Gov. Robert Bentley signs 2 bills

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Gov. Robert Bentley Signs HB30

Gov. Robert Bentley gave his final approval to two bills Wednesday, signing House Bill 30 and House Bill 41 into law at a signing ceremony at the State House.

Sponsored by State Rep. Allen Treadaway, a Republican of Morris, and State Sen. Paul Sanford, a Huntsville Republican, House Bill 30 allows firefighters and law enforcement peace officers to become eligible for compensation of state death benefits as a result of certain fatal occupational diseases.

Also under HB 30, any application for the state death benefit submitted after April 29, 2010 that was denied because of the decedent being unemployed as a firefighter or law enforcement peace officer on the date of death, is eligible to be resubmitted within six months of HB 30 becoming law and the awarding authority is permitted to reconsider the application.

“Alabama’s firefighters and law enforcement officers are among the best public servants in this nation, and House Bill 30 honors the men and women who make great sacrifices daily to protect our citizens,” Bentley said in a news release. “I appreciate the Alabama Legislature passing this bill so that family members of firefighters and law enforcement officers may be helped in the event that the service member may have died from an unforeseen occupational hazard.”

Bentley also signed House Bill 41 which allows a voter who is physically disabled or over the age of 70 to move to the front of the line at a polling place if the voter requests.

Sponsored by by Republican State Rep. David Standridge of Hayden, HB 41 will apply to general, primary and special elections.

“Voting is a constitutional right for everyone, no matter their age, race, or religion,” Bentley said in a news release. “I am proud that Alabama now has a special provision for individuals who may need extra assistance or time casting their vote. House Bill 41 will provide elderly Alabamians and those physically disabled the opportunity to vote expeditiously and avoid waiting in long lines. It is critical for everyone to have their voices heard during the election process.”

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