Bill > SB29

This bill amends Delaware's law regarding funeral expense benefits for volunteer firefighters, volunteer fire company ladies auxiliaries, and volunteer ambulance and rescue company members. The legislation increases the maximum funeral expense reimbursement from $7,000 to $10,000 for eligible volunteers who have served actively in their organization for at least 10 years within the state. The bill clarifies that the 10-year service requirement can be cumulative across multiple volunteer organizations in Delaware. Additionally, the bill specifies that if an eligible volunteer was also a state employee entitled to funeral benefits under certain existing state statutes, they would still be eligible for this benefit. The change updates a benefit that has not been increased since 2004, and the new provisions will take effect on October 1, 2025, providing financial support to recognize the service of long-standing volunteer emergency service members and their families.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=141744