New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08350

Introduced
5/13/25  
Refer
5/13/25  
Report Pass
5/28/25  

Caption

Authorizes members or officers of the state police who were previously firefighters receive credit for such previous firefighter service for the purposes of retirement.

Impact

The enactment of A08350 could have significant implications for the state's retirement system. It is estimated that the immediate past service cost of implementing this bill would be approximately $2 million, which would be borne by the State of New York. However, it is noteworthy that this cost is a one-time payment and is not expected to increase future annual contributions from the state. The fiscal impact appears to be manageable given the limited number of affected individuals involved, which currently estimates to be about nine members within the retirement system.

Summary

Bill A08350 seeks to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law to allow members or officers of the New York State Police, who have previously served as firefighters, to count their firefighter service towards their retirement benefits. This provision aims to recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by those who have served in both capacities, and provide an equitable retirement plan for eligible members. By allowing this credit, the bill seeks to enhance the financial security and retirement outlook of current and former public safety officials who have transitioned from firefighting to police work.

Contention

Debate surrounding A08350 may invoke varying perspectives on retirement benefits for public safety workers. Proponents argue that recognizing firefighter service for police officers is a just and necessary step to honor their dual commitment to public safety. Detractors, however, may voice concerns about the potential financial implications for the state budget and question whether this amendment could set a precedent for similar benefits for other public service professions. The discussions may highlight the balance between rewarding service and ensuring financial sustainability within the state's retirement system.

Companion Bills

NY S07986

Same As Authorizes members or officers of the state police who were previously firefighters receive credit for such previous firefighter service for the purposes of retirement.

Previously Filed As

NY S07139

Authorizes the transfer of memberships for certain members of the New York state and local police and fire retirement system who previously held a membership with the New York state and local employees' retirement system back to such retirement system.

NY A07480

Authorizes the transfer of memberships for certain members of the New York state and local police and fire retirement system who previously held a membership with the New York state and local employees' retirement system back to such retirement system.

NY S04218

Repeals the provision of law that volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers who receive a real property tax exemption for service may not receive the income tax credit for such service.

NY A04728

Repeals the provision of law that volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers who receive a real property tax exemption for service may not receive the income tax credit for such service.

NY A06274

Repeals the provision of law that volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers who receive a real property tax exemption for service may not receive the income tax credit for such service.

NY S06630

Repeals the provision of law that volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers who receive a real property tax exemption for service may not receive the income tax credit for such service.

NY S07658

Waives the registration fee and service charge for distinctive plates for volunteer firefighters and members of volunteer ambulance services where the applicant has attended twenty-five percent or more of the emergency calls for the previous year.

NY A09803

Waives the registration fee and service charge for distinctive plates for volunteer firefighters and members of volunteer ambulance services where the applicant has attended twenty-five percent or more of the emergency calls for the previous year.

NY S04841

Creates a jobs development incentive income tax credit available to employers who employ individuals previously receiving unemployment.

NY A04719

Authorizes Michael V. Layman to receive state police retirement credit for services performed as a SUNY police officer.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.