This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to enhance the disability benefits for peace officers and firefighters who are injured in the line of duty. It establishes that employers must provide health insurance coverage for these individuals and their dependents for a period of three years or until the individual reaches the age of 65, whichever comes first. Additionally, it prohibits peace officers and firefighters from waiving their right to continued health insurance coverage as part of any settlement related to their duty disability benefits. If they do waive this right, they risk losing their eligibility for the benefits.

The bill also introduces limitations on attorney fees associated with claims for duty disability benefits. Specifically, it allows legal fees to be capped at 20 percent of the first $275,000 of the awarded benefit without requiring court approval. It mandates that any retainer agreements between members and their attorneys must disclose this fee limitation, and attorneys cannot demand payment until the claim is resolved. These provisions aim to protect the financial interests of peace officers and firefighters while ensuring they receive the necessary support during their recovery from duty-related injuries.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 299A.465, 352B.101, 353.031