H.B. No. 4144 introduces a new subchapter to Chapter 607 of the Government Code, specifically aimed at providing supplemental benefits for retired firefighters and peace officers diagnosed with certain diseases or illnesses. The bill defines key terms such as "consumer price index," "firefighter," and "peace officer," and establishes that the benefits apply only to those who retire from departments with at least 50 personnel. It mandates that political subdivisions provide a critical-illness supplemental income benefit or comparable health plan coverage to eligible retirees diagnosed with specified diseases within three years of retirement. The value of this benefit is capped at either the retiree's final yearly salary or $100,000, whichever is lesser.

Additionally, the bill outlines the payment structure for the supplemental income benefit, allowing for either a lump sum or equal payments over three months. It also includes a provision for adjusting the benefit amount based on the consumer price index every ten years. However, the requirement for supplemental benefits does not apply to political subdivisions that already offer comparable health plans to retirees. The changes enacted by this bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to firefighters and peace officers who retire on or after January 1, 2026.

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