MS HB9

Expands the definition of "covered individual" under the Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Death Benefits Trust Fund to include county road and public works employees alongside law enforcement officers and volunteer firefighters.

Establishes a $100,000 death benefit payable to designated beneficiaries when a covered individual dies or is fatally injured while performing official duties from a covered cause of death, excluding suicide and intentionally self-inflicted injuries.

Creates a special trust fund in the State Treasury with an initial appropriation of $200,000 that receives investment income and additional legislative appropriations, with unexpended amounts carrying forward annually rather than lapsing into the general fund.

Designates the Department of Public Safety to manage the trust fund and disburse benefits, with authority to adopt implementing rules and regulations.

Takes effect July 1, 2025.