A bill to provide a lump sum death gratuity payment for Federal wildland firefighters killed as a result of duty, and for other purposes.
Latest action (30 Sep 2026): Introduced
What this bill does
This bill, S. 5624, introduced by Senator Jeff Merkley, aims to establish a lump sum death gratuity payment specifically for federal wildland firefighters who lose their lives while performing their duties. The exact amount of this payment is not yet specified in the available information.
The legislation directly affects the families of federal wildland firefighters. If passed, it would provide a financial benefit to them in the event of a firefighter's death in the line of duty. The bill's title suggests it also includes "other purposes," but the specifics of these are not detailed in the provided summary.
As S. 5624 has just been introduced in the 119th Congress, it is in the very early stages of the legislative process. The next steps would involve it being referred to a committee for review, potentially undergoing hearings and amendments, before it could be considered for a vote by the full Senate. If it passes the Senate, it would then proceed to the House of Representatives. The full text of the bill has not yet been published, so its complete details are not available.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
This bill is in the first stage of the legislative process. It was introduced into Congress on September 30, 2026. It will typically be considered by committee next before it is possibly sent on to the House or Senate as a whole.
Common questions
- What does S. 5624 do?
- This bill, S. 5624, introduced by Senator Jeff Merkley, aims to establish a lump sum death gratuity payment specifically for federal wildland firefighters who lose their lives while performing their duties. The exact amount of this payment is not yet specified in the available information. The legislation directly affects the families of federal wildland firefighters. If passed, it would provide a financial benefit to them in the event of a firefighter's death in the line of duty. The bill's title suggests it also includes "other purposes," but the specifics of these are not detailed in the provided summary. As S. 5624 has just been introduced in the 119th Congress, it is in the very early stages of the legislative process. The next steps would involve it being referred to a committee for review, potentially undergoing hearings and amendments, before it could be considered for a vote by the full Senate. If it passes the Senate, it would then proceed to the House of Representatives. The full text of the bill has not yet been published, so its complete details are not available.
- Has S. 5624 become law?
- Not yet. As of 30 Sep 2026, S. 5624 is introduced.
- Who sponsored S. 5624?
- S. 5624 was sponsored by Sen. Jeff Merkley [D-OR] (Democrat-OR), with 0 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on S. 5624?
- Introduced (30 Sep 2026).
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