Volunteer firefighters in Prince George’s County will receive service benefits five years earlier, according to a proposal approved 8-0 by the County Council on Tuesday morning.
“Thank you for all your dedication and hard work,” Council Chairman Tom Dernoga told a group of firefighters after the vote.
The bill moves the age from 60 to 55 at which a firefighter with 25 years of service with the County Fire/EMS Department begin receiving monthly payments, starting at $225. It also increases the lump-sum death benefit from $3,000 to $5,000 for firefighters already receiving benefits or those who die with 25 or more years of active service with the department.
The changes also increase the number of volunteer firefighters in the county currently eligible for benefits from 200 to 260. The chairman of the County Fire Commission said volunteer firefighters had sought to reduce the age for about two years and was pleased with Tuesday’s vote.
“They’re in,” said Donald Strine of the additional firefighters now able to receive compensation for their years of service.
Jeff Dickey, president of the Prince George’s Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association, said he was about to start spreading the news amongst members.
“Their phone will be ringing shortly,” Dickey said.
Prince George’s has about 2,500 volunteer firefighters in 37 corporations throughout the county.
About 1,700 of those members are active and earning years toward earning benefits. The adjustment in benefits is retroactive to July 1, 2005.
