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SB 828

AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- RELIEF OF INJURED AND DECEASED FIRE FIGHTERS AND POLICE OFFICERS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Frank Ciccone and 2 co-sponsors

Rhode Island establishes a state relief fund to provide financial assistance to towns and cities supporting injured or deceased firefighters and police officers.

07/03/2025 Effective without Governor's signature
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 828

Legislative bill overview

SB 828 establishes a state relief fund to provide financial assistance to Rhode Island municipalities for caring for injured or deceased firefighters and police officers. The bill authorizes towns and cities to access state funding to support affected officers and their families, reducing the burden on local budgets.

Why is this important

First responders face significant occupational hazards, and unexpected injuries or deaths can create severe financial hardship for families while straining municipal budgets. This bill creates a mechanism for state-level support, ensuring more consistent and adequate assistance regardless of a municipality's fiscal capacity. It recognizes public safety workers as state assets worthy of coordinated support.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source unclear: The bill's legislative record doesn't specify how the relief fund will be financed or what budget allocation supports it
  • Eligibility criteria: Without seeing the full text, it's unclear what injuries/deaths qualify, what income limits apply to recipients, or whether benefits differ by circumstance
  • Municipal discretion vs. standardization: The phrase "relief of" could mean discretionary assistance, potentially creating inconsistent support across different communities

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

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