Bill Respecting Law Enforcement Families Passes House, Mehaffie Says

September 30, 2026

HARRISBURG – Legislation seeking to ensure the dependents of fallen police officers continue to have health insurance passed the House of Representatives today on a unanimous vote, according to the bill’s sponsor, Rep. Tom Mehaffie (R-Dauphin).

“If it becomes law, House Bill 911 would ensure that the families of fallen officers have continued access to health care while providing greater financial security and peace of mind during an incredibly difficult time,” Mehaffie said.

Mehaffie said he was inspired to introduce the legislation after speaking with the widow of a local police officer who died in the line of duty. During their conversations, Jackie Henry described the challenges and uncertainty she faced regarding health insurance coverage following her husband’s death.

“When a law enforcement officer makes the ultimate sacrifice, his or her family’s protection shouldn’t depend on the municipality they served. House Bill 911 is about keeping a promise to the families who kept theirs,” Henry said. “I’m deeply grateful to Rep. Mehaffie and everyone who has worked together to move this legislation forward so that no surviving spouse or child has to face the uncertainty my family, and so many others before ours, experienced.”

House Bill 911 would provide insurance to the surviving spouse for his or her lifetime, and children would be covered until age 26. The proposal mirrors the benefits already available to Pennsylvania State Police families experiencing line-of-duty deaths.

Mehaffie emphasized that his conversations with Derry Township Officer Michael L. Henry Jr.’s family made it clear that changes are needed.

“Families who have already endured the profound loss of a loved one should not have to face additional financial or health insurance uncertainty during their time of grief,” he said. “This legislation honors the commitment officers make to our communities.”

House Bill 911 goes to the Senate for its consideration.

Representative Thomas L. Mehaffie III
106th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jennifer Fitch
717-260-6563
jfitch@pahousegop.com
RepMehaffie.com / Facebook.com/RepMehaffie