Missouri Gov. Signs Emergency Personnel Bill

Gov. Nixon signs bill creating new fund to benefit families of emergency personnel killed in the line of duty

June 19, 2009 -- KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Standing inside a Kansas City fire station, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon today signed a bill to benefit the families of Missouri emergency personnel killed in the line of duty. House Bill 580, which establishes the Line of Duty Compensation Act, allows a claim to be filed with the Division of Workers' Compensation on behalf of a law enforcement officer, firefighter, emergency medical technician, air ambulance pilot or air ambulance registered nurse for a benefit of $25,000.

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"These brave men and women put their lives on the line every day to protect the citizens of Missouri," Gov. Nixon said. "Too many times, they have given their lives in the performance of their duties. This financial benefit for surviving family members is an appropriate way to recognize those who make the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty."

"Police officers and other public safety personnel have some of the toughest, most dangerous jobs in our communities," said Kevin Ahlbrand, president of the Missouri State Fraternal Order of Police. "As our officers put their lives on the line to keep Missouri families safe, it's reassuring to know that the people of Missouri will be there to support their loved ones should the need ever arise. Missouri's law enforcement community thanks Gov. Nixon for his support of this legislation, and we appreciate the bipartisan group of legislators who worked hard to get this bill to the Governor's desk."

"It is an unfortunate part of the job that first responders die in the line of duty," said Mark Woolbright, vice president of the International Association of Fire Fighters 2nd District, which includes Missouri. "Today, with the signing of this bill, when one of our own falls, it is reassuring that the families of the fallen will receive the assistance they deserve in their time of tragedy and need. We are grateful to the General Assembly and applaud the Governor for expediting the signing of this critically important piece of legislation."

The Governor was joined at the bill signing by state legislators and by representatives of law enforcement and firefighting agencies and organizations. To determine eligible claims, the bill defines "killed in the line of duty" and excludes deaths resulting from willful misconduct or intoxication.

The bill contained an emergency clause, meaning the law took effect upon the Governor's signature. Any benefits paid under the new law are in addition to any other benefit to which the claimant might otherwise be entitled.

Source: Missouri Governor