(a) As used in this Code section, the terms “COVID-19” and “public safety officer” shall have the same meanings as provided in Code Section 45-9-85.

(b) An application for indemnification with respect to a claim for total permanent disability or partial permanent disability of a public safety officer shall be submitted by that person unless the person is mentally incompetent, in which case the application may be made on such person’s behalf by his or her legal guardian.

(c) An application for indemnification with respect to a claim for the death of a public safety officer shall be submitted by or on behalf of the surviving unremarried spouse or dependents eligible under this part.

(d) Except as provided in subsection (e) of this Code section, an application for indemnification with respect to death, organic brain damage, total permanent disability, or partial permanent disability must be made within 24 months after the date of the incident giving rise to the death, organic brain damage, or disability.

(e) An application for indemnification with respect to a claim for the death of a public safety officer related to COVID-19 that occurred on or before April 15, 2022, shall be submitted between July 1, 2025, and August 1, 2025. No indemnification claim for the death of a public safety officer related to COVID-19 that occurred on or before April 15, 2022, shall be paid for an application not properly submitted between July 1, 2025, and August 1, 2025.