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HB 1521

An Act amending the act of June 28, 1935 (P.L.477, No.193), referred to as the Enforcement Officer Disability Benefits Law, further providing for disability benefits and for definitions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Brennan and 12 co-sponsors

HB 1521 modifies Pennsylvania's 1935 law governing disability benefits and definitions for enforcement officers, with changes referred to Labor & Industry Committee for review.

Referred to Labor & Industry
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Bill Summary · HB 1521

Legislative bill overview

HB 1521 amends Pennsylvania's Enforcement Officer Disability Benefits Law (originally enacted in 1935) to modify how disability benefits are calculated and/or defined for law enforcement and related officers. The bill updates definitions and benefit provisions within this longstanding workers' compensation framework for public safety personnel.

Why is this important

Enforcement officers rely on disability benefits as a safety net if they sustain work-related injuries that prevent them from performing their duties. Changes to how these benefits are calculated or defined directly affect the financial security of current and retired officers and their families, as well as the costs borne by municipalities and the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of amendments unclear – Without the specific text, it's unknown whether changes expand or restrict eligibility, increase or decrease benefit amounts, or modify which injuries qualify
  • Cost implications – Expanding benefits increases municipal and state budget obligations; restricting benefits may create political pushback from officer advocacy groups
  • Retroactivity questions – Whether amendments apply only prospectively or to existing claims could significantly affect implementation and fairness debates

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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