H.R.1269 - Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1269, the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act of 2025, aims to amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to provide public safety officer benefits for exposure-related cancers. The bill defines 'exposure-related cancer' and establishes a presumption that exposure to carcinogens during duty constitutes a personal injury, leading to benefits. It also includes provisions for updating the list of covered cancers and ensuring confidentiality of information.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely expand access to benefits for public safety officers and their families in cases of cancer linked to their service. This expansion includes a broader definition of line of duty and retroactive applicability to certain claims. The Act also aims to streamline the process for adding cancers to the list of those covered.
Potential Benefits
- Provides financial support to families of public safety officers who die from exposure-related cancers.
- Offers disability benefits to officers who develop exposure-related cancers.
- Establishes a process for regularly updating the list of cancers covered under the Act, ensuring it remains current with scientific evidence.
- Extends the time frame for filing claims related to exposure-related cancers.
- Enhances the confidentiality of information provided by or pertaining to public safety officers.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs to the government due to expanded benefits eligibility.
- The definition of 'exposure-related cancer' may be subject to interpretation and legal challenges.
- The presumption of injury could lead to fraudulent claims if not properly monitored.
- The process for adding cancers to the list could be slow or influenced by political considerations.
- The Act may not address all potential health risks faced by public safety officers.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it seeks to provide for the well-being of public safety officers and their families. Specifically, the Preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare". The bill's provisions for benefits and confidentiality do not seem to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).