I am a former armed peace officer in NYS who lost 5 years of credit towards my retirement when I transferred to a department as a full-time police officer.  I attended the same police academy as other Police Officers and Deputy Sheriff's but my title isn't recogized under the police and fire retirement system.  This is not just about me, but about all those in parallel careers who are not receiving the recognition they deserve for their time served. In New York State, police and fire personnel have special 20 and 25 year retirement plans. However, these plans do not take into account time spent in parallel careers such as armed peace officers or sometimes Deputy Sheriff time.  Currently if you serve as a Deputy Sheriff or an armed Peace Officer in NYS and then transfer to a position as a Police Officer, you do not receive credit for your time as a Deputy Sheriff or armed Peace Officer.  If you are employed as a Police Officer and transfer to a Deputy Sheriff position your time does count.  It's time for all armed law enforcement positions to be treated as equals.

Many individuals transition between roles within this field throughout their career but are penalized when it comes to retirement.  This lack of recognition can result in significant burnout.

We call on lawmakers to amend the current laws so that all relevant experience within law enforcement field can gain serviceable credit towards their police and fire special retirement plans. It's only fair that those who risk their lives for our safety receive full credit for their service, regardless of the title.  It's time to focus on the job description as much as the title.

Please sign this petition to support equal recognition for all parallel law enforcement careers under police and fire retirement plans for creditable service.  I plan to provide this petition to NYS Senate and Assembly members.