Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF2348

Introduced
2/16/26  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to health insurance coverage for surviving spouses and children of deceased fire fighters and peace officers, and health insurance coverage for disabled or injured fire fighters and peace officers.

Impact

The proposed bill aims to alleviate the financial burden on the families of those who have died in the line of duty or who are permanently incapacitated due to their service. This change could provide vital support to the families who may be vulnerable after such tragic losses. The requirement for employers to bear the full costs of health coverage for these individuals marks a strong commitment to supporting the families of first responders, thereby enhancing the overall welfare and security of these groups.

Summary

Senate File 2348 is a legislative bill focused on providing health insurance coverage for the surviving spouses and children of deceased fire fighters and peace officers, as well as for those who are disabled or injured due to work-related incidents. The bill mandates that if an employer procures health care coverage for its employees, they must extend this coverage to the eligible surviving family members at no cost to them. This represents a significant shift from current practices, where employers are not obligated to cover these costs fully.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SF2348 may center on the new fiscal responsibilities placed on local governments and employers. Critics might argue about the financial impact this could have on municipal budgets, especially if a significant number of families opt for these benefits. As local bodies manage already stretched budgets, the new mandates could lead to discussions about resource allocation and the sustainability of these programs. Conversely, supporters may emphasize the moral obligation to provide support to families affected by the sacrifices made by first responders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA HSB783

A bill for an act relating to health insurance coverage for surviving spouses and children of deceased fire fighters and peace officers, and health insurance coverage for disabled or injured fire fighters and peace officers.

IA SF2437

A bill for an act relating to health insurance coverage for surviving spouses and children of deceased fire fighters and peace officers, and health insurance coverage for disabled or injured fire fighters and peace officers.(Formerly SF 2029.)

IA SF4464

Health insurance coverage continuation for peace officers and firefighters disabled in the line of duty

IA HB3420

Relating to certain mental health policies and services for peace officers, fire fighters, and telecommunicators.

IA HF4988

Health insurance coverage for peace officers and firefighters disabled in the line of duty continued, and eligibility to receive continued health insurance coverage for which the employer must pay the employer contribution modified.

IA HB1381

Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Death Benefits Trust; bring forward section of law relating to.

IA SF3412

Peace officer and firefighter duty disability benefits including employer providing of health insurance coverage to peace office time period limitations provision, peace officer or firefighter waiving the right to continued health insurance coverage prohibition provision, and attorney fees limitations provision

IA HB231

Extends health insurance coverage for the families of law enforcement officers and firemen killed in the line of duty (EG INCREASE LF EX See Note)

IA SB2794

Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Death Benefits Trust Fund; delete prohibition for intentional harm.

IA HB05403

An Act Concerning Health Insurance Coverage For Survivors Of Unpaid Volunteer Firefighters And State Marshals.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.