LD 1021: Providing For The Future Of Maine's Police And Fire Fighters

Governor John Baldacci Signs LD 1021 Into Law As MAP Executive Director Paul Gaspar (r) Looks on; May 24th, 2006

                                    

Special Announcement

On June 7th, Governor John Baldacci signed LD 499; "An Act Making Unified Appropriations and Allocations for the Expenditures of State Government, General Fund and Other Funds, and Changing Certain Provisions of the Law Necessary to the Proper Operations of State Government for the Fiscal Years Ending June 30, 2008 and June 30, 2009", the Maine state budget, into law after its 2/3 passage in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. 

This is a great day for the men and women of Maine’s public safety community. The bi-partisan support of the Governor’s budget ensures the funding for the retiree health care subsidy program known as LD 1021. 

Through the hard work, perseverance and the belief that what we were doing was right, we were successful in passing LD 1021 into law. With the same commitment, we were successful in keeping the funding intact throughout the appropriations and budget process. In short, the past 30 months of this journey has resulted in health care for present and future police & fire retirees.

I’d like you to join me in thanking the Public Safety Coalition, which included the Professional Fire Fighters of Maine, Maine Fire/Police Chiefs’ Associations and members of the original Task Force. All were instrumental in the success of this campaign. But most of all, I’d like to thank Dick Wurfel, Bobby Reynolds, Ron Green, John Martell, Mike Williams (PFFM) and (Chief) Mike Lajoie all who went above and beyond in getting this benefit for all of us.

For those members who gave their time to support this effort by coming to Augusta and contacting their legislators; you have helped us get to where we are now, and you have my thanks. Your efforts were a major factor in the success of this campaign. Although there are too many to list in this letter, please know that your support is remembered.

We owe a debt of gratitude to John Richardson & Bob Duplessie who not only paved the way for this effort, but also led the 122nd legislature in recognizing the sacrifices that all police officers and firefighters make and fought for its passage. Also Governor Baldacci and his staff, who from the beginning, kept their word not, only in supporting this program, but making sure the funding stayed in the budget.

In addition, our thanks go to the current leadership of the legislature: Senate President Beth Edmonds, Speaker of the House Glen Cummings, House and Senate Majority Leaders; Hannah Pingree, Sean Faircloth, Elizabeth Mitchell and John Martin. Although there was opposition from the minority, I would also recognize Minority leader Josh Tardy for his commitment to finding a common ground between the parties to pass this budget.

Finally, I’d like to thank two members of the original task force that laid the foundation for this historic program; MAP Vice President Jim Fahey and Mike Williams of the South Portland Fire Command Unit. This has been an effort 5 years in the making and no one person can take credit for this success.

In closing, I would like to thank the Executive and Full Boards for supporting my efforts in Augusta, and the immense amount of time and resources that were required to successfully lobby this bill into law. Although there were some that said it could not be done, or would not be a benefit, I can only say that this has been a monumental step in providing an important piece of security to those who serve in public safety. It also has proven that with a common interest, we can work collaboratively with others in addressing the needs of those in public safety as well as the receiving the recognition they deserve.

Enjoy this victory,

Fraternally,

Paul Gaspar

MAP Executive Director

                                                

Emergency Update: March 9th, 2007

On Friday at just before 5pm, I received a call from Deb Friedman, the legal advisor to Senate President Beth Edmonds as well as John Martell from the Professional Firefighters of Maine. Today the legislature's insurance and financial services committee met with the Appropriations Committee and Public Law Chapter 636 (formerly LD1021) was discussed.

We have heard reports that there was some discussion about repealing the Law Enforcement/Firefighter Retiree Health Insurance Program.  We have been told that Appropriations member Rep. Linda Valentino (D-Saco) brought it up, and that Sen. Karl Turner (R-Cumberland, Falmouth, Gray, Long Island, North Yarmouth and Yarmouth) seemed interested.

In short, we knew that there would be some scrutiny at some point during the budget process. We still hold the majority with the Democrats, both on the committees as well as the legislature. We also still have the full support of the governor and his staff as well. A quote from one Democrat on the insurance committee was "If we touch this, we'll hear the fire truck sirens for miles coming our way" Unfortunately they made no mention of police cruisers.

