FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2006
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Pileggi Bill Providing Benefits For Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Goes to Governor 

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 

Today, the State Senate gave its final approval of a bill introduced by State Senator Dominic Pileggi (R-Chester, Delaware) to extend coverage to sheriffs and deputy sheriffs under Pennsylvania's Enforcement Officer Disability Benefits Law. The bill passed the House of Representatives by a unanimous vote last week and now goes to the Governor for his consideration. 

The Law, commonly known as the "Heart and Lung Act" insures that an injured law enforcement officer would be paid his full rate of salary during a temporary incapacity that resulted from a work-related injury. 

"On Thursday, July 24, 2003, two Chester County deputy sheriffs were shot while attempting to serve an eviction notice," noted Pileggi. "Currently, the Act covers state and municipal police officers, probation officers, and park rangers, among others. Clearly, sheriffs and their deputies also perform many dangerous law enforcement functions, therefore it is time that sheriffs and deputy sheriffs be included in the protections of the Heart and Lung Act." 

The Governor now has 10 days to sign or veto the measure.

Contact:

Lee Derr
(717) 787-4712
lderr@pasen.gov

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