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SB 834

Law enforcement: funds; public safety officer death benefits; increase. Amends sec. 4 of 2004 PA 46 (MCL 28.634).

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 9 co-sponsors

Michigan law increases death benefits for families of police officers killed in the line of duty, effective immediately upon governor approval.

ASSIGNED PA 0128'24 WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT
#lawenforcement:funds #lawenforcement:localpolice #lawenforcement:statepolice #publicemployeesandofficers:compensationandbenefits
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Bill Summary · SB 834

Legislative bill overview

SB 834 amends Michigan's public safety officer death benefits law by increasing the financial assistance provided to families of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. The bill modifies section 4 of the 2004 Public Act 46, which governs the structure and amount of these death benefits.

Why is this important

Death benefits serve as critical financial support for families who lose a breadwinner in law enforcement, helping cover immediate expenses, lost income, and long-term needs. Increasing these benefits reflects policy recognition that compensation for officers killed in service should keep pace with inflation and cost of living changes since the 2004 law was enacted.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: The bill requires state funding for increased benefit payments, which some may argue strains public budgets or should prioritize other law enforcement investments
  • Benefit adequacy debate: While supporters view increases as necessary, critics might question whether death benefits should be indexed differently or whether resources would be better spent on prevention and officer safety programs
  • Equity considerations: Questions may arise about how these benefits compare to other public sector workers or whether coverage should extend to other first responders

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

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