CFO Sink Commends Passage of Firefighter Death Benefits Bill
TALLAHASSEE— Florida CFO and State Fire Marshal Alex Sink today commended the Florida Legislature for the passage of the Firefighter Death Benefits Bill, sponsored by Representative Darren Soto and Senator Carey Baker. The bill, which ensures that survivors of firefighters killed in training will receive death benefits, was pushed for by CFO Sink after hearing Kristen Curry’s heartbreaking story as State Fire Marshal.
“The tragic death of Volusia County Firefighter John Curry reminded us of the very real danger facing our firefighters every day, including during training exercises,” said CFO Alex Sink. “I am glad the Florida Legislature is honoring Curry’s sacrifice, and allowing his widow and son to receive the benefits he earned so bravely. Curry is a hero to his son, his wife and through the passage of this bill, his legacy will be remembered forever.”
Survivors of firefighters who are killed during training exercises will now receive the same death benefits that that they would otherwise receive from a firefighters’ work-related death. John Curry was a Volusia County firefighter and is survived by his spouse, Kristen Curry, and a son, Owen Curry. Curry was killed while training with the Volusia County Fire Services Firewalker Team in 2007 when a dead pine tree fell on his back. Two days later, Volusia County sent a letter to his widow informing her that her family’s health benefits would be terminated.
CONTACT: Kevin Cate, (850) 413-2842
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