Identical to H 97, filed 2/11/25.

Expands the definition of killed in the line of duty under GS 143-166.2, as it applies under the Public Safety Employees’ Death Benefits Act, to also include a presumption that a firefighter was killed in the line of duty when their death occurs as a direct and proximate result of cancer of the stomach (gastric cancer).

Appropriates $500,000 in recurring funds for each year of the 2025-27 biennium from the General Fund to the Department of State Treasurer for benefits payable under the Public Safety Employees’ Death Benefits Act related to this act.

Applies to qualifying deaths occurring on or after July 1, 2025.