Arizona Expands Death Benefits for First Responders Under New Law

A new legislative change in Arizona promises expanded support for families of first responders who lose their lives while serving. Governor Katie Hobbs has enacted Senate Bill 1503, which broadens the criteria for receiving death benefits, thereby offering financial relief to a wider group of first responders.

Expanded Definition of First Responders

The newly signed legislation extends the definition of first responders to encompass correctional officers, National Guard members on state duty, and law enforcement pilots. This change aims to ensure that more families are eligible for financial support in case of a line-of-duty death, addressing gaps in the previous law.

Senator David Gowan, a Republican from Sierra Vista and the bill’s sponsor, emphasized the importance of the legislation in providing necessary aid to families of those who serve in critical roles.

A Tragic Catalyst for Change

The enactment of this law was influenced by the tragic incident involving Robert Skankey, an Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) pilot, who died in February. Skankey, along with trooper-paramedic Hunter Bennett, perished in a helicopter crash while responding to a shooting in Flagstaff. More details on the crash can be found here.

Previously, Skankey’s family would not have been eligible for death benefits due to his status as a civilian pilot. The new bill retroactively addresses this oversight, ensuring families like Skankey’s are not left without support.

“We are grateful to Governor Hobbs and the Legislature for their leadership, and for ensuring that those who protect our communities from the air are honored equally with those who serve on the ground,” DPS Director Colonel Jeffrey Glover said in a statement. “At AZDPS, we remain committed to taking care of our own, both in life and in loss.”

Legislative Approval

The bill saw swift legislative approval, passing the House unanimously and the Senate with a 26-2 vote. This decisive action reflects a strong bipartisan commitment to supporting first responders and their families in Arizona.