The purpose of this part is to implement the constitutional amendment ratified November 7, 2000, authorizing the General Assembly to provide a program of compensation for law enforcement officers who become physically disabled, but not permanently disabled, as a result of physical injury incurred in the line of duty and caused by a willful act of violence and for firemen who become physically disabled, but not permanently disabled, as a result of physical injury incurred in the line of duty while fighting a fire, which program shall entitle an injured law enforcement officer or fireman to receive monthly compensation from the state in an amount equal to such person's regular compensation for the period of time that the law enforcement officer or fireman is physically unable to perform the duties of his or her employment, not exceeding 12 months, and to provide certain exceptions and limitations with respect to such program of compensation.