S.237 - Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The "Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act of 2025" amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to provide public safety officer benefits for exposure-related cancers. It establishes a presumption that exposure to carcinogens during duty constitutes a personal injury, leading to death or disability, thus entitling officers and their families to benefits. The Act also includes provisions for updating the list of exposure-related cancers and ensures confidentiality of information provided under the Act.
Expected Effects
This act will expand benefits eligibility for public safety officers who develop certain cancers due to exposure to carcinogens during their service. It also provides a framework for adding cancers to the list based on scientific evidence. The confidentiality provisions are broadened to protect information furnished to the Office of Justice Programs.
Potential Benefits
- Provides financial support to public safety officers and their families affected by exposure-related cancers.
- Establishes a clear process for determining eligibility for benefits based on exposure to carcinogens.
- Allows for updates to the list of covered cancers based on evolving scientific understanding.
- Extends the time frame for filing claims related to exposure-related cancers.
- Enhances the confidentiality of information provided by and 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 may be difficult to disprove, potentially leading to fraudulent claims.
- The administrative burden on the Bureau to review and update the list of covered cancers could be significant.
- The 15-year limit after active service may exclude some officers who develop cancer later in life.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It aims to provide for the well-being of public safety officers who risk their lives for the community. There are no apparent conflicts with 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).