The bill amends section 112.19 of the Florida Statutes to revise the eligibility criteria for health insurance coverage for law enforcement, correctional, and correctional probation officers who are injured in the line of duty, as well as for their spouses and dependent children. Key changes include the requirement that employers must pay the entire health insurance premium for the injured employee and their family members, with continued coverage for the surviving spouse until remarriage and for dependent children until they reach the age of majority or 25 if they remain dependent. The bill also clarifies that health insurance benefits from other sources will reduce the benefits provided under this section.

Additionally, the bill introduces new language that specifies the conditions under which the injury must occur, stating that it must happen while the officer is in the line of duty or during official training. It also establishes penalties for fraudulent claims related to health insurance benefits, including forfeiture of benefits and reimbursement to the employer. The bill declares that it fulfills an important state interest and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1160 Filed: 112.19
S 1160 c1: 112.19