Gov. Rick Scott ceremonially signed a bill to help families of law enforcement employees and first responders killed in the line of duty on Monday in Orlando.
The bill, SB 7012, filed by Sen. Alan Hays, R-Umatilla, and co-sponsored by Sen. Jack Latvala, R-Clearwater, would provide the beneficiary or family member the fallen officer’s monthly salary for life. The benefits would apply to Florida’s Special Risk class, which includes firemen, correctional officers, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, probation officers and other employees whose jobs might put them at risk.
The legislation was a top priority for Senate President Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, during this year’s legislative session. It would expand pension benefits after an officer’s death from 50 percent of their monthly salary to 100 percent of their monthly salary.
Surviving beneficiaries would also be given 90 days to opt for the defined benefit pension plan. The law would apply to all Special Risk class members killed in the line of duty on or after July 1, 2013.
The law has been given over $6.5 million in the state’s budget. Scott signed the bill, along with 16 others, earlier this month, but dedicated a special ceremony for the legislation Monday.
The bill was spearheaded by the story of an Orlando police officer, Scott Pine. Deputy Pine figured he would be able to save and invest his money through the investment plan of the Florida Retirement System, but was killed in the line of duty in 2014, leaving behind his wife, Bridget, and their three children.
Pine’s wife had difficulties making ends meet financially, since she ultimately received a one-time payment and the promise of a federal health benefit, which she is still waiting to receive.
“Florida’s law enforcement officers and first responders put their lives on the line every day to keep others safe,” said Gov. Rick Scott earlier. “We could never thank them enough for their sacrifice, but this legislation will ensure that these brave Floridians have the peace of mind knowing that their family will have financial support if the unthinkable were to ever happen.”
Senate President Gardiner agreed.
"We do not want the spouses of Florida's fallen heroes to struggle to meet the basic needs of their children," Gardiner explained in a prepared statement.
The bill, Scott said, takes uncertainty out of the equation for struggling family members dealing with loss.
"With recent world events, it's more important now than ever to honor our brave men and women who put the safety of others above their own," Scott said in a statement.
State agencies representing some of the Special Risk members applauded the signing of the bill.
“This legislation goes a long way in helping the families of those fallen officers,” said Florida Sheriffs Association President and Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell.
“Florida’s firefighters are always prepared to risk their own lives to keep families and communities safe,” said Florida Fire Chiefs Association President Chief Gary Ballard. “It is important to know the loved ones of these brave individuals will have the support they deserve should they ever need it.”
Reach reporter Allison Nielsen by email at allison@sunshinestatenews.com or follow her on Twitter: @AllisonNielsen.
