AZ HB2296

Amends Arizona Revised Statutes section 38-651 to create an exception allowing public monies to be used for health insurance premiums of surviving spouses of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty, contrary to the general prohibition on such payments.

Adds new section 38-1103 establishing that surviving spouses of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty are entitled to employer-paid health insurance premiums for the first year following death, provided the officer was enrolled at time of death and the spouse remains eligible to continue coverage.

Extends health insurance premium coverage to dependents of deceased law enforcement officers who were enrolled in the employer's health insurance plan at the time of the officer's death.

Defines "law enforcement officer" to include peace officers certified by the Arizona Peace Officers Standards and Training Board, detention officers, corrections officers, probation officers, and surveillance officers employed by the state or political subdivisions.

Takes effect retroactively from December 31, 2009, and is designated as an emergency measure effective immediately.