News Releases

Ford files legislation to increase police officer and firefighters pensions

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 7, 2018) – State Sen. Jon Ford (R-Terre Haute) recently filed a bill that would increase retirement benefits for police officers and firefighters.

Senate Bill 85 would increase the amount a retired first responder receives each month from 50 to 52 percent. They would also receive one percent of that salary for every six months of active service over 20 years.

“It’s important we acknowledge the commitment and sacrifice of our first responders,” Ford said. “This legislation would help ensure our police officers and firefighters are able to live comfortably when they retire.”

The bill would also increase the amount a first responder’s surviving spouse would receive from 60 to 70 percent of their benefit.

This legislation is the result of a recommendation by the Interim Study Committee on Pension Management Oversight, which studied topics related to the 1977 Police Officers’ and Firefighters’ Pension and Disability Fund. This fund was established to support eligible public safety officers and their survivor, and pays pension, disability and survivor benefits.

To learn more about this legislation, visit iga.in.gov.

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A high-resolution photo of State Sen. Jon Ford is available by clicking here.