Bill > A08810

This bill amends General Municipal Law Section 208-f to extend the duration of special accidental death benefits (SADB) paid to the children of deceased members of certain public pension or retirement systems. Previously, these benefits were paid to children until they reached age 18, or age 23 if they were students, and were only paid if there was no surviving spouse or if the surviving spouse had died. This bill changes the age limit for children to receive these benefits to 26, and clarifies that these benefits will be paid to children if the deceased member has no surviving spouse, or if the surviving spouse has died, with the benefit continuing until the youngest child reaches age 26. The bill also includes provisions for individuals who would have been eligible under the new rules for deaths that occurred before the bill's effective date, provided certain conditions are met, and ensures that no current beneficiary's benefits will be reduced without their consent. The special accidental death benefit is intended to provide financial support to the families of public servants who die in the line of duty, ensuring their dependents are cared for.