The long and short of it is this; we need police officers and firefighters to be in the audience of the Insurance Committee's workshop meeting on Monday the 12th at 8:30 am. Then, follow the committee to the appropriations committee meeting at 10am where they will make their recommendations to the appropriations committee. I know that we have a much more difficult time in getting time off due to our schedules, but I cannot underscore how important the need is. These are not public hearing so people will not be needed to speak, but to fill the audience and make our presence known. As this is the weekend your help is needed in contacting your local’s members to help with this event!

I am asking for the help of all MAP's members to have a representative in Augusta on Monday morning for one or both of these committee meetings if at all possible. We need to prove the legislator right who made the comment above that we will respond to any action that would go back on the promise made by the 122nd legislature in passing LD 1021 to the hundreds of police officers and firefighters in the state that kept their word and have begun funding the program!

The Insurance and Financial Services Committee normally meets in room 427 in the state house building. Directions to the state house are below. I will be sure to be at room 427 Monday morning to meet those coming in and direct them to another room if the meeting has been moved. Dress is Class A, Station Uniform or some identifying dress (casual pants and work sweatshirts or t-shirts). NO GUNS UNLESS YOU ARE IN UNIFORM AND YOU MUST SIGN IN WITH CAPITOL SECURITY ON ENTERING THE BUILDING

We also need help from members to make phone calls this weekend to members of the IFS committee (names and home numbers listed below) 

CALLS FROM CONSTITUENTS ARE THE MOST EFFECTIVE.  IF ONE OF THESE MEMBERS IS YOUR SENATOR OF REPRESENTATIVE, MAKE SURE TO TELL THEM YOU ARE A CONSTITUENT.  IF YOU ARE CALLING AND ARE NOT A CONSTITUENT OF THEIRS, IDENTIFY YOURSELF AS A MAINE FIREFIGHTER OR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER. THE NAMES ARE ALSO LINKED TO THE LEGISLATORS RESPECTIVE HOME PAGE AT THE STATE LEGISLATURE WEBSITE WITH WHICH YOU CAN ACCESS THEIR EMAIL AS WELL.

 

Insurance and Financial Services Committee Members with Districts and Home Phone Numbers

Senator Nancy B. Sullivan (D-Arundel, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Biddeford), Chair 282-5594

Senator Peter B. Bowman (D-Eliot, Kittery, Ogunquit, South Berwick, York)   439-6481

Senator Lois A. Snowe-Mello (R-Auburn, Durham, Poland, New Gloucester)  784-9136

Representative John R. Brautigam (D-Falmouth), Chair  797-7131

Representative Marilyn E. Canavan (D-Waterville) 872-6221

Representative Sharon Anglin Treat (D-Farmingdale) 582-6702

Representative Charles R. Priest (D-Brunswick) 725-5439

Representative Jill M. Conover (D-Oakland) 465-9610

Representative Patsy Garside Crockett (D-Augusta) 623-3641

Representative Wesley E. Richardson (R-Warren)* 273-3572

Representative Michael A. Vaughan (R-Durham) 353-9027

Representative Jonathan B. McKane (R-Newcastle)  563-5427

Representative David G. Savage (R-Falmouth) 781-3336

Directions to State House from I-95

The State House west entrance is open. You can walk between the Cross Office Bulding and the State House above or below ground level.

 

December 30, 2006

Update on Health Subsidy Retirement Law (Formerly LD 1021): Because of the limited amount of time that was given for members to consider enrolling into the program, the state coalition who lobbied the bill was able to have a 90-day extension granted to enroll into the health insurance subsidy program with the help of Governor Baldacci. This extension took effect immediately and will be in effect until MARCH 31st 2007. IMPORTANT: Those enrolling after January 1st will be responsible for a retro payment of their 1.5% contribution back to January 1st.   I have made several trips to individual locals to answer questions, if you are interested in doing the same you can contact me at the office.

