An Act relative to COVID-19 complications for public safety employees

This bill amends Massachusetts law to provide financial assistance to retired police officers and firefighters who develop medical complications from COVID-19 contracted while on duty. Under the new provision, the state will cover reasonable medical expenses, including hospital care, surgery, and pharmaceuticals, incurred after the law takes effect for conditions that are directly linked to a work-related infection. To qualify for these benefits, a retired employee or their family must submit a written application and receive certification from a review panel consisting of local officials and medical professionals who verify the connection between the illness and the employee's service. The legislation also sets a requirement that the medical expenses must have been incurred within six months prior to the application being filed.