WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 396

Public Safety Officer - Performance of Duties - Death Benefits

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joanne Benson and 2 co-sponsors

Maryland law expands death benefits for public safety officers killed in the line of duty, providing greater financial protection to families of fallen officers.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 573
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 396

Legislative bill overview

SB 396 expands death benefits for public safety officers in Maryland who die while performing their duties. The bill, which was signed into law in May 2025, modifies the existing framework for how death benefits are calculated and distributed to families of fallen officers. This includes law enforcement, firefighters, and other designated public safety personnel.

Why is this important

Death benefits provide critical financial support to families who lose breadwinners in high-risk professions. Given that public safety work carries significant occupational hazards, enhanced benefits recognize the sacrifice made by these workers and their families while potentially improving recruitment and retention in these essential roles. The bill's passage indicates legislative recognition that current benefit structures may be inadequate.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Expanded death benefits increase state budgetary obligations, which could affect funding for other programs or require new revenue sources
  • Scope definition: Questions may arise about which public safety roles qualify and whether the definition is sufficiently clear or overly broad
  • Benefit calculation methodology: Changes to how benefits are computed could create disparities between officers hired before and after the law, or between different types of public safety workers

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

Sign in to ask a question.