§ 2. Purpose. One of the finest traditions of American community life is the service which people render to others without remuneration. Volunteer firefighters have long been in the forefront of this group. In recognition of the unselfish service by these volunteers, government has undertaken to provide for them and their families some measure of protection against loss from death or injuries in line of duty. Over the years there has developed a dual system of benefits when volunteer firefighters are killed or injured. The dual system has caused uncertainty and confusion. This law establishes a new single system of benefits for volunteer firefighters and provides for the administration of such system by the workers' compensation board and the chairman of such board.

It is hereby declared that this chapter is intended to effectuate the objects and purposes of section eighteen of article one of the state constitution and that the relationship between the political subdivision liable for benefits under this chapter and a volunteer firefighter entitled to such benefits is that of employer and employee within the meaning of such provision of the state constitution.