In Fort Smith, Arkansas, city officials are taking steps to ensure that critically injured police officer Kyle Newman receives the support he needs after being shot in the line of duty. The city’s current policy provides full pay for the first 30 days following a critical injury, but officials are advocating for a revised plan to extend protections for injured employees.

Current Policy and Proposed Changes

Under the existing policy, Officer Newman will receive his full salary for the first 30 days after his injury. Following this period, he will be on paid administrative leave while the investigation into the shooting is ongoing. Once the investigation concludes, Newman will transition to workers’ compensation, receiving 66% of his normal pay. He has the option to use accrued paid time off to supplement this amount.

Fort Smith Communications Director Josh Buchfink explained, “For the first 30 days of any critical injury, all of his paychecks are covered and he’ll be paid just as he normally would be.” However, Board of Directors member George Catsavis expressed concern about the adequacy of the policy, stating, “It’s unacceptable for him to have to live on 66% workman’s comp after his accruals run out.”

Support for Officer Newman and His Family

The city has committed to covering all medical expenses related to Newman’s workplace injury for the rest of his life, if necessary. Catsavis emphasized the importance of supporting Newman and his family, which includes his wife and two children, during this challenging time.

City officials are urging the human resources department to draft a new injury pay policy by the end of June, aiming to provide better financial security for employees like Newman who are critically injured in the line of duty. The proposed changes would apply to all city employees, not just police officers.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.