New Arizona law expands first responder death benefits

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — An Arizona bill was passed and signed into law Wednesday that expands the definition of a first responder so more families of fallen heroes are eligible for financial support.

Gov. Katie Hobbs signed SB 1503, which includes more jobs under the definition of “first responder,” such as state correctional officers, Arizona National Guard members on state active duty and law enforcement pilots.

The change will ensure the families of these men and women are financially supported if the worst should happen, supporters said.

The new law also clarifies that “killed in the line of duty” includes a first responder killed by a criminal’s actions while performing official duties.

Republican Sen. David Gowan of Sierra Vista sponsored the legislation and said it was sparked by the death of Arizona Department of Public Safety pilot Robert Skankey on Feb. 4. He and trooper-paramedic Hunter Bennett died when their helicopter went down while responding to a shooting in Flagstaff.

Skankey’s family cannot receive a state death benefit, and Gowan said the new law changes that since it applies retroactively to Dec. 31, 2025.

“These are Arizonans who show up in the hardest moments — guarding prisons, responding to emergencies under state orders, and supporting law enforcement from the air. When the worst happens, their families should not be left navigating red tape or facing financial uncertainty,” Sen. Gowan said in an emailed statement. “SB 1503 ensures Arizona is stepping up to honor their service and stand behind them when it matters most.”

“We are grateful to Governor Hobbs and the Legislature for their leadership and for ensuring that those who protect our communities from the air are honored equally with those who serve on the ground. At AZDPS, we remain committed to taking care of our own, both in life and in loss,” DPS director Col. Jeffrey Glover said in a news release.

The House unanimously passed SB 1503 Monday, and the Senate passed it 26-2 Wednesday, when it was also sent to Gov. Katie Hobbs.

See a spelling or grammatical error in our story? Please click here to report it.

Do you have a photo or video of a breaking news story? Send it to us here with a brief description.