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SB 2212

Firefighters - As enacted, extends the period for the estate of an emergency responder killed in the line of duty from three years from the date of death to the later of such date or the date of a final order of a court, administrative law judge, or authorized state or local official designating the death as being in the line of duty; extends the period for an estate to file an appeal of a denial from 90 days to one year; adds a mechanism of appeal of a denial of a claim for the estates of firefighters, volunteer rescue squad workers, and emergency medical technicians. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 24; Title 7, Chapter 51, Part 2; Title 38, Chapter 8 and Title 68, Chapter 140.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Brent Taylor

Extends emergency responder death benefit claim deadlines from fixed 3-year and 90-day periods to court determination dates and creates formal appeal process for denied claims.

Pub. Ch. 721
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Bill Summary · SB 2212

Legislative bill overview

SB 2212 extends the timeframe for estates of emergency responders (firefighters, rescue workers, EMTs) killed in the line of duty to file claims and appeals, changing from fixed 3-year and 90-day windows to "the later of" the original date or when a court/official makes a final determination. The bill also creates a formal appeal mechanism for denied claims where previously one may not have existed clearly.

Why is this important

Families grieving the loss of emergency responders often face procedural barriers when seeking death benefits and recognition. Current time limits can expire before official determinations are made, potentially denying eligible families compensation and benefits they should receive. This bill aims to prevent technicalities from blocking legitimate claims.

Potential points of contention

  • Undefined timelines: Linking deadlines to "final order" of courts or officials could create indefinite periods if cases remain in litigation, potentially straining state benefit systems
  • Fiscal impact unclear: The bill doesn't specify projected costs if more claims are approved due to extended filing periods and appeals
  • Burden of proof standards: The bill doesn't clarify what evidence or standards determine "line of duty" deaths, leaving room for inconsistent application across jurisdictions

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

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