Michigan House Bill HB4779

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/15/23
• Refer: 6/15/23

Caption

Public employees and officers: compensation and benefits; certain references in public act relating to disability compensation for peace officer; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 2 of 1937 PA 329 (MCL 419.102). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23

Impact

The bill proposes that the surviving spouse or dependents of a peace officer killed on duty would receive financial support amounting to $1,000 to assist with last sickness and burial expenses, along with weekly payments of $18, until a cumulative total of $5,000 is reached. If no spouse or dependents exist, the officer's estate would similarly qualify for the $1,000 benefit. This financial support aims to alleviate some of the burdens faced by families during tragic circumstances, emphasizing the state's commitment to its law enforcement personnel.

Summary

House Bill 4779 seeks to amend existing laws that provide compensation for certain peace officers who are killed or injured in the line of duty. Specifically, it aims to revise the language in 1937 PA 329 to ensure that the definitions for 'surviving spouse' and 'dependent' accommodate current societal norms, thereby making the terms gender-neutral. This bill reflects a recognition of the changing dynamics within families, ensuring that benefits are distributed in a manner consistent with contemporary definitions of kinship and dependency.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 4779 is its tie to potential amendments in the state constitution. The bill stipulates that its provisions would only take effect if complementary resolutions also pass in the legislature. This introduces a layer of complexity regarding the timing and implementation of the bill's benefits, as well as potential disagreements among lawmakers on the need for such constitutional amendments related to public employee compensation. Stakeholders may have differing views on the obligations of the state to fund such benefits amidst broader budgetary considerations.