Michigan Senate takes bipartisan steps to bolster support for first responders
LANSING, Mich. (Sept. 17, 2024) — Today, the Michigan Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 834. Introduced by Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores), this legislation would double survivor benefits for public safety officers who are killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty.
“While many professions are safe, steady, and predictable, the work of our public safety officers is anything but,” said Sen. Hertel, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military, Veterans, State Police. “Their work is defined by uncertainty, yet they choose to sacrifice their own comfort and safety for the security of their community. And while they may not have a uniform to put on, their families are right alongside them in service. This legislation acknowledges their sacrifices and provides them with support as they endure an unimaginable loss.”
Currently under the Public Safety Officers Benefit Act, if a public safety officer dies or is permanently disabled in the line of duty, the officer’s surviving spouse and dependents are eligible for a one-time payment of $25,000. Public safety officers include members of law enforcement, firefighters, rescue squad and ambulance crew members — including those serving in a volunteer capacity.
The amount has not been updated in two decades, failing to keep up with the increased cost of healthcare and funeral arrangements. This legislation seeks to rectify the issue by amending the Public Safety Officer Benefit Act to increase the benefit amount from $25,000 to $50,000 to ensure adequate support for the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, providing them with the financial stability and recognition they deserve for their loved one’s service.
Administered by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES), the Public Safety Officers Benefit (PSOB) fund is projected to have a balance of approximately $1.2 million on Oct. 1, 2024, which would include the $303,000 deposit included in the Fiscal Year 2024 State Budget. MCOLES estimates that the increased benefit would be covered by existing PSOB funds and current appropriations.
“Motor carrier officers and state troopers dedicate their lives to protecting our communities, often at great personal risk,” said Col. James Grady II, 20th Director of the Michigan State Police. “As we mourn the loss of one of our fallen officers, we are reminded that this risk is not only shouldered by those in uniform, but their entire family. This legislation is a critical step toward recognizing the immense sacrifices these families make and ensuring they have not only our gratitude, but support to navigate the aftermath of tragedy.”
The passage of this legislation comes shortly after the death of Motor Carrier Officer Daniel Kerstetter, a Grosse Pointe resident, who sustained fatal injuries while being struck in a patrol vehicle during a traffic stop. This legislation would ensure his family and four other families whose loved ones were killed in the line of duty over the summer would receive the increased benefit.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Motor Carrier Officer Daniel Kerstetter, as well as the whole Grosse Pointe community,” said Sen. Hertel. “Every day, MC Officer Kerstetter willingly put his own well-being on the line to ensure the safety of his community. Today, we not only mourn his passing but also celebrate his life and honor the extraordinary courage and dedication he exemplified through his service.”
Senate Bill 834 now heads to the Michigan House for their consideration.
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