executive Department and volunteer firefighters. The law does not expand coverage to executive-branch firefighting staff.
Employers of covered firefighters are required to pay for all mandated cancer screenings. Because the screenings are tied to industrial insurance for occupational cancer, eligible employees who later develop a presumptive cancer may seek compensation under the statutory framework in NRS 617.453.
Retirees who developed cancer or file claims after retirement can access medical benefits only (not disability compensation), consistent with limitations in existing law.
Screening Details and Frequency
SB 170 mandates that a firefighter or volunteer firefighter submit to a cancer screening upon employment (if provided by employer), upon commencement of coverage, and annually thereafter.
The law specifies a slate of required screening components. Among them:
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Skin examination (full-body)
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Mammogram for women age 40+
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Pap smear for all women
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Bladder urine test (hematuria)
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Thyroid exam (palpable nodules)
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Testicular exam for men
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Fecal occult blood test
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Colonoscopy for individuals age 45+ if not done in last 10 years
Additionally, laboratory tests such as glucose, ketones, protein, bilirubin, and advanced cancer-signal blood tests are required.
Physical examinations are also upgraded: the statute mandates chest X-rays (interpreted by radiologists), cardiovascular examinations including resting ECGs, stress ECGs or coronary calcium scoring for those 40+, vision screening, and other assessments. These exams must be conducted by a licensed physician or advanced practice nurse familiar with the demands of firefighting.
Under privacy rules, results from these screenings and exams can only be shared with certain parties (the examining physician, the employee, a risk/human-resources officer, and, if a claim is filed, the insurer) and may only be used for compliance or reporting under NRS chapters 617.453, 617.455, or 617.457.
Filing a Claim and Compensation
To file a claim under the occupational cancer presumption, employees or their dependents must show (1) at least 5 years of firefighting service or volunteer service under NRS 617.453 and (2) exposure to a known or reasonably anticipated carcinogen associated with a disabling cancer. The statute includes a long list of such cancers and associated substances (e.g. diesel exhaust, formaldehyde, PCBs, asbestos, etc.).
If a claimant meets those criteria, the law establishes a rebuttable presumption that the cancer arose out of and in course of employment during active service or within prescribed post-retirement periods.
When a claim is approved, compensation may include:
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Full reimbursement for medical treatments, surgeries, and hospitalizations (per fee schedules under NRS 616C)
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Disability compensation under chapters 616A–616D for active firefighters
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For retirees, medical benefits only (disability payments do not apply)
The claimant or insurer may present evidence to rebut the presumption (i.e., to show the cancer did not arise from firefighting). The statute also allows that the listed carcinogens/cancers are not exhaustive; additional scientific evidence may be used.
How to Apply and Participate
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Employer Notification and Coordination
Fire departments or agencies must confirm that they are subject to SB 170 (i.e. not in the Executive Department) and plan how to schedule, administer, and pay for screenings and exams beginning July 1, 2026. -
Enroll Covered Employees
Each firefighter (or volunteer) should be enrolled for cancer screening coverage at the commencement of coverage (or employment if employer elects) and scheduled for the first round of required exams. -
Work with Qualified Providers
Screenings and physical exams must be conducted by medical professionals (physicians or APRNs) with knowledge of firefighter occupational demands. Employers must secure these providers. -
Conduct Screenings and Exams
Employees will undergo the screenings and exams as required by statute: upon start, then annually. Employers must document compliance and expense in preparation for possible claims. -
Maintain Privacy & Reporting
Employers, employees, and providers must adhere to privacy rules under HIPAA and NRS, ensuring test results are only shared with authorized individuals and used appropriately.
The Importance of Cancer Prevention in Nevada’s Fire Service
SB 170 marks a significant advancement for firefighter occupational health in Nevada. By combining the state’s robust cancer presumption law with mandatory, employer-paid annual screenings, it shifts the focus from reactive claims to proactive detection. Firefighters and volunteer responders will gain earlier access to diagnosis and care, while employers and insurers must adapt systems and procedures to fulfill the statute’s requirements. As the July 1, 2026 implementation date approaches, fire departments, unions, medical providers, and policy makers must collaborate to bring SB 170 to life—protecting those who protect our communities.
Ready to learn more? Schedule your program overview today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nevada Senate Bill 170 (SB 170)?
SB 170 is a law passed in 2025 that requires annual, employer-funded cancer screenings for career and volunteer firefighters in Nevada. It strengthens existing cancer presumption laws by adding proactive screening and early detection measures.
When does SB 170 take effect?
The law was signed by Governor Lombardo in July 2025 and will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Who is covered under SB 170?
The law covers:
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Career firefighters (except state executive department employees)
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Volunteer firefighters
What screenings are included?
Comprehensive annual exams will include:
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Full-body skin cancer check
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Mammogram (for women 40+)
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Pap smear (for women)
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Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test (for men)
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Thyroid and testicular exams
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Urinalysis and fecal occult blood testing
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Colonoscopy for those age 45+
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Cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological, and musculoskeletal evaluations
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Chest X-ray and advanced cardiac testing for firefighters age 40+
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Complete blood analysis
Who pays for the screenings?
All costs are covered by the employer.
How often are screenings required?
Screenings must occur:
- At the start of coverage (mandatory)
- Annually during employment (mandatory)
How does SB 170 interact with existing cancer presumption laws?
Nevada already recognizes more than 25 types of cancers as presumptively linked to firefighting exposures. SB 170 adds an annual screening requirement, making Nevada’s protections among the strongest in the nation.
What compensation is available if a firefighter is diagnosed with cancer?
Coverage includes:
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Full medical reimbursement (treatment, surgery, hospitalization)
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Disability compensation for active firefighters under Nevada’s industrial insurance system
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Retirees receive medical benefits only (no disability compensation)
Are volunteer firefighters eligible for the same benefits?
Yes. Both career and volunteer firefighters are included in presumption coverage and annual screening requirements.
Why is SB 170 significant?
SB 170 makes Nevada one of the few states to require preventive cancer screenings, not just compensation after diagnosis. This proactive approach supports firefighter health, improves early detection, and reinforces Nevada’s leadership in firefighter protections.
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