workers' compensation; death benefits; remarriage
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill amends Arizona’s workers’ compensation laws to clarify death benefits for surviving spouses and children of first responders. Specifically, it addresses situations where a surviving spouse remarries, outlining how benefits are adjusted and potentially terminated. The bill also clarifies the definition of ‘first responder’ and establishes a timeframe for when these changes apply to previously affected spouses.
Key provisions
- Spouses of first responders who remarried on or after January 1, 2000, may receive death benefits.
- A surviving spouse will receive 66 2/3% of the deceased’s average monthly wage until remarriage or death, with a two-year lump sum upon remarriage.
- Children receive a portion of the deceased’s average monthly wage, up to age 18 or 22 if enrolled in higher education, or until self-sufficiency.
- First responders’ children receive benefits similar to other dependents, with adjustments for potential dependency.
- A single surviving child of a first responder receives 66 2/3% of the deceased’s average monthly wage if the surviving spouse is deceased or remarried.
- Parents may receive a portion of the deceased’s average monthly wage if wholly dependent on the employee at the time of death.
- The definition of ‘first responder’ is expanded to include volunteer first responders operating in an official capacity.
- Previously affected spouses who lost benefits due to remarriage before January 1, 2000, are not eligible for retroactive payments.
Bill text
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Sponsors
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3 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
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