Removes the definition of "totally and permanently disabled" from the general law affording college tuition paid by the state to the spouse and children of active members of the police force who are killed or disabled during duty.
Impact
The implications of S0782 are significant for state law, as it simplifies the process for families to receive tuition assistance from the state. It aims to ensure that benefits are granted more swiftly and straightforwardly to eligible families. By modifying the definition within the existing law, the bill intends to reduce bureaucratic hurdles that were previously a barrier for those seeking assistance, thereby improving the support system for families of officers affected by duty-related incidents.
Summary
Bill S0782 addresses the support provided to the families of police officers who have died or been totally and permanently disabled in the line of duty. The bill amends existing legislation regarding tuition assistance for the children and spouses of such officers, specifically by removing the definition of 'totally and permanently disabled.' This change is intended to streamline access to benefits by focusing on the circumstances leading to a police officer's death or disability rather than the definition itself.
Contention
There may be points of contention regarding the removal of the definition of 'totally and permanently disabled.' Critics may argue that without a clear definition, there could be varying interpretations and potential disparities in how benefits are applied, leading to confusion or inconsistency in the assistance provided. Supporters likely contend that this approach makes the process less complicated for those already in a challenging situation following the loss or incapacitation of a loved one due to their line of work.
Adds department of corrections' correctional officers to the list of public safety employees that are entitled to their full salary if they are injured and become disabled as a result of performance of their job duties.
Adds department of corrections' correctional officers to the list of public safety employees that are entitled to their full salary if they are injured and become disabled as a result of performance of their job duties.
Increases the killed-in-line-of-duty benefit for active or retired police officer, capitol police officer, correctional officer, firefighter, crash rescue crew person, fire marshal or deputy fire marshal from 40% to 100% of the federal death benefit.
Extends injured-on-duty (IOD) benefits to police officers and firefighters that suffer from diagnosed post-traumatic stress disorders, except under certain conditions.
Extends injured-on-duty (IOD) benefits to police officers and firefighters that suffer from diagnosed post-traumatic stress disorders, except under certain conditions.
Amends 4 sections relating to the workers' compensation benefits dealing with increasing the amount of dependent benefits payable to a totally disabled employee comprising this year's annual omnibus bill.
Amends 4 sections relating to the workers' compensation benefits dealing with increasing the amount of dependent benefits payable to a totally disabled employee comprising this year's annual omnibus bill.