A2801

Establishes an annual $15,000 death benefit for forest firefighters who die in the line of duty.

The bill establishes an annual $15,000 death benefit for forest firefighters who die in the line of duty. This benefit is payable to the widow or widower, or to surviving children or parents if no widow or widower is present. The benefit is contingent on the death being reported to the Commissioner of Environmental Protection within 30 days, though the commissioner may waive this requirement. The payment is sourced from the General Fund and is to be made by the State Treasurer.