Bill > HB9

This bill amends Mississippi law to expand the definition of "covered individual" in the Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Death Benefits Trust Fund to include county road and public works employees. The bill maintains the existing $100,000 death benefit for covered individuals who die while performing official duties from a qualifying cause of death, with payment prioritized to designated beneficiaries, surviving spouse and children, parents, or the individual's estate. The trust fund, which is managed by the Department of Public Safety, will continue to be funded through initial state appropriation and potential additional donations or contributions. The special fund allows for investment similar to the Public Employees' Retirement System, with any earned income remaining in the trust fund. The legislation specifically clarifies that the death benefit is separate from workers' compensation or pension benefits and is exempt from creditor claims. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to provide financial support to the families of county road and public works employees who die in the line of duty, extending the same protections currently afforded to law enforcement officers and firefighters.

Budget and Finance

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0009.xml