Andrade expands pension program for police officers, firefighters

INDIANAPOLIS — State Representative Mike Andrade (D-Munster), a co-sponsor of Senate Bill 396, is proud to help Hoosier firefighters and police officers. The Indiana House passed the bill today 93-0.

“Our firefighters and police officers spend their whole career dedicated to protecting and serving our communities,” Andrade said. “When they retire, they should do so knowing our state will take care of them as they have taken care of us.”

SB 396 allows firefighters and police officers to participate in the Indiana 1977 Police and Fire Pension Fund for 25 years, instead of the current 20 years. Participants can now renegotiate pension bumps in order to be compliant with the clarified pension formula language. A 2020 summer study committee found there were inconsistencies in the code that strayed from the original intent of the fund.

“This bill protects the integrity of the pension,” Andrade said. “As representatives, we should always clarify and return to the good intent of our legislation; that is how we best serve Hoosiers.”

The 1977 Fund was created to ensure police officers and firefighters have a fully funded pension, no matter when they decide to retire. It also provides for members who have been injured and for families who have lost a loved one in the line of duty.

The bill now heads back to the Senate for final approval.