Invoice would enhance staff’ compensation funds after demise | Montana’s Pink Wave

HELENA – Families of workers dying on the job could receive more money under a new bill backed by unions in a legislative committee hearing on Wednesday.

Currently, the estates of people killed on the job are eligible for up to $ 4,000 from employee compensation insurance. House Bill 198 would allow up to $ 10,000.

Rep. Derek Harvey, D-Butte, sponsored the bill, saying there are around 10 employee compensation cases associated with death every year.

Chris Puyear spoke on behalf of the Montana Funeral Directors Association. He said the average cost for a funeral is $ 11,000.

The legislative process in the House Business and Labor Committee drew 14 supporters.

Jack McBroom is the executive director of the regional chapter of the International Brotherhood of Electricians, but said he speaks for more than just union workers.

“It’s not a union or a non-union thing. That’s decent, ”said McBroom.

The bill’s two opponents said they did not oppose the increased payout, but the bill is too vague.

The committee is expected to vote on the bill on Friday.

James Bradley is a reporter for the UM Legislative News Service, a partnership between the University of Montana School of Journalism, the Montana Broadcasters Association, the Montana Newspaper Association, and the Greater Montana Foundation.