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HD 3664

An Act relative to line-of-duty death and survivor benefits

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Rich Haggerty

Expands line-of-duty death and survivor benefits for Massachusetts public safety employees, increasing financial support and eligibility for fallen workers' families.

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Bill Summary · HD 3664

Legislative bill overview

HD 3664 expands and enhances benefits for public safety employees (police, firefighters, corrections officers) who die in the line of duty and their surviving families. The bill modifies eligibility criteria, benefit amounts, and survivor support programs for these deaths. It aims to ensure comprehensive financial and support services for families of fallen public servants.

Why is this important

Line-of-duty deaths represent a significant occupational hazard for public safety workers, and surviving families often face immediate financial hardship and long-term challenges. Enhanced benefits and clearer eligibility standards provide economic security and recognize the sacrifice these families make. This directly affects recruitment and retention in critical public safety professions.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to municipalities and state budget: Expanded benefits increase costs for local and state governments, potentially affecting municipal budgets or requiring new funding sources
  • Scope of eligible deaths: Defining what constitutes "line-of-duty" can be contentious—debates may arise over mental health-related deaths, vehicle accidents, and COVID-19 exposures among responders
  • Equity across professions: Questions about whether all public safety workers receive equal benefits, or whether certain professions (police vs. corrections) receive different treatment

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

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