Bill No. 6, which amends the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Act, received assent on November 5 in the Yukon Legislative Assembly. These amendments recognize the occupational hazards wildland forest firefighters face keeping Yukon communities safe and fulfill a key mandate commitment of the Yukon government.
Under the amended legislation, wildland forest firefighters gain the same presumptive cancer coverage applicable to full-time, part-time and volunteer firefighters.
This government remains committed to partnering with firefighters and working alongside affected unions to review firefighter cancer presumptions, including applicable cancers and service requirements.
Wildland firefighters dedicate their careers to keep our families, property and communities safe. With the passage of Bill No. 6, the Yukon sends a powerful message: we appreciate all you do for our territory and we will stand by you in your time of need.
Wildland firefighters protect Yukoners and our communities every time put on their gear. The amendments ensure that when they step up for us, the workers’ compensation system steps up for them.
The government made a change that will have a positive impact on wildland forest firefighters for years to come. Now, all firefighters have equal access to resources if they receive a cancer diagnosis.
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Bill No. 6, An Act to Amend the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Act, was tabled on October 6, 2026.
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The Workers’ Safety and Compensation Act firefighter cancer presumption was first implemented in 2011, with subsequent updates in 2014 and 2022.
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Other work-related health conditions remain eligible for compensation through the standard claims process.
Tim Kucharuk
Press secretary, Cabinet Communications
867-335-2419
[email protected]
Taryn Brickner
Communications, Workers’ Safety and Compensation Board
867-332-1462
[email protected]