Louisiana House Bill HB37

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/18
• Refer: 1/29/18
• Refer: 3/12/18
• Report Pass: 4/13/18
• Refer: 4/16/18
• Engrossed: 4/24/18
• Refer: 4/25/18
• Report Pass: 5/7/18
• Refer: 5/8/18
• Report Pass: 5/10/18
• Enrolled: 5/18/18
• Chaptered: 5/31/18
• Passed: 5/31/18

Caption

Provides for benefits for certain members of the Louisiana State Employees' Retirement System totally and permanently disabled in the line of duty by an intentional act of violence (EN INCREASE APV)

Impact

If enacted, HB 37 would significantly enhance the safety net for law enforcement and corrections officers in Louisiana. Specifically, it guarantees that eligible members who become totally and permanently disabled due to violence while on duty are compensated at a rate that reflects their previous earnings. This represents a shift towards recognizing the unique risks faced by these public servants, especially in a changing environment where violence against law enforcement has become more pronounced.

Summary

House Bill 37 focuses on providing enhanced disability benefits for specific members of the Louisiana State Employees' Retirement System who are permanently injured in the line of duty due to intentional acts of violence. The bill amends existing statutes to ensure that qualifying correction officers, probation or parole officers, and security officers receive adequate financial support if they experience total and permanent disability while performing their duties. This includes a provision allowing them to receive benefits equal to 100% of their average compensation, regardless of years of service, should their disability stem from an intentional violent act.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 37 appears to be supportive among legislators and public safety advocates. Many view the bill as a critical step in acknowledging the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel. However, some concerns were raised regarding the potential financial implications for the Louisiana State Employees' Retirement System and the impact on resource allocation for other state services. Despite these concerns, the bill's advocates emphasize the importance of providing full support for those injured in service to the community.

Contention

A notable point of contention around HB 37 relates to the funding mechanisms required to support the expanded benefits. The bill outlines that the costs, if any, would be covered by additional contributions from employers within the retirement system, particularly those managing plans associated with high-risk occupations. Critics worry about the long-term sustainability of these benefits and how they might affect the financial health of the retirement system as a whole. Balancing adequate support for injured officers with fiscal responsibility is a critical issue that could shape future discussions about public safety funding.