The Statewide Death & Disability Plan provides 24-hour, on- and off-duty coverage to Plan Members. Plan membership includes over 16,000 active and retired participants from over 270 fire and police departments. For disability payees, benefit amounts vary and are summarized in the chart below:
| Benefit Type | Temporary Occupational | Permanent Occupational | Total Disability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benefit Amount | 40% of Base Salary | 50% of Base Salary | 70% of Base Salary |
| Duration | Up to Five Years | As Long as the Member Remains Eligible | |
Passed during the 2026 legislative session, Senate Bill 26-039 updates the SWDD Plan for statute clarity, enhanced benefits, and streamlined processes. This action—developed alongside Plan Members, Employers, and disability plan experts—will help clarify and speed up the application process, deliver additional benefits, and decrease Plan expenses. These changes come at no cost to the state, Employers, or Members.
Removes the requirement to send all applicants to three Independent Medical Examiners (IMEs). Going forward, FPPA’s Medical Advisors may select the appropriate number of IMEs. This helps reduce delays, unnecessary appointments, and Plan expenses.
Streamlined Process
Authorizes the Board to streamline the appeal process for Members who are denied benefits. As a result, the FPPA Board will no longer hear appeals or make final determinations.
Streamlined Process
Implements rehabilitation and retraining programs for Permanent Occupational Disability payees to gain skills and reenter the workforce.
Enhanced Benefit
Clearly defines Cost of Living Adjustment eligibility for Total Disability payees. Going forward, the statutory 3% COLA will be calculated from the date the Member’s status changes to Total Disability.
Statute Clarity
Clarifies that anyone who enters DROP is ineligible to apply for disability as they have already started their retirement benefits.
Statute Clarity
Clearly outlines the Board’s ability to define standards for disability and the administration of the Plan. For example, the administration of mental health claims and ways to help Members get back to work.
Statute Clarity
Removes outdated provision requiring Employers to submit the Member Health History Form; the current online process provides Members the ability to submit the form upon enrollment in the Plan.
Statute Clarity
The Statewide Death & Disability Plan provides an invaluable safety net to Colorado’s first responders and their families should the unthinkable occur. This action allows FPPA to better serve its Members, and their families, by making the process easier and more efficient. Importantly, this legislation will not change benefit levels, alter eligibility periods, nor require additional funds from the state, Employers, or Members.
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