WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 817

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

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David DeCoste and 4 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill expanding death benefits for surviving spouses of call and volunteer firefighters to improve financial protection for families of deceased emergency service members.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 817

Legislative bill overview

HD 817 expands death benefits for surviving spouses of call and volunteer firefighters in Massachusetts. The bill modifies existing benefit structures to provide enhanced financial support when these firefighters die in the line of duty or from service-related causes.

Why is this important

Call and volunteer firefighters comprise a significant portion of Massachusetts fire services but often lack the robust benefit protections available to full-time professional firefighters. Enhanced survivor benefits recognize the sacrifices these individuals make and provide crucial financial stability for families who lose a breadwinner in emergency service.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: The bill's fiscal impact on municipal budgets and whether funding comes from local tax bases, state appropriations, or existing benefit funds remains a key consideration
  • Eligibility definition: Questions around what constitutes a "line of duty" death versus service-related illness, and how this applies to volunteer versus call firefighters with varying levels of training and exposure
  • Benefit parity: Whether expanding these benefits for call/volunteer firefighters creates equitable treatment across different classes of emergency responders or creates inconsistencies with other public safety personnel

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

Sign in to ask a question.