PENCD-CHI POLICE-OTHER SERVICE
The passage of SB1877 is expected to have a significant impact on the pension benefits of Chicago police officers. By expanding eligibility for credit to include various forms of law enforcement service beyond the conventional role within the police department, this legislation potentially increases retirement benefits for many officers. It recognizes the diverse roles that law enforcement personnel may undertake, thereby providing a pathway for enhanced pension accruals based on broader service contributions.
SB1877 amends the Chicago Police Article of the Illinois Pension Code to allow certain participants in the police pension fund to receive credit for their service while on a leave of absence from the Chicago Police Department, specifically if they are assigned or detailed to perform law enforcement duties for the County of Cook, the State of Illinois, or the federal government. The bill clarifies that credit will only be granted if the service was performed in a sworn law enforcement capacity. Effective January 1, 2024, applicants will need to demonstrate that they were in such capacity to qualify for the service credit.
Notably, SB1877 includes a provision mandating that the changes to the service credit application must be implemented without state reimbursement, as stated in the amendments to the State Mandates Act. This aspect of the bill could lead to concerns regarding financial implications for local government budgets, as Chicago may not receive additional funds to cover the increased pension benefits awarded under this new structure. This has prompted discussions among stakeholders about the sustainability of the pension system amid increasing demands for public safety funding.