MS HB1427

Expands the Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Death Benefits Trust Fund to include emergency management agency personnel performing emergency management functions for health and safety in Mississippi.

Increases the death benefit payment from $65,000 to $100,000 for covered individuals (law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency management personnel) killed or fatally injured while performing official duties.

Expands the Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Disability Benefits Trust Fund to include emergency management agency personnel eligible for monthly disability payments equal to 34% of regular base salary.

Establishes initial appropriation of $200,000 for the Death Benefits Trust Fund, with both trust funds to receive investment management by the State Treasurer under Public Employees' Retirement System guidelines.

Effective date: July 1, 2014; Department of Public Safety manages death benefits while Attorney General's office manages disability benefits.