The Indiana House of Representatives on Thursday approved State Rep. Chuck Goodrich’s (R-Noblesville) bill to increase the special death benefit for police officers and firefighters who die in the line of duty.
Currently, if a police officer is killed while serving their community, the family of the fallen officer would receive $150,000 in death benefits. Goodrich said his proposed legislation would increase that amount to $225,000, which is the first increase in more than 20 years.
“Every day when police officers or firefighters put on their uniforms to protect our communities, they know there is a chance they may not come home after their shift,” Goodrich said. “Losing a loved one in a tragic situation is heartbreaking, and we want to do more for their families.”
The Indiana State Fraternal Order of Police, Indiana Volunteer Firefighter’s Association and Indiana Fire Chiefs Association supported Goodrich’s legislation.
House Bill 1063 now heads to the Senate for further consideration. For more information, visit iga.in.gov.