The bill amends existing laws regarding death benefits for certain public employees who are killed in the line of duty. It increases the death benefit payment from $150,000 to $250,000 for designated beneficiaries or survivors of specified public employees, including police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision for state highway employees and establishes a Firefighter Benefit Review Panel to make recommendations on death benefits related to cancer for firefighters. This panel will consist of various stakeholders, including licensed oncologists and firefighters, and will review claims and provide advisory opinions on the higher incidence of cancer among firefighters.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the payment structure for claims, increasing the amount from $75,000 to $125,000 that will be paid by the appropriate state department agency fund account. The changes aim to provide better financial support to the families of public employees who sacrifice their lives in service, reflecting a commitment to honor their contributions and ensure their beneficiaries are adequately compensated.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1293 Original - 1-29-2025 01:20 PM: 21-5-705(a), 21-5-705(c)
Old version HB1293 V2 - 2-3-2025 09:53 AM: 21-5-705(a), 21-5-705(c)
Old version HB1293 V3 - 3-6-2025 10:20 AM: 21-5-705(a), 21-5-705(c)
HB 1293: 21-5-705(a), 21-5-705(c)
Act 414: 21-5-705(a), 21-5-705(c)