To: ALL MAP Members

From: Paul Gaspar, MAP Executive Director

Date: December 28, 2006

  As we move forward with the implementation of Chapter 636 the “HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR RETIRED LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS AND FIREFIGHTERS” not unlike any other new law we have encountered some bumps in the road. First we learned in the fall that the Attorney General had ruled; “current retiree’s that had not stayed with their municipalities’ insurance plan were not eligible for the subsidy”. This was NOT the intent of the program as we worked for passage of LD 1021 last year. PFFM (Professional Firefighters of Maine) Representatives Ron Green, John Martell and I have met with the new House and Senate Leaders from both sides of the aisle to outline this issue and let them know we would be submitting legislation to correct the problem, so far we do not feel we will encounter any serious resistance although this will mean a continued presence in the halls of the State House.

Secondly there was a delay in getting the application process started leaving members with as little as a couple of weeks to get signed up. We have been granted an administrative extension until March 31, 2007 for active employees to enroll. Since the program starts January 1, 2007, members who sign up in Feb. or Mar. will have to make up any contributions they would have made if they started in January. It is still important to get signed up as soon as possible to avoid any further issues.

Lastly, we have heard from many people that have attended the informational meetings put on by Maine Municipal Assoc. or the office of Employee Health & Benefits that there is a fear that this program will not be funded in future years and we will lose our money. While we all know that is a possibility, we also know that the teachers, troopers, and other state workers have not lost their funding even when the state was in worse financial times than it is today. We also know that our paychecks are only budgeted from year to year.

For more info on the program or any questions please contact your District Vice President, myself, visit the State of Maine’s office of Employee Health & Benefits web site at http://www.maine.gov/beh/LD1021.htm or contact Tanya Plante, 800-422-4503 ext. 76789, Tanya.L.Plante@maine.gov , and as always, contact the MAP office or website for up to date information.

Stay Safe,

Paul Gaspar

MAP Executive Director

 

November 27th, 2006

Below is a list of Questions and answers that are most commonly asked in regards to the upcoming Enrollment of Chapter 636,  “An Act to Implement Task Force Recommendations relating to parity and Portability of Benefits for Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters." As an update:

I have had a great response from members in regards to the recent Q & A sheet that went out in regards to the new retirement health subsidy law. The most asked question was “How do we enroll?” Either today or tomorrow, the State Employees Health Insurance Program (SEHIP) Office in Augusta will be mailing out the enrollment packets to all municipalities, HR people, Town Managers and chiefs. There are 3 different applications; Active employees, current retirees and current City of Portland retirees. The packets will include the application specific to your position, have another Q & A sheet, as well as directions on filing the forms.

 ALL employees, regardless of enrolling or not will be required to fill out the application and designate whether they are enrolling in the program or opting out. This will allow us to have an accurate count in how many people will be enrolling in the program, which will allow us to know what the actual cost of the bill is. This information is crucial in lobbying for the passage of funding in the appropriations process. Do your part in completing the application for or against to help us fund the bill! There will be a link on the MAP website to the SEHIP webpage for more info about Chapter 636. Or you can go directly to the SEHIP Site at:  www.maine.gov/beh

The plan will still start on January 1st of 2007 (For the 1.5% deduction for enrollees) and benefits will begin being paid on July 1st 2007. 

CHAPTER 636 H.P. 706 - L.D. 1021: An Act To Implement Task Force Recommendations Relating to Parity and Portability of Benefits for Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters. To help the membership prepare for their decision to enroll/participate in the program, I have drafted some questions and answers most commonly asked and hope you find them helpful. If you have any further questions or concerns please feel free to contact the office.

 

1. What is the benefit offered by the new law?

 

The law - Public Law Chapter 636 provides retired county and municipal law enforcement officers and retired municipal firefighters with a subsidy for their health insurance coverage. The subsidy amount is equal to 45% of an index plan, which happens to be the best plan available through the Maine Municipal Employees Health Trust, in which many counties and municipalities already participate.

 

2. Who is Eligible for this program?

 

In order to participate in this program, an individual (employee or retiree) must be:

   a. At least 50 years of age; and

            b. A county or municipal law enforcement officer or municipal firefighter, or a retired

            county or municipal law enforcement officer or retired municipal firefighter (as

            defined in the statute); and

            c. While actively employed by the county or municipality, been a participant in the

            employer’s health insurance plan or other fully-insured health insurance plan; and 

            d. Is a participant in the employer-sponsored retirement plan, either the Maine State

Retirement System (MSRS) or another defined contribution retirement plan (other than Social Security)

Once the individual retires, he/she must be receiving a retirement benefit from either MSRS or another defined contribution retirement plan (not Social Security). If the individual retires after less than 25 years of creditable service as a law enforcement officer nr firefighter, the benefit received must be at least 50% average final compensation, with no reduction for early retirement,

3.   What is considered a Defined Contribution Plan?

An employer sponsored 401 (k), 401 (a), 403(b) and 457 are defined contribution plans.

