NY S09831

Extends the COVID-19 death benefit for public employees from December 31, 2024 to July 31, 2025 across multiple retirement systems.

Allows statutory beneficiaries of public employees who died from COVID-19 to receive accidental death benefits instead of ordinary death benefits.

Applies to members who physically reported for work on or after March 1, 2020, contracted COVID-19 within 45 days of work, and died on or before July 31, 2025.

Covers employees in the New York State and Local Police and Fire Retirement System (NYSLPFRS), New York State and Local Employees' Retirement System (NYSLERS), New York State Teachers' Retirement System (NYSTRS), and New York City pension systems.

Requires documentation of COVID-19 on death certificate or certification by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician's assistant to establish eligibility for enhanced benefits.