California firefighters support AB 1383 to lower retirement age to 55

The California Assembly Public Employment and Retirement Committee convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss Assembly Bill 1383, which proposes to lower the retirement age for firefighters and other public safety officials from 57 to 55. This significant legislative move aims to address the increasing health risks faced by firefighters, particularly the rising incidence of cancer linked to their profession.

Brian Rice, president of the California Professional Firefighters, emphasized the dangers of firefighting, noting that cancer has overtaken heart disease as the leading health threat to firefighters. He argued that the current retirement age is unrealistic given the physical and mental demands of the job, stating, "Every day spent on this job means more exposures to deadly potent carcinogens." Rice urged the committee to support the bill, framing it as a necessary step to protect the lives of those who serve the community.

Lamont Nguyen, president of the Long Beach Firefighters Local 372, echoed Rice's sentiments, highlighting the importance of restoring collective bargaining rights for retirement benefits. He pointed out that current laws limit negotiations over critical issues affecting firefighters' retirement plans, which disproportionately impacts newer hires. Nguyen expressed that AB 1383 would provide a platform for meaningful discussions about retirement benefits, ultimately benefiting all firefighters.

The bill received overwhelming support from numerous firefighter unions and associations across California, with representatives from various local firefighter organizations voicing their endorsement. They collectively stressed the urgency of addressing the health risks associated with firefighting and the need for a more reasonable retirement age.

However, the meeting also featured opposition from representatives of the League of California Cities, who raised concerns about the financial implications of the proposed changes on city budgets and retirement systems. Lisa Murphy, assistant city manager for Salinas, articulated the need to balance the interests of public safety workers with the fiscal responsibilities of local governments.

As the committee deliberates on AB 1383, the discussions underscore a critical intersection of public health, labor rights, and fiscal policy, with significant implications for the future of California's firefighting community. The committee's decision will be pivotal in shaping the retirement landscape for public safety officials in the state.