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Bill

HB 467

School resource officers; include in the definition of "law enforcement" for purposes of LEO and Firefighters Death Benefits.

2026 Regular Session

Mississippi bill expands death benefits eligibility to school resource officers by classifying them as law enforcement for benefits purposes.

Referred To Education;Appropriations A
#appropriationsa #education
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Bill Summary · HB 467

Legislative bill overview

HB 467 expands the definition of "law enforcement" in Mississippi to include School Resource Officers (SROs), making them eligible for Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) and Firefighters Death Benefits. This means SROs who die in the line of duty would receive the same death benefits previously limited to traditional police officers and firefighters.

Why is this important

SROs are armed law enforcement personnel stationed in schools who face occupational hazards similar to other officers, yet currently lack equivalent benefits protections for their families. This change recognizes SROs' law enforcement status and provides financial security for families of officers killed while protecting students.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Expanding the eligible pool for death benefits increases state liability and budget commitments, with unclear fiscal impact analysis provided
  • Definition clarity: The bill may create administrative questions about which school-based security personnel qualify versus contract security guards or other non-armed staff
  • Precedent setting: Changes to benefit eligibility definitions could open doors for other occupational groups to request similar expansions, potentially straining benefits programs

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

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