Bill > SB812

This bill modifies pension provisions for law enforcement officers and state police who suffer line-of-duty disabilities by introducing a new disability classification based on the Internal Revenue Code's definition of disability (Section 72(M)(7)). Specifically, the bill allows members of the Law Enforcement Officers' Pension System and the State Police Retirement System to receive a full 100% of their average final compensation as a disability retirement allowance if they are certified as disabled under this new definition, in addition to an annuity equivalent to their accumulated contributions. This is a significant change from the previous system, which typically limited disability retirement allowances to two-thirds of average final compensation. The bill ensures that these public safety officers who are determined to be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity due to a line-of-duty injury receive comprehensive financial support. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, providing these pension systems with time to prepare for the new provisions and giving affected members clarity about their future benefits.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0812?ys=2025RS