S.2078 - Honoring Civil Servants Killed in the Line of Duty Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.2078, the "Honoring Civil Servants Killed in the Line of Duty Act," aims to increase death gratuities and funeral allowances for federal employees who die in the line of duty. The bill amends Title 5 of the United States Code to establish a minimum death gratuity of $100,000, adjusted annually for inflation, and increases the funeral expense allowance to $8,800, also adjusted annually. It also addresses death gratuities for injuries incurred in connection with an employee's service with an armed force and for deaths sustained in the line of duty abroad.
Expected Effects
The Act will provide increased financial support to the families of federal employees who die in the line of duty. This includes a higher death gratuity and increased funeral allowances. The changes aim to better compensate families for their loss and provide financial relief during a difficult time.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Financial Support: Provides a more substantial death gratuity and funeral allowance to the families of deceased federal employees.
- Inflation Adjustment: Ensures that the gratuity and allowance amounts keep pace with inflation, maintaining their real value over time.
- Clarified Beneficiary Order: Establishes a clear order of precedence for the distribution of death gratuities.
- Addresses Service with Armed Forces: Clarifies death gratuities for injuries incurred during service with the armed forces.
- Emergency Supplemental Authorization: Provides a mechanism for agencies to request additional funds in the event of a natural disaster or act of terrorism.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Increased Government Spending: The increased gratuities and allowances could lead to higher government expenditures.
- Complexity in Administration: The various amendments and adjustments may create administrative complexities for agencies.
- Limited Scope: The bill primarily benefits federal employees and their families, with limited direct impact on the broader population.
- Potential for Disputes: The order of precedence for beneficiaries could lead to disputes among family members.
- Dependence on Secretary of Labor Determinations: Relies on the Secretary of Labor for certain determinations, which could be subject to political influence.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to provide for the families of federal employees who have died in service to the country. It does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations. The bill operates within the powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8, which includes the power to provide for the general welfare and to make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution the foregoing powers.
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).