WORCESTER, Mass. - Police Officer Manny Familia's death sparked conversation between local legislators who are now working to address a loophole in the state's pension law, focusing on the line of duty death statute covering police officers and firefighters.

When it comes to defining a line of duty death in Massachusetts, police officers face a more limiting definition than firefighers. Local lawmakers are trying to expand the language to help cover deaths like officer Familia's.

"(Familia's) is the type of death it was meant to cover," said State Sen. Michael Moore. 

What You Need To Know

  • Officer Familia's death uncovered a loophole in the state's line of duty death pension law 
  • Current wording only defines a line of duty police death as assault or motor vehicle 
  • Pension benefits recieved would increase to 100%
  • The amendment will be brought before the senate

Senator Moore and other local legislators are working on an amendment to clarify the line of duty death definition and expand the benefits family members receive.

"Fire has a broader term of a death in a line of duty or emergency," Sen. Moore said. "With police, it specifically says death by assault or death by car accident."

The way it is currently written, Officer Familia's death by drowning isn't technically included. 

"Obviously Officer Familia was in the performance of his duties, he was trying to rescue a child," Sen. Moore said. "This is something his family should be accessing. These are sacrifices these families are making and the fact that they have a loved one that goes out and risks their life and puts his own life in jeopardy". 

The bill would also increase the current 72% of the pension benefits the family receives to all 100%. The amendment will be brought forth to the state senate.

Senator Moore said he's heard from several Worcester city council members and local police unions about the issue. Moore is confident they can get the bill to Governor Charlie Baker's desk to be signed.