Monday, May 23 2016

Dear MPFF Sisters and Brothers,

Last night, just minutes before the adjournment deadline of midnight, the 2016 Minnesota Legislature passed a supplemental spending bill which included funding for the MN Hometown Heroes Act (MNHHA). The bill expands the definition of “killed in the line of duty” to include first responder deaths resulting from heart attacks and vascular ruptures suffered within 24 hours of an emergency response or stressful, non-routine fire department related duty. The spending billgoes next to Governor Dayton’s desk for his approval.

In 2003 and in a rare instance of bi-partisanship the US Congress passed the federal Hometown Heroes Survivors Benefits Act by unanimous consent, from which the MNHHA is closely drawn. The federal legislation did not, however, trump State law and a claimant would first be required to qualify for state LODD benefits in order to be eligible for federal benefits via
the PSOB.

Minnesota has a very narrow definition of “killed in the line of duty” which, depending on who is interpreting the law could have left deserving families with nothing and our brothers and sisters without the recognition they’re sacrifice deserved. Many states do not recognize such deaths as LODDs or provide surviving families with any supplemental benefit. This legislation removes that possible outcome and requires that all PERA members’ families receive the maximum survivor benefit.

This bill enjoyed broad bi-partisan support but despite this it still took a lot of effort to get it across the finish line. I’d like to recognize Local 21 President Mike Smith for his information and committee testimony, all of the MPFF brothers and sisters who spoke with your legislators about this bill, Rep Jeff Howe and Senator Sandy Pappas for being our chief authors, RJ Frascone for
his technical expertise, Dennis Flaherty and the MPPOA, and our friends with the MN fire chiefs and fire departments association for their help.

Look for more information on the MNHHA and other just passed legislation important to the MPFF in the next few days.

Fraternally,

Chris Parsons
President
Minnesota Professional Fire Fighters