Bill > HR4671

This bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to develop a Wildland Fire Management Casualty Assistance Program within six months of enactment to support the families of firefighters and wildland fire support personnel who are critically injured or killed in the line of duty. The program will establish comprehensive support mechanisms, including initial and follow-up notifications to next-of-kin, reimbursement for travel expenses when visiting injured personnel, and centralized case management with access to expert counselors. The program will also create a free, computer-accessible website providing personalized information about available federal benefits and assistance, establish a mechanism for survivors to register complaints or request additional help, and create liaison services with relevant federal agencies like the Department of Justice and Social Security Administration. The bill carefully defines "next-of-kin" in a prioritized list starting with surviving legal spouse and including children, parents, siblings, grandparents, and other relatives. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that it will not affect existing Line of Duty Death benefits for federal firefighters and support personnel, ensuring that this program provides additional support rather than replacing current benefits.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4671/all-info