New Mexico House Bill HB277

New Mexico 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/23
• Report Pass: 2/17/23
• Report Pass: 2/27/23
• Engrossed: 3/2/23
• Report Pass: 3/9/23

Caption

First Responder Survivor Benefits

Impact

By amending sections of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated (NMSA), House Bill 277 aligns the state laws regarding survivor benefits more closely with the realities faced by families of first responders. The increased benefits are likely to have a positive impact on the financial security of these families, assisting them in coping with the economic burdens that can arise from the loss of their loved ones in the line of duty. This legislation could be viewed as a critical step in recognizing and rewarding the sacrifices made by these essential workers while also encouraging public safety amid increasing concerns for their safety and well-being.

Summary

House Bill 277 seeks to significantly enhance the supplemental death benefits provided to the surviving spouses and children of first responders, specifically firefighters, peace officers, New Mexico Mounted Patrol members, and reserve police officers who are killed in the line of duty. The bill proposes to increase the supplemental death benefit from $250,000 to $1,000,000, thereby offering greater financial support to families during extraordinarily difficult times. This legislative change aims to improve the welfare of surviving family members of individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding the bill may arise from discussions about funding sources for these increased benefits and potential implications on state budgets. Stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies and firefighter associations, are likely to support the bill, advocating for the necessity of adequate compensation for families. However, there may be concern from budgetary committees or fiscal conservatives who might question the sustainability of funding such an increase in benefits. The balance between honoring first responders and ensuring fiscal responsibility will be an ongoing point of debate within the state legislature.