AR HB1179

Increases death benefit for surviving spouse of Department of Arkansas State Police officers who die in course of employment from $25,000 to $50,000

Establishes $100,000 state death benefit for police officers killed in official line of duty, paid to designated beneficiary, surviving spouse, surviving children under 22, or surviving parents

Adds $300,000 additional state death benefit for police officers whose death occurs after July 1, 2017 in official line of duty from criminal/negligent action or exceptionally hazardous duty, plus $50,000 if wearing approved bulletproof vest

Adds $10,000 benefit for covered public employees suffering total and permanent disability while performing official duties, with proof established by inability to work for over one year or disability rating exceeding 25% from Workers' Compensation Commission

Clarifies language regarding death benefit distribution hierarchy (spouse, then children, then estate) and definitions of "in the course of employment"