Public employees and officers: compensation and benefits; certain references in public act relating to disability compensation for firefighters; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 3 of 1942 (1st Ex Sess) PA 9 (MCL 419.203). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Impact
The proposed amendments would have a significant effect on the existing framework of firefighter compensation under Public Act 9 of 1942. In particular, the bill modifies section 3 of this act to ensure that surviving spouses and dependents of firefighters killed while responding to incidents outside their jurisdiction receive burial expense compensation, along with continued disability benefits as provisioned under the Worker’s Disability Compensation Act. This could enhance financial protections for families affected by the loss of a firefighter.
Summary
House Bill 4780 amends existing legislation that governs the compensation and benefits available to firefighters injured in the line of duty. Specifically, this bill seeks to adjust the language within the law to make it gender neutral, promoting inclusivity for all genders in the context of firefighter benefits. By addressing the gendered language historically prevalent in legal texts, HB4780 aims to align with contemporary values regarding equality and recognition of women's roles in the firefighting profession.
Contention
While the bill presents an opportunity for progress in terms of gender inclusivity, discussions have emerged around the potential implications of these amendments on funding allocations to public safety resources. Some stakeholders are concerned that changing language alone may not adequately address the underlying issues faced by firefighters and their families, such as the need for improved funding for mental health services and better overall benefits. Thus, while HB4780 is a step forward, it opens the door for further debate on the adequacy of provisions available to first responders.
Same As
Civil rights: sexual orientation discrimination; certain references to marriage; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 1, art. X & repeals sec. 25, art. I of the state constitution.
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
Public employees and officers: compensation and benefits; certain references in the public safety officers benefit act; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 2 of 2004 PA 46 (MCL 28.632). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Worker's compensation: other; certain references in the worker's compensation act; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 118, 335 & 353 of 1969 PA 317 (MCL 418.118 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Public employees and officers: compensation and benefits; certain references in the public safety officers benefit act; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 2 of 2004 PA 46 (MCL 28.632). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'25
Veterans: other; certain references in the veterans' military pay act; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 2, 4, 4a & 5 of 1947 PA 12 (MCL 35.922 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Worker's compensation: other; certain references in the worker's compensation act; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 118, 335 & 353 of 1969 PA 317 (MCL 418.118 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'25
Veterans: other; certain references in the funeral expenses of veterans statute; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 2 & 3 of 1911 PA 235 (MCL 35.802 & 35.803). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Insurance: other; certain references in the insurance code; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 2207, 2209, 3110 & 3402 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.2207 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Crimes: other; certain references in the penal code; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 30, 90, 166 & 335 of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.30 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Civil procedure: other; certain references in the revised judicature act; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 1410, 2005, 2162, 2807, 3344, 5451, 6023a & 6131 of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.1410 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23