Substitute Senate Bill No. 1443 aims to enhance support for the families of correction officers and various investigators killed in the line of duty by establishing the "Fallen Officer and Investigator Fund." This fund will provide a lump sum death benefit of $100,000 to the surviving family members, ensuring that these payments are exempt from state income tax and not reduced by other benefits. The bill also mandates that the State Comptroller secure group hospitalization and medical insurance for the surviving spouses and dependent children of these officers and investigators, effective July 1, 2025. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the Comptroller to report annually on fund expenditures and balances, with a focus on prioritizing dependent children and spouses.

Furthermore, the bill proposes amendments to existing tax laws, including the repeal and substitution of language in section 12-701 of the general statutes, which affects the computation of Connecticut adjusted gross income. It introduces new provisions for the treatment of various types of income, such as Social Security benefits and pension income, while also allowing for deductions related to organ donation expenses and financial assistance from the Crumbling Foundations Assistance Fund. The bill aims to provide tax relief to individuals with lower incomes and improve insurance coverage for specific public service roles, reflecting a commitment to support those who serve the community.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 12-701
JUD Joint Favorable: 12-701
File No. 775: 12-701