Senate corrects firefighter death-benefit language to include all firefighters

The Utah Senate on May 17 passed House Bill 1,003 to correct statutory language related to non-line-of-duty death benefits so that all firefighters receive the same post-retirement treatment as police officers.

Senator Harper explained the bill addresses an omission from prior legislation by moving the clarifying language into division B so firefighters are treated the same as police officers for the non-line-of-duty death benefit. During floor discussion Senator Wyler asked whether the bill was retroactive to cover a firefighter who recently died; Senator Harper replied the bill "goes through and falls into the time frame that the applicant needs to file within the 90 days," indicating it would apply to that family.

The Senate approved the bill under suspension of the rules by roll call; the chamber recorded 24 "yea" votes, 0 "nay" votes and five absent. The bill will be returned to the House for the Speaker's signature.

Why it matters: The amendment ensures equitable treatment for firefighters in death-benefit eligibility and clarifies filing timeframes for beneficiaries.

Next steps: The bill returns to the House for final signature; affected applicants should follow the filing timeframe noted in the statute.