Uniformed Firefighters Ass'n v. Beekman

OPINION OF THE COURT

Wachtler, J.

The question in these cases is whether section 207-k of the General Municipal Law, often called the “heart bill”, establishes a presumption that a disabling or fatal heart condition suffered by a New York City policeman or fireman was accidentally sustained as a result of his employment which, if not rebutted by contrary proof, entitles the employee or his family to accidental, line-of-duty pension or death benefits.

The courts below held that the statute establishes such a presumption. The city and its representatives appeal. They concede that the statute…