BILL NUMBER: S9870
SPONSOR: MARTINEZ
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the retirement and social security law, in relation to
an optional twenty-five year retirement plan for fire marshals I and
supervisors of such title in Suffolk county
 
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this bill is to authorize an optional twenty-five year
retirement plan for fire marshals in Suffolk County.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1. Amends Section 604 of the retirement and social security law
by adding a new subdivision w establishing the early service retirement
benefit for fire marshal I and supervisors of such title in Suffolk
County.
Section 2. Amends the retirement and social security law by adding a new
section 89-y establishing parameters and qualifications for the retire-
ment plan.
Section 3. Amends section 603 of the retirement and social security law
by adding a new subdivision w clarifying that the service retirement
benefit shall be payable only to qualified members with sufficient cred-
ible service.
Section 4. Amends Subdivision a of section 445 of the retirement and
social security law, as amended by chapter 714 of the laws of 2023
exempting fire marshal I and supervisors of such title in Suffolk County
from restrictions related to their retirement of service.
Section 5. Clarifies that all past service costs associated with this
act's implementation shall be borne by a participating employer that
makes the election provided for in subdivision 89-y of the retirement
and social security law.
Section 6. Establishes the enacting clause.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Fire marshals play a critical role in public safety through their dili-
gent efforts in fire investigation, hazard identification, and enforce-
ment of fire codes. They are responsible for examining the causes of
fires, including suspected arson cases, to ensure justice and prevent
future incidents. By enforcing strict adherence to fire safety regu-
lations, fire marshals mitigate risks in buildings and facilities,
thereby safeguarding lives and property from the devastating effects of
fires. Their proactive approach not only addresses immediate safety
concerns but also fosters a culture of fire prevention within communi-
ties, promoting overall public well-being.
Given the demanding and often hazardous nature of their work, fire
marshals deserve retirement benefits that recognize their years of dedi-
cated service. These benefits acknowledge their invaluable contribution
to public safety and provide essential financial security as they tran-
sition into retirement. Supporting fire marshals with retirement bene-
fits is a commonsense mechanism in recruitment and retainment efforts
and further reinforces their noble dedication in maintaining community
safety and fire prevention efforts across New York State.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
See Fiscal Note.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
S9870: 603 retirement and social security law