Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay) announced that legislation he co-sponsored to ensure that families of correction officers who die in the line of duty receive the benefits they deserve passed the Assembly A.5133-A.

“As a former correction officer, I’ve seen firsthand just how difficult the duties of this job are,” Jones said. “Every day, correction officers risk their lives to protect our communities. Their families deserve to be protected too if their loved one dies on the job.”

“Correction officers put their lives on the line every day, ensuring the safety of inmates as well as their fellow officers,” said Addie Jenne (D-Theresa). “It’s an extremely difficult and dangerous job. Correction officers give so much to help keep our communities safe and we must make sure they receive the benefits they deserve for their invaluable service.”

The bill modifies in-service death benefits for state correction officers to provide families with funds equal to the value of the pension reserve, as if the officer retired on the date of their death. Currently, the families of correction officers who were working past their retirement date and died on the job are penalized, leaving them without a true safety net, noted Jones.

“I commend Assemblywoman Addie A.E. Jenne and the senate for their work on this legislation,” said Jones. “I will continue advocating for our correction officers who so valiantly keep the North Country and New York State safe.”