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HB 1317

Line of Duty Act; payments to beneficiaries.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cliff Hayes and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia modifies line of duty death benefits for public employee beneficiaries, with budgetary implications reviewed by the state retirement system.

Continued to next session in Appropriations (Voice Vote)
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Bill Summary · HB 1317

Legislative bill overview

HB 1317 modifies Virginia's Line of Duty Act to adjust how death benefits are calculated and distributed to beneficiaries of public employees (likely law enforcement, firefighters, or other first responders) who die in the line of duty. The bill has been referred to the Appropriations Committee and the Compensation and Retirement subcommittee, indicating it carries fiscal implications for the state retirement system.

Why is this important

Line of duty death benefits directly affect the financial security of families who lose public servants in dangerous occupations. Changes to benefit calculations can significantly impact how much surviving spouses, children, or other dependents receive, making this consequential for both beneficiary households and state budgets. The Virginia Retirement System's fiscal impact statement suggests the bill would alter state expenditures in this area.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to state budget: The fiscal impact statement indicates this bill has budgetary consequences; debate may center on whether Virginia can afford enhanced benefits or whether existing benefits are adequate
  • Scope of coverage: Unclear which employee categories qualify (police, fire, corrections, etc.) and whether the bill expands or narrows eligibility
  • Benefit calculation methodology: Changes to how payments are determined could favor some beneficiary situations over others, raising equity concerns among different families or employee groups

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

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