Senate committee backs death‑benefits expansion for search‑and‑rescue volunteers

Senate Bill 47, sponsored in committee by Senator Deneen, won a unanimous favorable recommendation after lawmakers heard emotional testimony from search‑and‑rescue personnel who described life‑threatening rescues.

The bill would include both paid and volunteer search‑and‑rescue members within the same death‑benefits framework provided to other emergency responders. At the committee hearing, Chief May of Wolfe County Search and Rescue recounted two near‑fatal missions — a 150‑foot fall at Chimney Top Overlook and dangerous flood rescues on Troublesome Creek — to argue volunteers regularly face life‑threatening conditions. "We risk our lives every time we go out," Chief May said, noting volunteers receive extensive training and often operate on their own time.

Senators asked about the bill's fiscal impact. Sponsor Deneen said a fiscal note was requested and presented to the committee and described the expected cost as minimal given the relatively small number of people affected. Members praised the statewide coordination among rescue teams; Senator Boswell noted the state could address costs through an insurance policy or similar blanket purchase.

The clerk called the roll and senators recorded aye votes; the chair announced the measure passed the committee with a unanimous favorable recommendation.

The committee record shows the measure will advance with a favorable report. No further procedural steps were announced at the hearing.