BOISE, Idaho – Spurred by one of the worst tragedies impacting first responders in state history, Idaho Governor Brad Little signed into a law a bill that strengthens financial protections for families of fallen first responders.
Flanked by firefighters and other emergency personnel, Governor Little signed House Bill 642 into law Tuesday.
The law guarantees surviving spouses a $500,000 payment and an annual pension of at least $75,000.
The deaths of two firefighters in Kootenai County last summer spurred action on the bill.
The Professional Firefighters of Idaho say the organization played a central role in getting it passed.
“Our members put on their gear every day, understanding the risks,” said Gabe Eckert, President, IAFF Local 710, Coeur d’Alene Professional Firefighters. “What sustains them, and their families, is knowing that Idaho has their backs. The fact that public safety officers in this state chose to fund these protections themselves speaks to the character of the men and women who serve the citizens of the State of Idaho.”
The bill passed unanimously with bipartisan support.
It takes effect July 1st, but retroactively applies to 2021, meaning four Idaho public safety officers who have died in the line of duty since then will receive the benefits.
“No law can fill the void left by loss, but this one sends a message that will endure: Idaho does not forget its heroes,” said Kootenai County Fire & Rescue Chief Pete Holley.
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