D.C. Code § 5-744

All widows and children of deceased members of the Police Department or of the Fire Department of the District of Columbia receiving relief under the provisions of subchapter I of this chapter shall be entitled to receive relief to the same extent and in the same manner as is provided by § 5-716; provided, that no relief shall be increased or allowed under the authority of this section for any period prior to October 1, 1949; provided further, that any child or children who had attained the age of 16 years and whose benefits were terminated shall be entitled to receive relief as provided by § 5-716 until the attainment of 18 years of age.