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H 2897

An Act relative to public safety employee death benefits

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David Linsky

Massachusetts bill expanding death and survivor benefits for public safety employees killed in line of duty or from service-related causes to increase family financial protection.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 2897

Legislative bill overview

H 2897 expands death benefits for public safety employees in Massachusetts, specifically enhancing financial support provided to families of police officers, firefighters, and other public safety personnel who die in the line of duty or from service-related causes. The bill modifies existing benefit structures and eligibility criteria to provide greater compensation to surviving dependents.

Why is this important

Public safety death benefits directly affect recruitment and retention in critical emergency services roles, while also determining financial security for families who lose breadwinners in dangerous professions. The bill reflects ongoing legislative efforts to recognize occupational hazards and ensure adequate survivor support, which has become increasingly significant given rising line-of-duty death rates in some jurisdictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Expanding benefits increases state and municipal pension liabilities and budget obligations, raising questions about funding mechanisms and long-term costs
  • Scope definition: Determining which deaths qualify as "service-related" versus coincidental can create disputes and administrative complexity
  • Equity concerns: Expanding benefits for public safety may raise questions about similar protections for other hazardous professions or why certain employee classes receive different coverage levels

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

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