The "Honor Our First Responders Act" aims to provide state-funded health insurance coverage for the surviving spouses and dependent children of first responders who are killed in the line of duty. The bill defines eligible first responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel, and outlines the criteria for a line-of-duty death. Under the proposed legislation, the surviving family members would receive health insurance coverage for three years at no cost to them or their employing agencies, with the state assuming full responsibility for the premium costs.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the health insurance coverage must be equivalent to that provided to active members of the State Health Plan and administered by the Public Employee Benefit Authority. After the three-year period, surviving spouses may opt to continue their health insurance coverage at the same premium rate as non-active participants, without state subsidy. The General Assembly is tasked with appropriating sufficient funds annually to cover the costs associated with this coverage. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/28/2026: 1-11-735
Latest Version: 1-11-735