4.   What are the definitions of "law enforcement officer” and “firefighter”?

"County or municipal law enforcement officer" means a person who by virtue of employment by a county or municipal government in the State is vested by law with the power to make arrests for crimes or serve criminal process, whether that power extends to all crimes or is limited to specific crimes. "County or municipal law enforcement officer1" does not include a state or federal law enforcement officer, an attorney prosecuting for a county or municipal government or a reserve officer.

"Municipal firefighter" means a person employed by a municipal fire department with the primary responsibility of aiding in the extinguishment of fires and includes a member of emergency medical services line personnel but docs not include a member of a volunteer firefighter association. For the purposes of this paragraph, "emergency medical services line personnel" means, persons who are career employees employed full-time by a public sector agency or employer and whose primary responsibility is to provide emergency medical services.

5.  Who is not eligible for this program?

Volunteer and call firefighters and reserve law enforcement; officers are not eligible for this program. Under the law, the subsidy is not available for dependents or for retirees with "supplemental health insurance coverage". This means that retirees who are over the age of 65 and/or on Medicare, including those who are provided with Companion Plan and Major Medical coverage through the Health Trust, are not eligible to receive the premium subsidy.

6. How is health insurance provided under this program?

If the employee is covered under a Health Trust health insurance plan and meets the eligibility requirements for continued coverage as a retiree, he/she will be able to continue coverage in the same plan as provided to active employees of the former employer. For example, if the employee is covered under the Health Trust's Point of Service B plan when he retires, he will be able to continue that coverage (provided the employer continues to participate in that Health Trust plan), until the retiree reaches age 65 or becomes eligible for Medicare.

If the employee is covered under an employer-sponsored, non-Health Trust health insurance plan, there are two possibilities. If the health insurance plan allows retirees to continue coverage, then coverage will be continued under the terms of that plan. If, however, the health insurance plan does not allow retirees to continue coverage, then the retirees will be able to enroll in the State of Maine Employee Health Plan. Such enrollment must be arranged through the State of Maine.

Benefits provided under this program are determined according to the health insurance plan in which the retiree is enrolled. A retiree enrolled in the Health Trust Traditional Indemnity plan, for example, will have different benefits than will a retiree enrolled in the Health Trust's Point of Service B plan. There are no '"standard" benefits under this program.

7.  Can I use the subsidy for any health insurance plan I choose?

No, the subsidy is limited to certain plans. For law enforcement officers and firefighters retired from the City of Portland, special arrangements have been made to allow you to participate in the State Employees Health Insurance Program. These arrangements were set up because the City of Portland does not administer any retirement benefits for its employees. The State Employee Health Insurance Program is a self-insured plan, run by the State's Office of Employee Health and Benefits. People insured through this plan carry an Anthem card and use the Anthem provider network.

People retiring from other municipalities as well as retirees from county law enforcement are currently eligible to continue their health insurance in their employers' group health insurance plans. You have to pay for this coverage yourself, but you can remain a member of the employer-sponsored group, so long as you participated in the health insurance plan at the time of your retirement.

Many towns and counties have group health insurance through the Maine Municipal Association. If that's the case for the town/county you are retired from, then the new Health Insurance Program being introduced will provide a subsidy toward the cost of your own coverage in that program equal to 45% of the monthly premium cost. Two important points - first, the subsidy is only available for your coverage; it doesn't extend to the cost of insuring your dependents. Second, you have to remain in the same insurance plan option that your former employer is in - if that coverage changes, you must change, too. If you decide not to buy into the group plan when you retire, the rules of the Municipal Association's Health Trust prohibit you from enrolling at a later date.

