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Bill

S 6182

Relates to reducing a police officer's pension to satisfy judgments in a wrongful death action

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Parker

Bill S 6182 allows reducing police officers' pensions to pay wrongful death judgments, ensuring accountability and providing compensation for victims' families.

OPINION REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 6182

Summary of Bill S 6182

Title

Relates to reducing a police officer's pension to satisfy judgments in a wrongful death action

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: S 6182
  • Status: Opinion referred to Judiciary
  • Introduced: March 06, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 6182 aims to address the financial implications of wrongful death actions involving police officers. Specifically, it seeks to allow for the reduction of a police officer's pension benefits in order to satisfy judgments awarded in wrongful death lawsuits. This legislation is intended to ensure accountability for police officers found liable in such cases, while also providing a mechanism for victims' families to receive compensation.

Key Provisions

  • Pension Reduction: The bill proposes that a portion of a police officer's pension can be reduced or withheld to fulfill financial judgments resulting from wrongful death actions.
  • Judicial Oversight: The implementation of this provision would likely involve judicial review to determine the appropriate amount to be deducted from the pension.
  • Scope of Application: The bill specifically targets cases where a police officer has been found liable for wrongful death, thereby linking pension benefits directly to the outcomes of legal proceedings.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Police Officers: Officers who are found liable in wrongful death cases would see a reduction in their pension benefits.
  • Victims' Families: Families of victims who have won wrongful death judgments would potentially benefit from this legislation, as it could provide a means to collect awarded damages.
  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Agencies may need to adjust their policies and financial planning in response to the potential financial implications for officers.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • March 06, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee.
    • March 24, 2025: Bill opinion referred to Judiciary for further consideration.
  • Related Bills: This bill is connected to prior-session bills S 8621, S 5974, and S 7282, which may have addressed similar issues or provided context for the current legislative effort.

Conclusion

Bill S 6182 represents a significant shift in how pension benefits for police officers could be managed in the context of wrongful death judgments. By allowing for pension reductions, the bill seeks to enhance accountability and provide justice for victims' families, while also raising important considerations for law enforcement and public policy. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final outcome and implications of this proposed law.

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

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