This bill aims to amend and update the language in West Virginia Code 15-11-2 regarding the payment of funeral expenses for law enforcement, safety, and emergency workers who die in the line of duty. The proposed changes include replacing the term "killed" with "who dies" to ensure consistency with other state laws. Additionally, the bill specifies that the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security will direct payments of up to $8,000 for reasonable funeral expenses, including burial costs, for those who die as a proximate result of their official duties. It also clarifies that funds will not be expended for expenses covered by other benefit programs and ensures that at least $8,000 is available for funeral costs if other funds are insufficient.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the definition of "law-enforcement, safety, or emergency worker" to include various categories of personnel, such as law enforcement officers, correctional employees, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, and probation officers. The changes aim to provide clearer guidelines for the eligibility of funeral expense payments and to streamline the process for requesting these funds. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the support provided to the families of first responders who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-11-2