The bill amends and reenacts section 15-11-2 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, to align the language regarding survivor benefit payments for first responders with existing statutes. Key modifications include changing the terminology from "killed" to "who dies" in reference to law enforcement, safety, and emergency workers who die in the line of duty. Additionally, the bill updates the effective date for these provisions to January 1, 2025, and changes the overseeing authority from the Secretary of Military Affairs and Public Safety to the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the conditions under which funeral expenses, up to $8,000, will be paid for these workers, ensuring that funds are available to cover reasonable funeral expenses even if other sources provide less than this amount. It also specifies that the payment request must be certified by the employer or head of a volunteer organization, confirming that the individual died as a proximate result of their official duties. The definition of "law-enforcement, safety, or emergency worker" is also detailed, encompassing various roles including law enforcement officers, correctional employees, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, and probation officers.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-11-2, 5H-1-2
Committee Substitute: 15-11-2, 5H-1-2
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 15-11-2, 5H-1-2