This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 299A.41, subdivision 4, to expand the definition of "public safety officer" to include part-time, paid on-call, and volunteer firefighters. The current law, which previously only recognized full-time firefighters, is updated to ensure that these additional categories of firefighters are eligible for service line of duty death benefits. The bill specifies that these firefighters must be engaged in nonroutine stressful or strenuous physical activities, including training exercises, to qualify for the benefits.

In addition to the inclusion of various firefighter classifications, the bill clarifies the definitions of "volunteer firefighter," "paid on-call firefighter," "part-time firefighter," and "full-time firefighter" by referencing section 424A.001. It also specifies that the term "nonroutine stressful or strenuous physical" excludes clerical, administrative, or nonmanual actions, thereby focusing the benefits on those engaged in physically demanding duties. Overall, this legislation aims to enhance support for a broader range of individuals serving in critical public safety roles.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 299A.41