Extends accidental death benefit for survivors of certain SPRS retirees.
Impact
One notable change introduced by S3607 is the removal of the requirement for a written and sworn statement previously needed when applying for accidental death benefits. This adjustment is expected to simplify the process for survivors, allowing them to claim the benefits without undergoing a burdensome bureaucratic hurdle. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that applications can be submitted within a two-year window following the date of death of the retiree or from the bill's effective date, allowing for greater flexibility for the claimants.
Summary
Senate Bill S3607 aims to extend the accidental death benefits for the survivors of certain retirees from the State Police Retirement System (SPRS). The bill removes the previous restriction that limited eligibility to only those whose retired member died before July 8, 2019. Instead, it allows all surviving spouses or children of qualifying retirees, regardless of the death date, to access these benefits. The legislation is particularly significant for those retirees who received an accidental disability retirement, an ordinary disability retirement, or a service retirement.
Contention
Despite its positive reception among many stakeholders, concerns may arise regarding the potential financial implications for the state's pension system, particularly if the number of eligible applicants increases significantly. Additionally, ensuring the integrity and proper evaluation of claims is essential to prevent potential fraud, especially given the broadening of eligibility criteria. However, the bill also allows the World Trade Center Health Program to determine qualifying conditions related to the deceased's health, which could empower applicants by providing them a clear pathway to benefits based on past service during critical incidents.
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The bill also mandates that the board of trustees notify all affected surviving spouses and children about these changes through certified mail within 60 days after the bill's effective date. This requirement emphasizes the importance of transparency and communication in administering the benefits, further supporting the survivors' right to understand and access the benefits available to them.
Provides for filing extension and alternate medical documentation in PFRS, SPRS, or PERS for accidental disability retirement in certain circumstances; extends accidental death benefit for survivors of certain SPRS retirees.
Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.
Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.
Provides for filing extension and alternate medical documentation in PFRS, SPRS, or PERS for accidental disability retirement in certain circumstances; extends accidental death benefit for survivors of certain SPRS retirees.
Provides certain health care benefits to surviving dependents of accidental disability retiree who participated in 9/11 WTC rescue, recovery, or cleanup operations; clarifies eligibility criteria for recalculation of retirement allowance for such participation.
Provides certain health care benefits to surviving dependents of accidental disability retiree who participated in 9/11 WTC rescue, recovery, or cleanup operations; clarifies eligibility criteria for recalculation of retirement allowance for such participation.