Law Enforcement Officers Death Benefits Trust Fund; include presumption of eligibility for officers with COVID-19.
Impact
The bill's passage will expand the definitions and eligibility criteria for death benefits under the Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters' Death Benefits Trust Fund in Mississippi. Primarily, it allows families of covered individuals to receive a death benefit of $100,000 should the individual die from COVID-19 while in the line of duty. Furthermore, the bill establishes a fund that is intended to be used for such payments, thereby solidifying financial support for the families of fallen officers and firefighters during a public health crisis.
Summary
Senate Bill 2782 aims to amend Section 45-2-1 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to redefine 'cause of death' in the context of the Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters' Death Benefits Trust Fund. A significant aspect of this bill is the inclusion of COVID-19 under the presumption of eligibility for death benefits, aligning with the provisions set forth in the Safeguarding America's First Responders Act. This adjustment seeks to ensure that law enforcement officers and firefighters who succumb to COVID-19 while performing their duties are eligible for financial compensation, recognizing the threats posed by the pandemic to these essential workers.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 2782 appears to be largely positive among supporters who advocate for recognizing the sacrifices made by law enforcement and fire personnel, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The recognition of COVID-19 in benefit allocations is seen as a necessary step to provide peace of mind and support for the families affected by the virus. However, there may be some contention regarding the overall funding of such benefits, especially in light of budgetary constraints faced by the state.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise around the funding and sustainability of the Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Death Benefits Trust Fund, especially as the state allocates resources amid various budgetary pressures. The inclusion of COVID-19 as a covered cause of death could raise concerns regarding the broader implications of benefit distribution and the potential for increased claims. Some may question whether the criteria established adequately address all future scenarios where first responders might face health vulnerabilities.
Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Death Benefits Trust Fund; expand to include health care employees who die of COVID and public safety officers from COVID.
School resource officers; include in the definition of "law enforcement officer" for purposes of LEO and Firefighters Death Benefits Trust Fund benefits.