Peace officer and firefighter duty disability benefits including employer providing of health insurance coverage to peace office time period limitations provision, peace officer or firefighter waiving the right to continued health insurance coverage prohibition provision, and attorney fees limitations provision
Impact
The proposal highlights that employers would be required to provide continued health insurance coverage to injured peace officers and firefighters for a maximum of three years or until the individual reaches the age of 65. However, this coverage requirement ends if the individual waives their right to such coverage as part of a settlement related to their disability claim. This condition underlines the necessity for lawmakers to protect the rights of first responders, reflecting an ongoing commitment to the welfare and support for those who serve in these critical roles.
Summary
S.F. No. 3412 introduces amendments to the benefits available to peace officers and firefighters with disability claims related to their duty. The bill stipulates specific conditions under which these individuals can receive duty disability benefits and clarifies the terms surrounding their health insurance coverage. The amendments focus on employer obligations to provide health insurance, especially for those injured on duty, and the implications of waiving health insurance rights, which could result in loss of disability eligibility.
Contention
While supporters argue that the bill provides essential protections for disabled peace officers and firefighters, critics may express concerns regarding the implications of limiting attorney fees associated with disability claims. Specifically, the bill proposes that attorney fees for claims be capped at 20% of the first $275,000 of the disability benefit, which could put pressure on legal representation for these claimants. By restricting the potential earnings of attorneys, there is a fear that some members may not receive adequate legal support in what is often a complex and contested process.
State requirement to fully fund costs related to the continuation of health insurance coverage for certain disabled or diseased peace officers or firefighters
State required to fully fund costs related to continuation of health insurance coverage for disabled or deceased peace officers or firefighters, and open statutory appropriation provided.
Public Employees Retirement Association statewide volunteer firefighter plan; defined contribution plan added, frequency of funding requirement determinations reduced, firefighters with previous service allowed to request service credit for vesting purposes, and other technical and administrative changes made.