Legislative Update:

June 16, 2006

This past week was filled with initial frustration as HB 447, did not reach the Senate floor as expected.

After some mid-week inquiries, it was learned that HB 447 – LEO Creditable Service - Workers’ Compensation (loophole), after receiving a unanimous favorable report from the Senate Pensions and Retirement Committee, was re-referred to the Senate Appropriations Base Budget Committee.  Following efforts to pull the bill from committee, Senator Tony Rand was once again instrumental in getting our bill back on track.  On Thursday, June 15, 2006, Senator Rand announced from the Senate floor that HB 447 will be calendared for Monday, June 19, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. when the Senate next convenes.

All members should continue to utilize the Capwiz alert (HERE) on HB 447 and ask your Senators’ support for this bill.  Any members who wish to show personal support for the bill are encouraged to report to the General Assembly main lobby at 6:45 p.m. where we will gather before heading to the Senate Gallery to observe the Senate in session and in live debate over the bill.  If you want to attend and need directions to the General Assembly, call the Division Office.

If HB 447 passes the Senate, it will be returned to the House for concurrence due to a bill change (technical amendment to modify the effective date). 

There has been no movement on 25-year retirement for law enforcement as we are still awaiting word on the appropriate bill amendments.  We will keep you posted.