By Aaron Hastings
SALT LAKE CITY – HB288 regarding benefits for fallen law enforcement officers was met with confusion in the final hours of the Legislature to the surprise of floor sponsor, Sen. Alvin Jackson, R-Highland, recently elected in 2014.
The bill is a benefit increase to the spouses and children of law enforcement officers who fall in the line of duty, and includes both salary and healthcare benefits.
A vintage postcard of the Utah Seal
Surprisingly, with only hours left in the 2015 general session, the Senate began the vote negatively, and almost killed the bill with 25 nay votes before the Senate chamber rumbled with laughter and requests to change the vote.
Sen. Curtis Bramble, R-Provo, asked that a recount be taken, citing some confusion on the part of the Senators.
The bill proceeded to pass with 26 yea votes, and will become law upon approval from Gov. Gary Herbert.
“This happens every two years to somebody new in the legislature,” said Sen. President Wayne Niederhauser, R-Sandy.