Retired Officers Urge Protection of LEOFF 1 Benefits in Centrada Meeting

A retired police officer and a former fire chief voiced urgent concerns during the Select Committee on Pension Policy meeting on June 17, 2025, highlighting the potential risks to medical benefits for LEOFF 1 members amid proposed pension reforms.

The police officer, who was forced into medical retirement due to an on-duty injury, emphasized the historical obligation of cities to provide medical benefits to LEOFF 1 members, established since 1969. He warned that if the LEOFF 1 plan is closed, cities like Centrada might no longer be legally bound to uphold these benefits, jeopardizing the financial security of retirees. "If this law changes and we lose those benefits... you're actually taking away future benefits that we would have enjoyed," he stated, underscoring the emotional and financial stakes involved.

Jim Adsley, a retired fire chief and director for the Retired Firefighters of Washington, echoed these sentiments, expressing skepticism about the proposed changes. He pointed out that the plan's implementation is set for 2029, raising concerns about a clause that would prevent legal action for damages related to a plan that has yet to be enacted. "These are pretty unconventional and not real good practice," he remarked, questioning the rationale behind the proposed reforms in light of recent state budget surpluses.

The discussions reflect a growing anxiety among public safety retirees regarding the stability of their benefits and the implications of legislative changes. As the committee moves forward, the voices of these retirees highlight the critical need for transparency and protection in pension policy decisions.