South Queens, NY – New York State Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato recently brought a monumental victory to the family members of governmental employees who were killed in the line of duty. Her bill, A.10111, often referred to as the “Widows COLA Bill,” was signed into law and will provide a 3% cost of living (COLA) increase for those receiving the special accidental death benefit (SADB). Due to Pheffer Amato’s work, the bill will provide financial assistance to those receiving SADB dating back to before 1970, and as recent as 2023. 

In NYC, this law impacts the families of fallen members of the NYPD, FDNY, along with the Department of Sanitation, Housing Authority, Transit Authority, Department of Correction, Health and Hospitals Corporation, or Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority. Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato’s work will help over 1,300 families who have lost a loved one in the line of duty, including families from the community. One woman emailed the Assemblywoman to thank her for introducing and passing the bill, writing, “my husband died in the line of duty in 1976 and through your help, I have been able to take care of my family.” 

“There are no words to express the gratitude, and condolences, our City and State have for the families whose loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice. Governmental employees selflessly work to keep our community moving forward, and it was my honor to pass this expansion of their benefits because we have an obligation to take care of these families. I hope that this increase, along with our eternal appreciation, will provide some relief,” said Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato.

In addition, the Assemblywoman’s bill guaranteed that SADB will continue to be paid to the child of a fallen hero if they are the beneficiary until they are 18 years old, or 23 years old if a student.