Some local governments provide coverage through a fully insured commercial insurance plan. The City of Bangor, for example, chooses to purchase coverage for its employees directly from Anthem. Law enforcement officers and firefighters retiring from towns purchasing coverage in this manner are also free to continue to buy into their former employers group plans upon retirement. If you choose to do this, you will be eligible to receive a subsidy toward the cost of the monthly premium for your own coverage, up to the value of the subsidy for the best plan offered through the Maine Municipal Association's program. Again, the subsidy is only allowed for the cost of your coverage, riot your dependents. And just as is the case with the Municipal Association, if you decline to continue your participation in the employer-sponsored plan at the time of your retirement, you won't be allowed to join at a later date, should you change your mind.

8. I am a retired law enforcement officer, but I decided to purchase health insurance coverage on my own, rather than opting to buy into my former employers group plan. Can I still get the subsidy?

No. The subsidy is only available for coverage through the county or municipal employer's group plan in which you participated as an active employee. The only exception to this restriction is for employees retired or retiring from the City of Portland, as described under #15.

9.    When will the subsidy be available?

Subsidies become available effective July 1st, 2007

10.    When must employees enroll?

In order to be eligible for the subsidy, an employee must enroll in the program through the State of Maine by the following dates:

e.      before January 1, 2007, if the effective date of hire is on or before November 1. 2006;

f.      within 60 days after the effective date of hire, if hired after November 1, 2006; or

g. within 60 days of losing other health insurance coverage, provided such coverage was in place of the later of January 1, 2007 or 60 days after date of hire. This loss of coverage provision will not apply if the coverage was lost because of non-payment of premiums.

 

   If the employee does not enroll in this program through the State in accordance with the above guidelines, then that person will not be eligible to enroll, and will not be eligible for the subsidy.

Once the employee has enrolled in the program, he/she must begin making contributions to the Firefighters and Law Enforcement Officers Health Insurance Program Fund (the fund that will pay for the premium subsidies). Subsidized insurance coverage is not effective until the later of the date of retirement or July 1,2007.

11.  What is an involuntary loss of coverage?

Involuntary loss could mean: spouse terminates their job; spouse changes jobs; spouse takes an unpaid leave of absence. If, in any of these situations, you Iose the ability to remain covered by the health insurance provided by your spouse's employer, this would be an involuntary loss. If your spouse takes an unpaid leave of absence and does not lose the ability to continue the coverage, but they have to pay while they are out of work, this is NOT an involuntary loss.

12.   As an employee enrolled in the program, do I have to continue contributing until I retire?

Active employees must continue to contribute while they are working until they retire in order to be eligible for the subsidy program.

13.   Can I drop out at any time?

You may drop out whenever you wish. If you do, all the money you contributed will be forfeited and you will not have the opportunity to join at a later date.

14.   What if the program is not funded by the State of Maine in a future year?

Unless the Legislature makes some other provisions in their decision to not fund this program in a later year, the program ends and all money collected is forfeited by the employees and retirees. If however, the program is not funded by the current legislature before starting the program, (2007-2008, or 123rd legislature) all funds paid in from Jan 1st 2007 WILL BE returned.

15.  What happens if I promote, transfer or demote into a position that is not defined a law enforcement or firefighter under this law?

If you change jobs and the position does not meet the definition of law enforcement or firefighter, you will no longer be eligible to continue contributing 1.5% to the program. If you later promote, transfer or demote into a position that meets the definition, you will be allowed to enroll again. All money collected while you were in each position will count towards your participation minimum of 5 years if you are close to retirement,

16.   I'm a retiree from the City of Portland. What benefits are covered under the State Employee   Health Plan?

The State Employee Health Plan is comprehensive and includes coverage of prescription drugs. You car-see a list of benefits by visiting www.maine.gov/beh. Retirees from the City of Portland are eligible for enrollment in the State Employee Health Plan effective July 1, 2007.

1 7.  I am retired- what’s the timetable for enrollment for me?

Retirees should return the Application to Determine Eligibility by January 1, 2007. If eligible, we will forward the enrollment form.  People retiring prior to May 1, 2007 have to make a decision regarding enrollment prior to June 30, 2007. People retiring after May I, 2007 will have a 60-day window following their retirement date within which to make that decision.

