HB 24-1139 Summary

• Death benefits for surviving spouses of state employees in high-risk jobs continue for life even after remarriage, rather than terminating upon remarriage.

• High-risk job classifications include Colorado State Patrol officers, Colorado Bureau of Investigation officers, Department of Corrections officers and community parole officers, firefighters, wildlife officers, parks and recreation officers, Department of Transportation highway safety employees, Department of Revenue peace officers, and higher education institution peace officers.

• Surviving spouses of non-high-risk state employees receive a two-year lump-sum benefit without discount upon remarriage, less any previously paid lump sums.

• The bill amends Colorado Revised Statutes section 8-42-120 regarding termination of death benefit rights.

• The act takes effect 12:01 a.m. the day after the ninety-day period following final adjournment of the general assembly, or upon voter approval if a referendum petition is filed.