A state senator from Queens on Thursday introduced a bill that would give financial support to families of responders who were killed in the line of duty.
Dubbed the “Familia bill,” Sen. Jose Peralta’s legislation would give up to $1,000 a month to the spouses and dependents of fallen police officers, firefighters and emergency personnel for housing costs for up to 10 years.
It is called such in honor of NYPD Officer Miosotis Familia, a mother of three who was fatally shot July 5 while sitting in a mobile command unit in the Bronx.
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“When tragedy strikes (first respondents), we must ensure we take care of the survivors of our fallen heroes by providing them with additional benefits,” Peralta said.
He added that the Police Officer, Firefighter and Emergency Medical Services Family Housing Fund would supplement pension benefits and life insurance payments.
New York State will give $10 million to the fund, which will be administrated by a state comptroller.
“This bill is a good first step towards repaying our sacred debt to the families of the fallen,” said Patrick J. Lynch, president of the NYC Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association.