18.  I'm currently retired- will I have to make a contribution like active employees do?

Yes, you will. The retiree shall pay the dollar equivalent of the retiree's scheduled contributions based upon the following schedule:

(1)            A retiree who is at least 50 years of age and under 55 years of age shall pay 2% of that retiree's average final monthly compensation multiplied by 60;

(2)            A retiree who is at least 55 years of age and under 60 years of age shall pay 1 .75% of that retiree's average final monthly compensation multiplied by 60; and

(3)           A retiree who is at least 60 years of age shall pay 1.5% of that retiree's average final monthly compensation multiplied by 60,

As used in this paragraph, "average final monthly compensation" means the average annual rate of earnable compensation, divided by 12, of a retiree during the 3 years of creditable service as a county or municipal law enforcement officer or municipal firefighter, not necessarily consecutive, in which the average annual rate of earnable compensation is highest or during the retiree's entire period of creditable service as a county or municipal law enforcement officer or municipal firefighter, if the period is less than 3 years.

Arrangements may be made with the Office of Employee Health and Benefits to pay the required contributions on a schedule that will be manageable; they do not have to be made in a single lump sum. Payment does have to be made within 12 months.

If you are an active employee who is within 5 years of retirement and who chooses to participate in the program, your contributions will be made in a blend of two methods. While actively employed, your contribution will be withheld by your employer from your paycheck. Once you retire, you will be making contributions on your own behalf, based on 1,5% of your retirement benefit, directly to the State. You will have to continue contributing until you've made a total of five year's worth of monthly payments into the program.

19.  Are widows or dependents of former county or municipal law enforcement officers and firefighters eligible for this benefit?

At this time, the benefit is only available for the officers and firefighters themselves; it does no: extend to dependents even in the case where the employee lost their lives in the line of duty.

20.    What is the Health Trust's role (for groups covered under a Health Trust health plan)?

The Health Trust will work with employers, and with the State of Maine Employee Health Plan, to determine the correct amount of premium that must be collected once the subsidy has been paid. The Health Trust will notify all affected employers and retirees of this premium amount once it has been calculated.

The Health Trust will collect the 45% premium subsidy from the State of Maine; however, the Health Trust does not bear any responsibility for notifying employees and retirees of the availability of the subsidy and the steps that must be taken to enroll, or for monitoring any contributions to the fund. It is important to note that both the 45% subsidy from the State and the retiree's premium payment must be made on a monthly basis in order for the retiree's coverage to be continued. If the retiree does not make his payments on a timely basis, Health Trust coverage will be terminated.

21.   What if I am not part of the Health Trust?

If you are not part of the Health Trust, the State of Maine office of Employee Health & Benefits will work directly with your insurance company.

If you have other questions that are not outlined here, please contact Tanya Plante at 287-6789 or by email Tanya.L.PIante@maine.gov

 

May 25, 2006

It is with great pride as MAP's first Executive Director to report to the membership the SUCCESSFUL passage of LD 1021 into law on May 24th 2006. The significance of this law to EVERY police officer and firefighter in this state is enjoined with a 18 month cooperative effort and largest lobbying effort ever seen in the halls of the Maine State House. The coalition of MAP, Professional Firefighters of Maine, Maine Chiefs of Police, Maine Fire Chiefs, Maine Sheriff's and retirees has worked tirelessly to be ONE voice for the for those in Maine who have and continue to protect the communities and citizens of Maine. This coalition stood strong and embodied the integrity and professionalism of the public safety service. With fair and honest compromise the coalition achieved this goal without sacrificing retirees or substantial benefits.
 
After a successful vote of 72-71 in the House, a majority vote in appropriations (8-5) and a final victory in the Senate of 20-13. This final vote process does not adequately reflect the amount of time, effort or succession of votes and debates that has created the final language of our law. From the first day of the session, we have fought hard to be the voice of public safety through countless small victories and seemingly insurmountable defeats.
 
I refuse to sully this victory by concentrating on the detractors in the legislature who would see this law defeated. Instead I urge you to look at the final roll calls for the votes to enact LD 1021 and THANK the legislators in YOUR home and local districts who supported this effort as well as members of the opposition who had the courage and fortitude to support police and fire in the face of outrageous criticism by the peers. THEIR support and courage is the reason police officers and firefighters in the state of Maine have a measure of security in retirement.
 
