LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Families of police officers and firefighters who die in the line of duty could get a one-time, $250,000 payment from the state under a bill advanced by Nebraska lawmakers. 

Lawmakers gave the measure initial approval on a 32-6 vote. 

The bill by state Sen. Adam Morfeld, of Lincoln, would increase the payout from the current $50,000. Some lawmakers objected to the increase, arguing it was politically motivated and that communities often take care of their own.

 Morfeld, a Democrat in the officially nonpartisan Legislature, is running for Lancaster County attorney in Lincoln. 

Sen. Mike McDonnell, a former Omaha fire chief, says the measure offers recognition to families with loved ones who have sacrificed their lives on duty.

By Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Families of police officers and firefighters who die in the line of duty could get a one-time, $250,000 payment from the state under a bill advanced by Nebraska lawmakers. Lawmakers gave the measure initial approval on a 32-6 vote. The bill by state Sen. Adam Morfeld, of Lincoln, would increase the payout from the current $50,000. Some lawmakers objected to the increase, arguing it was politically motivated and that communities often take care of their own. Morfeld, a Democrat in the officially nonpartisan Legislature, is running for Lancaster County attorney in Lincoln. Sen. Mike McDonnell, a former Omaha fire chief, says the measure offers recognition to families with loved ones who have sacrificed their lives on duty.

Nebraska advances payout boost for officers killed on duty