Anne Arundel public safety employees with disabilities may see restrictions lifted on their pensions benefits that will allow them to better support their families, officials said.
“It?s not a very good feeling suffering a disability, and the county was pressing you to not better yourself or else they?ll take away your pension,” said O?Brien Atkinson, president of Anne Arundel Fraternal Order of Police.
A bill before the County Council would allow disabled police officers, firefighters, prison guards and sheriff?s deputies to earn an unlimitedincome and still receive their pension benefits.
“The bill would only affect a few, but it is fitting and appropriate to provide this benefit for those who put their lives on the line,” said County Executive John R. Leopold, who initiated the proposal.
Current rules stop public safety employees? earning potential to what their rank?s highest salary was at the time of retirement. Those who earn above that would have their pension reduced.
County Budget Officer John Hammond said the bill would add an extra $80,000 a year to the county?s expense, which would be covered by the pension funds of the departments.
The bill also includes a 1 percent reduction in pension payments for police officers below the rank of sergeant, costing the county $300,000 yearly.
“This was all part of the labor negotiations, and we planned to absorb these expenses,” Hammond said.
The bill has found support from the police and firefighters unions, both of which praised Leopold.
“The cap limited members from furthering themselves and their families,” said Craig Oldershaw, president of the Professional Firefighters of Anne Arundel Local 1563.
“We have many member go on to sell real estate. Some are just glad to see the sun rise.”
A public hearing followed by the council?s vote will take place Monday in Annapolis.
