House Bill No. by Representative Chassion enacts the "MJ 911 Act," which extends health insurance coverage for the families of law enforcement officers and firemen employed in Lafayette Parish who are killed in the line of duty. The bill introduces new provisions under R.S. 40:1665.5 and 1665.6, mandating that employers provide health insurance coverage for the surviving spouse of a deceased officer or fireman for the remainder of their life. Additionally, it requires coverage for the deceased's children, stepchildren, or adopted children until they reach the age of 18, turn 23 while enrolled in school, or are physically or mentally disabled.

The proposed law also stipulates that if health insurance is offered to active members, the coverage for surviving spouses and children must be equal to that provided to active members. Importantly, the bill applies retroactively to January 1, 2017, ensuring that families of officers and firemen who died in the line of duty since that date are eligible for these benefits. This legislation aims to honor the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and firemen while providing necessary support to their families.