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SD 304

An Act relative to death benefits to surviving spouses of call and volunteer firefighters

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge

Massachusetts extends death benefits to surviving spouses of volunteer and call firefighters who die serving in the line of duty, matching protections for career firefighter families.

House concurred
0
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Bill Summary · SD 304

Legislative bill overview

SD 304 provides death benefits to surviving spouses of call and volunteer firefighters in Massachusetts who die in the line of duty or from service-related causes. The bill extends financial protections currently available to families of career firefighters to those whose spouses serve in volunteer or call capacities.

Why is this important

Volunteer and call firefighters make up a significant portion of Massachusetts fire departments, yet their surviving families historically receive fewer protections than families of career firefighters. This creates disparities in financial security for families who lose a member serving the same dangerous role, which may impact recruitment and retention of volunteer fire services.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: The bill's fiscal impact on state and municipal budgets is unclear; municipalities may face increased liability insurance or pension obligations
  • Definition of eligibility: Questions about whether deaths must occur during active duty calls versus service-related illnesses, and how causation is established
  • Equity across public servants: Why volunteer firefighters receive different treatment than other volunteer emergency responders (EMTs, rescue workers) who face similar risks

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

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