The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current Arizona statutes regarding workers' compensation death benefits, specifically increasing the burial expenses covered from $5,000 to $10,000. This change is reflected in the insertion of new language that modifies the existing statute, which currently states that burial expenses "not to exceed five thousand dollars" will now be "more than $10,000." Additionally, the bill includes various technical changes to the language surrounding the distribution of benefits to surviving spouses, children, and other dependents, ensuring clarity and consistency in the percentages allocated to each category of beneficiaries.

Furthermore, the bill would remove outdated language regarding the maximum amounts for funeral expenses for dependents, increasing the limit from $800 to a more appropriate figure. The overall effect of these updates aims to provide greater financial support to families affected by workplace fatalities, reflecting the rising costs associated with burial and funeral services. The bill is designed to take effect on the general effective date, ensuring that the new provisions are implemented promptly upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 23-1046
Senate Engrossed Version: 23-1046