By Forum Staff
Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed into law a bill sponsored by Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) that will provide a 3-percent cost of living (COLA) increase for those receiving the special accidental death benefit (SADB).
Often referred to as the “Widows COLA Bill,” the new legislation will provide financial assistance to those receiving SADB dating back to before 1970, and as recent as 2023.
In the city, this law will impact the families of fallen members of the NYPD, FDNY, along with the Department of Sanitation, Housing Authority, Transit Authority, Department of Correction, Health and Hospitals Corporation, and Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority, Pheffer Amato said. The law is expected to help over 1,300 families who have lost a loved one in the line of duty.
Photo Courtesy of Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato
“I hope that this increase, along with our eternal appreciation, will provide some relief,” Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato said.
Pheffer Amato recounted how one woman emailed her to thank the assemblywoman for introducing and passing the bill. “My husband died in the line of duty in 1976 and through your help, I have been able to take care of my family,” the woman wrote.
“There are no words to express the gratitude and condolences our City and State have for the families whose loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice. Governmental employees selflessly work to keep our community moving forward, and it was my honor to pass this expansion of their benefits because we have an obligation to take care of these families. I hope that this increase, along with our eternal appreciation, will provide some relief,” Pheffer Amato added.
Additionally, the new law guarantees that SADB will continue to be paid to the child of a fallen hero if they are the beneficiary until they are 18 years old, or 23 years old if a student.