I can not impress upon you enough, the tremendous support of Governor John Baldacci, Speaker of the House John Richardson, Senate President Beth Edmonds, Bill Sponsor Assistant Majority Leader Robert Duplessie, Labor Committee Co Chair Ethan Strimling and Senator John Martin who's leadership made this victory possible. Their belief in this being the right thing to do as well as the outstanding support of countless staff throughout the state house and state offices secured this victory FOR YOU!
 
There are numerous people and legislators who deserve a debt of gratitude from each of you and are too many to mention here. As we move forward towards another MAP awards banquet, they will become known to you as I will move to have them be present to be recognized by MAP's membership.
 
Lastly, I can only express my gratitude for the support and encouragement of the executive board and members who supported this effort with their presence in Augusta as well as those who wrote, called and emailed their legislators. More so, to the members of the coalition whose humor, skill and determination were so vital to this victory for the police officers and firefighters of Maine. Enjoy this victory and realize the significance of this moment in our collective history. Thank you for this opportunity to make this historic law possible. Attached are the roll calls for the final votes of enactment for you to post as well as the final language of the law. 

 

Law Language

House of Representatives Vote Roll Call

Senate Vote Roll Call

 

 

Page History

Lobbying Packet & Info (Right click and select "Save Target As")

Legislator List (Right click and select "Save Target As")

Sample Legislator Letter (Right click and select "Save Target As" Make sure to adjust for representative OR senator)

Email/Contact Your State Legislators By Clicking Here

The Legislative Process: From Bill To Law

 

UPDATE: 05-23-2006 (10:00 PM)

A small group of coalition members and I are still here in the state house watching the path of LD 1021. In short; today was marked by small victories as well as some surprising defeats. On Monday we were able to strip the republican minority amendment from the bill and attach a compromise brokered between the coalition and Senator John Martin. This amendment would provide for retaining retirees, lowering the cost of the bill and providing the benefit immediately on retirement at age 50.

Today we also experienced a victory in that the house also voted to accept and pass LD 1021 with our amendment in a slim majority vote of 72-70. Later in the session the house voted to enact LD 1021 into law. The enactment was defeated; 67-71 but the bill was successfully tabled by Majority leader Glen Cummings and will be voted on for reconsideration and re-vote. If we are successful in reconsidering the vote, we will have one more opportunity to enact LD 1021

We are down but not out. I know we have asked this of the membership before , but we are at a point that we are hanging on to the passage of this bill by a thread. In short, the time for phone calls and emails is over. We MUST make a presence here in Augusta tomorrow morning with both police officers and firefighters.

If you value the benefits that LD1021 would provide, or at the minimum realize the tremendous impact this would have on your fellow bothers and sisters and our retirees, make the time to be seen in the halls as legislators walk in to vote tomorrow morning.

Session tomorrow begins at 10 am on the 3rd floor of the state house. If we have a presence here, it Will make the difference in realizing the passage of LD 1021. Your brief donation of time in uniform will ensure that we will achieve enactment in the house as well as the senate. I cannot explain to the membership just how important for the effort to be made to be here. In the final analysis, we will win or fail on our own action.....or failure to act. For those who are on duty, you can follow the links on the MAP home page to the audio streaming of the house session tomorrow.

UPDATE: 05-23-2006

The legislature was in session last night until 9pm. Our first hurdle with LD 1021 went well as we were able to successfully amend the minority bill which would have stripped retirees and increased the contribution by active employees. After some hard work with Senator John Martin the coalition has crafted an amendment that will retain our retirees, as well as providing the benefit without a waiting period as the minority report would have done (No benefit until 2012!)

As I said, LD 1021 was successfully amended in our favor 21-12  with Bi-partisan support from republican Senators Deborah Plowman and Mary Andrews. If you are in their districts, take the time to thank them for their support of LD 1021!

The house will pick up the amended bill today and we will be staying with it until it's passage. If people have the opportunity we still need people in uniform for legislators to remember why we are here. Session starts this morning at 10 am and members can meet right on the third floor of the state house. Hope to see you there.

 

UPDATE: 05-19-2006

It has been a quite couple weeks as we wait for the legislature to return on Monday, May 22 @ 9 a.m. We made the decision to keep a low key approach over the break. The legislature is well aware of our bill and our presence over the last month in the halls of the State House was well known. The bill now is in the Senate and we will be working there on Monday to move our bill along. Leadership has been in contact with our legislative sponsors over the break and talked about how to move LD 1021 forward.
 
