Elrich Signs HERO Act Expanding Benefits for Fallen Firefighters' Families

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich signed Expedited Bill 32-25, the HERO Act, on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025 at a ceremony at Burtonsville Volunteer Fire Department Station 15 in Silver Spring. Introduced by Councilmembers Evan Glass and Sidney Katz, the legislation expands survivor pension options for families of career firefighters and police officers killed in the line of duty, including a new scenario that treats the deceased as having completed 20 years of service. The bill was prompted by delays experienced by the family of Master Firefighter Christopher Higgins, who died in the line of duty in January 2025.