House Bill No. 979 proposes to amend existing laws regarding survivor benefits for firemen and law enforcement officers in Louisiana. The bill increases the benefit amount paid to the survivors of these first responders from $250,000 to $404,000 in cases where the officer or fireman dies as a result of injuries sustained while performing their official duties or in related activities. This increase applies to surviving spouses, children, or designated beneficiaries, ensuring that the financial support provided to families of fallen first responders is significantly enhanced.

The bill also stipulates that if the deceased is survived by dependent children, an additional $50,000 will be paid for each child. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2026, and the payments will be managed by the state risk manager from the Self-Insurance Fund. This legislative action aims to provide greater financial security to the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities.

Statutes affected:
HB979 Original: 40:1665(C)(1), 40:2(C)(1)
HB979 Engrossed: 40:1665(C)(1), 40:2(C)(1)
HB979 Reengrossed: 40:1665(C)(1), 40:2(C)(1)