Governor Brian Kemp has signed new legislation in Savannah, Georgia, granting tuition support at any state public university for families of public safety workers and educators who are killed or permanently injured in the line of duty.
Georgia Senate Bill 20 applies to the children and spouses of law enforcement officers,
firefighters, emergency medical technicians, highway emergency response operators, prison
guards, public school employees and teachers.
This legislative move helps the 200 Club of the Coastal Empire in its mission to assist families that lose a loved one in public service. The organization has been dedicated to aiding such families by providing educational support.
Jeff Jepson, chairman of the 200 Club said, “The 200 Club is the first responder for our first
responders. When the worst happens to families, this legislation will fund up to $18,000 a year
for four years, totaling $72,000, for tuition in approved schools for the children and spouses of
these professionals who serve our communities.”
With the introduction of SB20, the financial strain on the 200 Club’s donors and supporters will be reduced as educational costs for dependents rise. Since 2001, the club has financed the college education of 26 family members of first responders who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities.
