Bill > SB396

This bill expands death benefits for public safety officers by adding 9-1-1 specialists to the list of eligible professionals and creating a new presumption for death benefits related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Specifically, the bill adds 9-1-1 specialists to the categories of public safety workers who can receive a $125,000 death benefit if they are killed or die in the performance of their duties. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision that presumes a public safety officer died in the line of duty if they were diagnosed with PTSD, acute stress disorder, or a trauma-related disorder due to the nature of their work, and subsequently die by suicide. This means that the families of such officers would be eligible for death benefits, even if the death occurs after the initial traumatic experience. The bill adjusts the death benefit annually based on the Consumer Price Index and allows for the benefit to be paid to the officer's surviving spouse, children, dependent parents, or estate, in that order of priority. The changes aim to provide broader support and recognition for the mental health challenges faced by public safety professionals.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0396?ys=2025RS