PEN CD-DNST FIRE-BENEFIT INCRS

Amends the Downstate Firefighter Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Provides for a 3% annual increase in pensions to surviving children. Incrementally increases certain minimum retirement, disability, and surviving spouse pensions. Provides that the minimum monthly pension payable to the surviving spouse of a firefighter who died while receiving a retirement pension, including any amount payable on account of children, shall be 100% of the monthly retirement pension that the deceased firefighter was receiving at the time of death, including any annual increases that have accrued. Adds a compounded 3% annual increase for survivor pensions that are payable on January 1, 2004. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.