West Hamilton News

The Ohio House of Representatives has approved House Bill 296, a measure aimed at modernizing the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund. The bill was introduced by State Representatives Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) and Thomas Hall (R-Madison Twp.).

Currently, employers contribute 19.5% for police and 24.0% for fire personnel to the pension fund. The proposed legislation seeks to increase employer contributions for police to 24.0% over six years, aligning it with the contributions for fire personnel and bringing it closer to the Ohio State Highway Patrol's rates. Notably, these contribution rates have remained unchanged since 1986.

Rep. Abrams emphasized the urgency of the bill, stating, “If we, the Legislature, fail to take action, the fund will become unstable, jeopardizing the pensions of our first responders.” She added that protecting first responders is crucial for community safety.

Rep. Hall noted that this legislative move is proactive: “This legislation allows us to implement a sound fiscal solution before it’s an emergency,” he said. He also stressed that it ensures commitments made to thousands of police officers and firefighters across Ohio are honored.

The bill has garnered support from several key organizations including the Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio, the Ohio Association of Professional Firefighters, and the Ohio Chiefs of Police.

House Bill 296 will now proceed to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.