Connecticut House Bill HB06329

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/11
• Refer: 2/9/11

Caption

An Act Concerning The Maintenance Of Health Insurance For Spouses And Dependents Of Certain Deceased Police Officers And Firefighters Who Have Died In The Performance Of Their Duties.

Impact

One significant impact of HB 06329, if enacted, is the financial obligation placed on municipalities to cover these health insurance costs. The implications for local budgets can be substantial, as municipalities will now be required to allocate funds specifically for this purpose. This could potentially lead to advancements in the welfare and support provided to the families of fallen members of the police and fire departments, ensuring that they do not face financial hardships due to the sudden loss of their income provider. Furthermore, the bill could set a precedent for how municipalities address employee benefits in cases of line-of-duty deaths.

Summary

House Bill 06329 seeks to ensure that municipalities in Connecticut are responsible for providing health insurance coverage to the spouses and dependent children of certain deceased police officers and firefighters who have died in the line of duty. The bill stipulates that health insurance coverage will be available to eligible dependents starting from January 1, 2012, thereby aiming to offer continued support to families affected by the loss of these public service members. This legislative move underlines the importance of supporting the families of those who make significant sacrifices in the performance of their duties.

Contention

Discussions around HB 06329 could involve a variety of points of contention, particularly related to funding and resource allocation. While many may support the intention behind the bill, concerns might arise regarding the potential strain on municipal budgets and the prioritization of funds amidst other pressing community needs. Additionally, there may be debates about the long-term sustainability of such benefits and whether municipalities can viably extend these coverages without compromising other essential services or programs. This bill, therefore, not only addresses a significant social issue but also opens the floor for discussions around fiscal responsibility and local governance.