Abrams, Hall Hold Press Conference on Bill to Modernize the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund

COLUMBUS—State Reps. Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) and Thomas Hall (R-Madison Twp.) today held a press conference on recently introduced legislation to modernize the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund.

Employers currently contribute 19.5% for police and 24.0% for fire to the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund. This bill will increase employer contributions for police to 24.0% over a five-year period, bringing the contribution into alignment with fire. Employer contributions to the fund have not been adjusted since 1986.

“We’re here today in the name of good government; to ensure the long-term solvency of the Ohio Police and Fire Pension fund,” said Abrams during the press conference. “We must protect our first responders who risk their lives daily to protect us.”

This legislation comes as a result of a number of factors that have drastically impacted the stability of the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund.

“I am honored to be standing here in support of our first responders,” said Hall. “This bill is a proactive approach to a looming crisis. We must take action to make sure our law enforcement officers are taken care of.”

Abrams and Hall were joined by the President of the Ohio Association of Professional Firefighters John Harvey and President of the Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio Gary Wolske, among other supporters. 

The legislation awaits a bill number and committee assignment.