Maryland House Bill 347 Expands Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Firefighters with Hypertension
Effective October 1, 2026, Maryland House Bill 347 (HB 347) significantly expands workers’ compensation rights for firefighters diagnosed with hypertension.
The new law, which is just awaiting the Governor’s Signature, removes a major obstacle that previously prevented many active fire service members from qualifying for benefits — the requirement that they miss time from work before filing a claim.
If you are an active firefighter in Maryland, this legislative update may give you new or expanded rights to workers’ compensation coverage.
What Is Maryland House Bill 347?
House Bill 347 updates Maryland’s workers’ compensation law by expanding the legal presumption for hypertension affecting active fire service members.
A legal presumption means the law recognizes hypertension as work-related under certain conditions, making it substantially easier for firefighters to obtain workers’ compensation benefits.
Prior to HB 347, many firefighters were denied claims because they continued working despite their diagnosis. The new law acknowledges the realities of fire service and removes that barrier.
When Does the New Law Take Effect?
The changes created by HB 347 become effective on:
-October 1, 2026
Claims meeting the requirements after this date may qualify under the expanded protections.
Who Qualifies for a Firefighter Hypertension Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Under the updated Maryland law, you may pursue a workers’ compensation claim for hypertension if you:
- Are an active fire service member in Maryland
- Have been employed in fire service for at least two years
- Have been diagnosed with hypertension by a medical provider
- Have taken prescribed hypertension medication for at least 90 days
Importantly, you no longer need to miss work to file a successful claim.
This change makes workers’ compensation coverage far more accessible for active-duty firefighters managing high blood pressure.
Important Warning for Retiring Firefighters
HB 347 applies differently once a firefighter retires.
After retirement, the prior version of Maryland law still applies, meaning:
- A physician must certify that the firefighter is disabled and unable to work due to hypertension before a claim can be filed.
Because of this requirement, firefighters diagnosed with hypertension should strongly consider filing their workers’ compensation claim before leaving active service.
Maryland’s Two-Year Statute of Limitations Still Applies
Even with the expanded protections, deadlines remain critical.
Maryland workers’ compensation law imposes a two-year statute of limitations. The filing period begins once the legal requirements for the claim are satisfied — including diagnosis and treatment.
Waiting too long may result in losing the right to benefits entirely.
If you have hypertension and meet the qualifications, it is important to act promptly.
Why HB 347 Matters for Maryland Firefighters
Firefighters face intense physical and psychological stress that increases cardiovascular risks, including hypertension. House Bill 347 reflects growing recognition of these occupational hazards.
The new law helps firefighters:
- Access medical treatment coverage
- Protect wage and disability benefits
- File claims without leaving active duty
- Secure financial protection for work-related health conditions
Speak with a Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Understanding how HB 347 applies to your situation can be complicated, especially when timing and eligibility requirements affect your rights.
Our firm represents Maryland firefighters and first responders in workers’ compensation claims and can help you:
- Determine eligibility under HB 347
- File your claim correctly and on time
- Protect your benefits under Maryland law
Contact BSG LAW today at 1-800-827-2667 for a free consultation to learn how Maryland’s new hypertension law may affect your workers’ compensation rights.
