This bill aims to enhance public safety by expanding eligibility for survivor benefits for public safety officers who die in the line of duty, particularly due to exposure-related cancers. It introduces new definitions for "carcinogen" and "exposure-related cancer," listing specific types of cancers that qualify under these terms. The bill amends existing statutes to clarify that a public safety officer's death from exposure-related cancer will be presumed to be in the line of duty if certain conditions are met, including the timing of the diagnosis and the nature of the officer's service. Additionally, it establishes criteria for what constitutes "nonroutine strenuous physical activity" and "nonroutine stressful physical activity," which are relevant to determining eligibility for benefits.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the definition of "public safety officer" to include part-time officers and those who have separated from service due to duty-related disabilities. It also allows individuals to file claims for exposure-related cancer deaths that occurred after January 1, 2020, with a three-year window for claims filed after the bill's enactment. The bill ensures that the award amounts for survivor benefits are determined based on available resources if funding is insufficient. Overall, the legislation seeks to provide better support and recognition for public safety officers and their families in the event of duty-related health issues.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 299A.41
1st Engrossment: 299A.41
2nd Engrossment: 299A.41, 299A.45