Key NYPD retirement benefit restored in state budget

Erik Bascome

Originally published in Staten Island Advance on .
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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- New York City police officers can once again retire with full benefits after two decades on the job courtesy of legislation authored by one of Staten Island’s elected officials.

On Friday, state Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton held a press conference outside the 120th Precinct to celebrate the inclusion of her legislation to restore the NYPD’s 20-year service retirement in the new state budget.

“This year’s budget stands with the brave men and women who keep our communities safe. We can’t expect to build a stronger and safer New York City if we’re losing officers to other agencies that offer better retirement benefits,” said Scarcella-Spanton, a Democrat who represents the North Shore of Staten Island and parts of South Brooklyn.

“Restoring the 20-year retirement plan will make the NYPD more competitive and help us retain experienced officers. My legislation corrects a glaring injustice that has put New York City police officers at a disadvantage compared to their counterparts across the state, ensuring that public safety remains a top priority for our city and our state,” Scarcella-Spanton said.

“We are deeply grateful to Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and her team for the enormous effort they put into passing this landmark legislation. She fought day and night to build support for this bill and help us keep our most talented police officers on the job. Jessica is a true champion for police officers, our families and all Staten Islanders who care about public safety,” said Hendry.

Read the full article here.