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SB 2794

Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Death Benefits Trust Fund; delete prohibition for intentional harm.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joey Fillingane

Mississippi removes suicide exclusion from police and firefighter death benefits, ensuring survivors receive full benefits regardless of death circumstances.

Enrolled Bill Signed
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Bill Summary · SB 2794

Legislative bill overview

SB 2794 modifies Mississippi's Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Death Benefits Trust Fund by removing a prohibition that previously excluded death benefits when an officer or firefighter dies from intentional self-harm. The bill allows death benefits to be paid to beneficiaries regardless of whether the death resulted from suicide or intentional harm.

Why is this important

This change affects how families of law enforcement and firefighting professionals are financially protected after a death by suicide. It removes a significant financial penalty on survivors, potentially improving mental health support outcomes by ensuring families receive promised benefits. This reflects a broader policy shift recognizing mental health crises as medical issues rather than disqualifying circumstances.

Potential points of contention

  • Moral hazard concerns: Some argue removing suicide exclusions could theoretically incentivize poor mental health outcomes, though evidence suggests the opposite—stigma and financial fear often prevent people from seeking help
  • Insurance principle debate: Traditional insurance practices often excluded intentional death, but modern policy increasingly treats suicide as a health crisis warranting coverage
  • Fiscal impact: The state trust fund may face increased payouts, requiring actuarial analysis of long-term costs to determine if fund reserves are adequate

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

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