Substitute Senate Bill No. 1239, also known as Public Act No. 25-61, aims to enhance support for the families of first responders who are killed in the line of duty by broadening the definition of "first responder" to include emergency medical technicians, firefighters, paramedics, and police officers. The bill establishes the "Fallen Hero Fund," which will provide a lump sum death benefit of $100,000 to the surviving families of these first responders, ensuring that this benefit is in addition to any other compensation they may receive. The Comptroller is required to submit an annual report on the fund's expenditures and balance, and the bill prioritizes grants for dependent children and spouses of the deceased. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to redefine terms related to health care coverage for survivors of first responders. It replaces "police officer" with "first responder" in the context of health care coverage, mandating that nonstate public employers maintain health care coverage for survivors for one year post-death, with an option to renew for up to five years. Employers may require contributions from employees but cannot demand them from those receiving survivor coverage. The bill also establishes a reimbursement mechanism from the Fallen Hero Fund for employers covering these costs and allows certain universities to provide health care coverage for graduate assistants through the partnership plan, ensuring that all expenses are covered without affecting the General Fund.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 3-122a, 3-123aaa, 7-313g
PS Joint Favorable Substitute: 3-122a, 3-123aaa
File No. 425: 3-122a, 3-123aaa
APP Joint Favorable: 3-122a, 3-123aaa
Public Act No. 25-61: 3-122a, 3-123aaa