Goodin: I’m disappointed that we aren’t doing all we can for veterans and public employees

INDIANAPOLIS – State Rep. Terry Goodin (D-Austin) today offered a proposal that would increase the number of years of service credit that a veteran who is also a public employee may purchase from two to four years and include those in the 20 required years of service to qualify for retirement benefits.

Goodin’s amendment to House Bill 1063, which deals with the increase in special death benefits for certain public safety officers, was defeated by House Republicans.

“I’m disappointed that we aren’t doing all we can for the folks who keep our state running and who keep our homes and streets safe,” Goodin said. “It doesn’t show much appreciation to throw away an amendment that would take little effort and have a great impact on Hoosiers.

“If a veteran who is also a public employee takes a leave of absence because they were called back to military service, they would have been able to purchase service credits to help fill in the gaps. Among other things, my amendment would have helped Hoosiers in military service retire on time.

“We can’t do enough to support our veterans. This was a very easy lift, and it’s a shame we couldn’t step up for those folks who have stepped up for us.”

This amendment was voted down 37-57.