Department of Public Safety

First responders put their lives on the line every day to serve their communities, and when tragedy strikes, their families deserve support. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) offers death benefits to the families of first responders who die in the line of duty or from qualifying conditions related to their service. This article provides an in-depth look at the benefits available, who qualifies, and the claims process, including provisions for deaths from heart conditions, cancer, suicide, and catastrophic physical injuries. It also discusses the evolving nature of eligibility requirements and how to appeal a denial of benefits.

Most employees in Minnesota are covered, regardless of full-time, part-time, or seasonal status. Employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance, with limited exceptions.

The Minnesota DPS death benefits program covers a range of first responders who serve in various capacities. Those eligible for benefits typically include:

Law enforcement officers (state, county, and municipal levels)
Firefighters (career and volunteer)
Paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs)
Correctional officers
Public safety officers involved in emergency response
Other designated emergency responders as determined by state law

Eligibility may be contingent on the first responder’s status as an active-duty member at the time of death and whether the death was directly related to their official duties.

Deaths from Heart Conditions

Heart disease and sudden cardiac events are among the leading causes of death for first responders. The high-stress nature of emergency response, combined with physical exertion, can lead to fatal heart conditions. Under Minnesota law, certain heart-related deaths may be presumed to be duty-related if they occur within a specified time frame after an on-duty incident, such as responding to an emergency call, engaging in strenuous activity, or experiencing extreme stress while performing official duties. Families of first responders who pass away due to heart attacks or other heart-related conditions may be eligible for death benefits if the condition is linked to their service.

Cancer is a growing concern among first responders, particularly firefighters who are frequently exposed to carcinogenic materials. Minnesota recognizes that some forms of cancer may be work-related, particularly those linked to hazardous exposures encountered on duty. Firefighters and other first responders diagnosed with specific cancers may have their illness classified as a line-of-duty condition. If the first responder succumbs to their illness, their family may be entitled to death benefits. Documentation proving the exposure and a direct connection between service and the disease is often required to substantiate these claims.

Mental health challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, are significant issues among first responders. In recognition of the toll that traumatic experiences can take, Minnesota has taken steps to acknowledge suicide as a potential line-of-duty death in certain circumstances. If a first responder’s suicide can be linked to job-related stress, PTSD, or other work-induced psychological conditions, their family may qualify for death benefits. This determination often requires medical documentation, mental health records, and a review of work-related stressors contributing to the responder’s condition.

Deaths from Catastrophic Physical Injuries

First responders regularly face life-threatening situations, including violent encounters, accidents, and hazardous environments. When a responder dies from catastrophic physical injuries sustained in the line of duty, their family is generally eligible for benefits. Examples of such injuries include:

Gunshot wounds
Fatal injuries from vehicle crashes while responding to emergencies
Falls from significant heights while on duty
Fatal burns or exposure to hazardous substances
Any other severe injuries resulting from duty-related incidents

Families of first responders who qualify for death benefits through the Minnesota DPS may receive:

A lump-sum payment: Financial compensation is provided to the surviving spouse, children, or other designated beneficiaries.
Workers’ compensation death benefits: Eligible dependents may receive ongoing financial support under Minnesota’s workers’ compensation system.
Health insurance coverage: In some cases, the surviving family members may continue to receive health insurance benefits through the responder’s employer.
Educational assistance: Dependent children may qualify for tuition assistance or scholarships for higher education.
Federal benefits: In addition to state benefits, families may be eligible for federal benefits through the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program.

The process of applying for Minnesota DPS death benefits involves several steps:

Submission of an application: The surviving family members or legal representatives must complete and submit the necessary application forms to the Minnesota DPS.
Documentation of the cause of death: Required documentation may include a death certificate, medical records, autopsy reports, and incident reports verifying the death was duty-related.
Employer verification: The employer or agency of the deceased first responder must provide official verification of the individual’s service status and details surrounding their death.
Review by the Department of Public Safety: The application and accompanying materials are reviewed to determine eligibility.
Notification of decision: Once a determination is made, the applicant will be notified of approval or denial.

Requests for Review of Denials

If an application for benefits is denied, families have the right to request a review. The appeal process generally involves:

Filing a formal appeal: The family must submit a written request for reconsideration within a specified period after receiving the denial.
Providing additional evidence: The appeal may require additional documentation, expert testimony, or medical evaluations to support the claim.
Hearing before an administrative panel: In some cases, the appeal may be reviewed by an independent board or administrative law judge.
Final determination: After considering the new evidence, a final decision will be issued. If the appeal is unsuccessful, legal options may be available to contest the ruling.

Evolving Eligibility Requirements

The requirements to qualify for Minnesota DPS death benefits are subject to change. Legislative updates, new medical research, and advocacy efforts may influence the criteria for eligibility. Recent discussions have focused on expanding coverage for mental health-related deaths, broadening presumptive conditions for firefighters, and refining definitions of duty-related incidents. First responders and their families should stay informed about legislative changes and consult legal or advocacy organizations to understand their rights and available benefits.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety provides crucial support to the families of fallen first responders, recognizing their sacrifice and service. While the process of applying for benefits can be complex, understanding eligibility requirements, available benefits, and the application process can help families navigate the system. With evolving laws and policies, continued advocacy remains essential to ensuring that all first responders and their families receive the recognition and financial support they deserve.

Request a free Case Evaluation

Learn More About Our Other Practice Areas

Read Related Articles

Minnesota Department of Public Safety Death Benefits for First Responders

Eligible Employees

Deaths from Heart Conditions

Deaths from Cancer

Deaths from Suicide

Deaths from Catastrophic Physical Injuries

Benefits Available

Application Process

Requests for Review of Denials

Evolving Eligibility Requirements

Conclusion

Request a Free Case Evaluation

Social

Social

Receptionist

Fax

Receptionist

Fax

Request a free Case Evaluation

Department of Public Safety​

Learn More About Our Other Practice Areas

Read Related Articles

Minnesota Department of Public Safety Death Benefits for First Responders

Eligible Employees

Deaths from Heart Conditions

Deaths from Cancer

Deaths from Suicide

Deaths from Catastrophic Physical Injuries

Benefits Available

Application Process

Requests for Review of Denials

Evolving Eligibility Requirements

Conclusion

Request a Free Case Evaluation

Social

Social

Receptionist

Fax

Receptionist

Fax

CONTACT US NOW

Department of Public Safety