The proposed bill, Substitute Bill No. 5274, aims to amend existing statutes regarding state marshals' eligibility for workers' compensation and health insurance while performing their duties. Specifically, it replaces references to "high sheriff, chief deputy sheriff, deputy sheriff or special deputy sheriff" with "state marshal" in Section 5-142a, ensuring that state marshals who suffer death, disability, or injury while on duty are presumed to be state employees and compensated accordingly. Additionally, Section 31-310a is amended to include state marshals in the calculation of average weekly wages for compensation purposes, ensuring that their compensation is not prorated due to other employment.

Furthermore, the bill modifies Section 5-259 to allow state marshals, regardless of their average weekly hours, to participate in health insurance plans procured by the Comptroller, with the requirement that they pay the full cost of coverage. It establishes specific criteria for state marshals working at least twenty hours per week to qualify for these plans, including active engagement in certain legal processes and certification of their status. The bill also introduces a provision requiring state marshals to submit proof of benefits received under specific chapters to ensure compliance with health insurance eligibility. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
LAB Joint Favorable Substitute: 5-142a, 31-310a
File No. 189: 5-142a, 31-310a
APP Joint Favorable: 5-142a, 31-310a