Coverage provided under new legislation would make retired first responders eligible for tax credits, subsidies and tax-advantaged contributions from their former employer or pension plan. Learn more in an episode of Inside EMS, in which co-hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss the bill.
By News Staff
WASHINGTON D.C. — A new bill introduced in Congress would allow retired first responders to buy into Medicare starting at age 50.
According to a press release, the legislation will ensure that retired first responders between the ages of 50 and 65 will be eligible for Medicare, even if their pension plan provides coverage.
The bill was co-sponsored and introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Tom Malinowski (D-NJ) and Rep. Harley Rouda (D-CA). Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown introduced the measure to the Senate.
Coverage provided under this bill would be identical to the coverage provided under the existing Medicare program. Retired first responders would be eligible for tax credits, subsidies and tax-advantaged contributions from their former employer or pension plan.
IAFF officials have endorsed the bill alongside the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS), the New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association and the Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey.
Malinowski is a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus and the Congressional Law Enforcement Caucus.
“First responders always come when we need them,” Malinowski said. “This bill would ensure that when they retire, they have access to quality and reliable health coverage they have earned and deserve.”