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HB 5403

AN ACT CONCERNING HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR SURVIVORS OF UNPAID VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS AND STATE MARSHALS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Canino and 13 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill would provide health insurance coverage to families of deceased unpaid volunteer firefighters, correction officers, and state marshals to support surviving dependents.

FILE NO. 266
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Bill Summary · HB 5403

Legislative bill overview

HB 5403 would extend health insurance coverage to survivors of unpaid volunteer firefighters, correction officers, and state marshals in Connecticut. The bill addresses a gap in current benefits by providing continued health insurance access to family members of these public safety workers who die in service or from service-related causes.

Why is this important

Unpaid volunteer emergency responders sacrifice their safety without the same comprehensive benefits as paid employees. This bill recognizes that families left behind face financial hardship when losing both a provider and their health coverage simultaneously, particularly impactful in rural Connecticut where volunteer services are essential to emergency response infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and cost: Defining which deaths qualify as "service-related" and estimating the fiscal impact on state budgets and insurance programs could be disputed
  • Equity concerns: Questions about why this benefit applies only to these specific professions versus other dangerous occupations or volunteer roles
  • Program mechanics: Whether coverage extends to spouses only or includes dependent children, and for how long, may generate debate about affordability and administration

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

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