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SD 539

An Act providing equity and fairness to POST-certified police officers disabled by cardiac disease

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Brady and 20 co-sponsors

SD 539 - An Act providing equity and fairness to POST-certified police officers disabled by cardiac disease OverviewBill Number: SD 539 Title: An Act providing equity and fairness

House concurred
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Bill Summary · SD 539

SD 539 - An Act providing equity and fairness to POST-certified police officers disabled by cardiac disease

Overview

Bill Number: SD 539
Title: An Act providing equity and fairness to POST-certified police officers disabled by cardiac disease
Status: House concurred
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to address the inequities faced by POST-certified police officers who become disabled due to cardiac disease. Currently, these officers are not eligible for the same disability benefits as those disabled by other work-related injuries. This bill aims to rectify this disparity and ensure fair and equitable treatment for police officers suffering from cardiac-related disabilities.

Key Provisions

  • Expands the definition of "personal injury" under the workers' compensation law to include cardiac disease for POST-certified police officers
  • Establishes a presumption that cardiac disease in POST-certified police officers is work-related, shifting the burden of proof to the employer to disprove the connection
  • Provides for the payment of medical expenses, lost wages, and other benefits to POST-certified police officers disabled by cardiac disease
  • Requires employers to continue providing health insurance coverage for POST-certified police officers disabled by cardiac disease
  • Allows for the retirement of POST-certified police officers disabled by cardiac disease at the same pension rate as those disabled by other work-related injuries

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill directly affects POST-certified police officers who develop cardiac disease as a result of their work. By providing them with the same disability benefits and protections as those with other work-related injuries, it aims to ensure they receive the necessary support and financial security during their recovery and retirement.

The bill also has implications for employers of POST-certified police officers, as they will be responsible for providing the expanded benefits and coverage required by the legislation.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill has been passed by the state legislature and is currently awaiting the governor's signature to become law. If signed, the new provisions would take effect immediately, providing retroactive coverage for eligible police officers who have already been disabled by cardiac disease.

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

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