PHOENIX — Arizona voters approved Proposition 311, which will impose a court fee to fund benefits for the surviving spouse or children of fallen first responders. 62.91% of voters supported the measure.
The $250,000 state benefit will be funded by a $20 fee on all criminal convictions. The program will begin on July 1, 2025.
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Prop 311 will require the secretary of state's office to pay the $250,000 benefit within 30 days of being notified by an employer of a first responder's death due to the criminal act of another.
First responders included are:
- a peace officer
- firefighter
- fire marshal
- fire inspector
- emergency medical care technician,
- paramedic
- tribal police officer
- National Guard member who is on state active duty in Arizona
- a correctional officer who is employed by the Arizona Department of Corrections.
It also creates harsher penalties for anyone who assaults a peace officer, including firefighters, fire marshals, fire inspectors, emergency medical care technicians or paramedics who are "engaged in the execution of any official duties."
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