Relating to a cost-of-living increase applicable to death benefits paid to spouses of first responders killed in the line of duty under the workers' compensation system.

SB 2745 would increase death benefits for spouses of first responders killed in the line of duty under Texas workers' compensation. It adds a 3% annual cost-of-living adjustment to these benefits, automatically applied each January 1 starting in 2026. The adjustment applies to the base benefit amount calculated under existing law (75% of the deceased worker's average weekly wage). This change directly affects surviving spouses of eligible first responders, ensuring their benefits grow with inflation each year. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025, but the adjusted payments begin January 1, 2026.