Bill > A08259

This bill establishes an optional twenty-five year retirement plan for certain public safety dispatchers, telecommunicators, 911 operators, communications officers, and emergency services personnel employed by the state, county, or municipal emergency services departments. Under this plan, eligible employees can retire after completing 25 years of creditable service, receiving a pension equal to one-half of their final average salary. For service beyond 25 years, members can receive an additional benefit of one-sixtieth of their final average salary for each additional year of service, with a maximum total allowance of three-fourths of their final average salary. The bill allows employers to elect to provide these benefits by adopting a resolution and filing it with the comptroller, with the employer responsible for paying the associated costs. Creditable service includes not only time spent as an emergency services dispatcher but can also include service as a police officer, firefighter, or other related public safety roles. Members must file an irrevocable election to participate in this retirement plan, and the benefits are an alternative to existing retirement plans. The bill aims to provide a more flexible retirement option for public safety communication professionals who play a critical role in emergency response systems.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8259