Scored 8/10 on whether it helps or hurts everyday people.
The Health Insurance Bill
State covers health insurance for families of fallen first responders
Honor Our First Responders Act
Good for everyday people ·
If passed, the state would pay health insurance for the spouse and kids of first responders killed on duty for three years.
Our take
What we think, in plain words.
Families of heroes would get peace of mind with free health coverage, easing financial strain after a tragic loss; the state must find money, and after three years the surviving spouse must buy their own plan.
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The facts
What the bill actually says, no spin.
- Defines eligible first responders and line‑of‑duty death.
- Provides three years of health insurance for surviving spouses and dependent children.
- State pays all premiums; families pay nothing during the three‑year period.
- After three years, spouses can stay on the plan but must pay the full premium.
- The Public Employee Benefit Authority will administer enrollment and oversight.
- The General Assembly must appropriate funds each year to cover costs.
In the news
Scanning the news for this bill…
Headlines gathered from across the news, starting points to explore, not endorsements. Always read the official text before acting.
Sources
Read it yourself: the official bill and records.
This bill is in the South Carolina Bill Book 2026
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