Bill Respecting Police Families Passes Committee, Mehaffie Says

June 17, 2026

HARRISBURG - Legislation seeking to ensure the dependents of fallen police officers continue to have health insurance passed the House Local Government Committee today, according to the bill's sponsor, Rep. Tom Mehaffie (R-Dauphin).

House Bill 911 now advances to the full House for its consideration.

"House Bill 911 aims to provide families with continuous health benefits, financial stability and peace of mind during unsettling times," Mehaffie said.

Mehaffie said he was inspired to introduce the legislation after speaking with the widow of a local police officer who died in the line of duty. During their conversations, she described the challenges and uncertainty she faced regarding health insurance coverage following her husband's death.

"It was clear to me that changes are needed," Mehaffie said. "Families that have already sacrificed so much should not be forced to navigate additional financial or insurance-related burdens while grieving."

House Bill 911 would provide insurance to the surviving spouse for his or her lifetime, and children would be covered until age 26. The proposal mirrors the benefits already available to Pennsylvania State Police families experiencing line-of-duty deaths.

"Those who serve and protect our communities deserve to know their families will be cared for if the unthinkable happens," Mehaffie said. "This legislation honors that commitment and provides meaningful assistance to the loved ones left behind."

Representative Thomas L. Mehaffie III
106th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jennifer Fitch
717-260-6563
[email protected]
RepMehaffie.com / Facebook.com/RepMehaffie