Compensation approved for first responders’ families

A bill to provide a one-time death benefit to families of Nebraska first responders killed in the line of duty was passed by the Legislature May 19.

LB255, introduced by Lincoln Sen. Matt Hansen, provides monetary compensation to the family of a law enforcement officer, firefighter, correctional officer or government or nonprofit EMS ambulance squad member killed in the line of duty, including those who work on a voluntary basis.

Under the bill, a qualifying family member must file for compensation within one year of the death. For first responders killed in 2022, compensation provided will be $50,000. For each following year, compensation will be equal to the previous year’s compensation increased by the percentage increase in the consumer price index for all urban consumers.

The bill defines a line-of-duty death as having occurred within three years of a related incident or injury during the active performance of an individual’s official duties.

LB255 passed on a 38-6 vote.