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SB 1239

AN ACT CONCERNING THE FALLEN HERO FUND AND PROVIDING HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE TO SURVIVORS OF FIRST RESPONDERS WHO ARE KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Ackert and 42 co-sponsors

Connecticut law now provides health insurance coverage to families of first responders killed in the line of duty through the Fallen Hero Fund.

SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
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Bill Summary · SB 1239

Legislative bill overview

SB 1239 expands Connecticut's Fallen Hero Fund to provide health insurance coverage to the surviving families of first responders (police, firefighters, EMTs) who are killed in the line of duty. The bill creates a mechanism for these survivors to access health benefits, addressing a gap in financial support for families who lose their primary wage earners in service-related deaths.

Why is this important

First responder families face immediate financial hardship when a member is killed in the line of duty, including loss of income and health insurance access. This bill addresses a specific vulnerability by ensuring survivors maintain health coverage during a critical period, potentially reducing financial instability and healthcare gaps for grieving families. The measure recognizes the sacrifice of first responders while providing tangible support to those left behind.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: The bill's fiscal impact and how the state will fund ongoing health insurance premiums for potentially multiple survivors per incident is unclear from the summary
  • Coverage scope and duration: Questions about eligibility parameters (spouse only, dependent children, how long coverage lasts) and whether benefits extend to all family members or are limited
  • Definition of "line of duty": Disputes may arise over which deaths qualify—whether this includes accidents, illnesses contracted during service, or only direct violence/traumatic incidents

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

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