Recently, the Public Employees Federation (PEF) has been boasting about its so-called role in helping reform the Tier 6 retirement plan. 

For the purpose of pension benefits, final average salary will now be determined according to the three consecutive years when an employee earned the most, rather than the current five years.

Another reform extends until March 2026, the exclusion of a Tier 6 member’s overtime earnings when determining the employee’s contribution rate to their pension benefit.

Though this is a step in the right direction, it does not go far enough for Parole Officers. PEF failed to advocate for a “25 & out” retirement benefit for its parole members.

Currently, Parole Officers are the only peace officers at the New York State Department of Corrections & Community Supervision (DOCCS) without a “25 & out” pension plan. 

All New York State Correction Officers represented by the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) enjoy a “25 & out” retirement benefit. 

This year, Fire Protection Inspectors that are members of the Tier 6 pension plan secured a "25 and out" pension option that will allow many inspectors to retire earlier. Their union pushed for a “25 and out” pension to benefit young members of the union and the inspectors of the future.

It does not make sense that PEF supports earned time credits (ETC) also known as 30 for 30 for parolees who adhere to a parole plan but does not support a “25 & out” pension plan for Parole Officers. 

If you agree that Parole Officers should fragment from PEF and join NYSCOPBA, please opt out using the following link.

In solidarity,

New York State Parole Officers