The process now is to come out of the Senate with a positive vote and then one more time back to the House for a final vote. Right now the minority report is still attached and we have to work in some way to modify that. There are a number of options for us to work but at this moment we don't know exactly which one to pursue. On Monday we will get a feel for the mood in the Senate and work from there. 
 
What we need is for your members to once again come back to the State House on Monday, May 22,  and to be there by 8:30 a.m. 

The session starts at 9 a.m. It is very important that we continue to have a showing in the State House. Our bill is one of the last items before this legislature.  We need to let them know we have staying power, this is important to us, and that we will follow this through to the end.
 
Thanks again to all of you in local chapters for staying with this all the way through. Day in and day out you have been returning to the State House, making phone calls and sending letters. It has payed off.  Many seasoned politicians thought our bill would have fallen along the wayside by this point. We have proven them wrong. This is the final push for success.
 
Please keep on eye on your emails each day as there may be last minute changes you will need to be aware of.  Please call me with any questions.

 

UPDATE: 04-29-2006

LD 1021 was run back in the House of Representatives on Friday, April 28.  The bill was up for reconsideration, with our goal of removing the attached minority amendment and then in a following and separate vote, reinstate the majority report. Members of the coalition had worked extremely hard over the spring break and back at the State House this week to firm up and secure the need votes.
 
The bill ran and was 75-70 in favor of the motion to reconsider, which is what we wanted.  However,  under the rules of the House, a 2/3 vote was needed for the motion to reconsider to pass if any bill is held for more than one day. Which was the case with LD 1021.  We were not aware of this rule, nor were many of our legislative supporters.  Many bills, offered by both parties, have been set aside for reconsideration for longer than one day and then moved with a simple majority vote.
 
It has been done as a Matter of Courtesy to each other. Interestingly, an opponent of our bill rose to speak prior to the vote urging legislators to vote for reconsideration as a matter of courtesy. He then voted against reconsideration. 
 
Somehow, this rarely used procedural move was enforced and the Speaker ruled the motion to reconsider as failed because of the lack of a 2/3 vote. This then left the minority report attached and the bill was then sent Forthwith back to the Senate. Both the House and the Senate had many bills on their calendars Friday, some of them producing intense and emotional debate, especially in the Senate. This made for a long day and LD 1021 was not brought up for consideration in the Senate. We now face a vote in the Senate and then back in the House, which is the normal procedure.
 
Although this whole process may sound confusing and frustrating, we are in good shape. The legislature is now in recess for a couple of weeks and will return for the final session on Monday, May 22.  Over this break, we need you to continue to maintain contact with your Representatives and Senators. We want to thank them for their hard work in the legislature and acknowledge those who have continued to support us. Legislators who have not voted with us, we want to ask them to give new consideration to LD 1021 when it comes back up in the Senate and then in the House. We will be getting information out to all of you through your locals on what you can do to secure passage of this bill. Then we will need to have you back in Augusta when they return in late May.
 
 For those of you who have the trip to the State House, you have seen first hand how the whole thing works and that you presence is noted by the lawmakers. If you have not been able to come but have covered shifts for others to make the trip or called, written, or emailed  your representatives, we need you to continue that effort. Anything you can do to further our cause is needed.
 
So far in this whole campaign, over 400 law enforcement officers and firefighters have directly lobbied in Augusta. They have been courteous and honest in their efforts to get our message across. The legislators have told us so many times. We need to continue that type of effort to ensure passage of LD 1021 when we return in May.
 
The simple fact that we have maintained a presence in the State House is the reason we have kept our bill safe from a few that are trying very hard to make sure it never passes. We totally understand the frustration of returning over and over and the bill being slowly pushed through the process. It will be extremely important for ALL of us to see this process through in the next few weeks.

 

UPDATE: 04-27-2006

In usual Augusta fashion, we went to the 11th our, and LD 1021 was not heard on the floor. Due to the heavy amount of debate on a domestic violence bill, Jessica's Law and Minimum Wage for Teachers, LD 1021 was pushed to the wayside. Although it gives us a few more hours to secure votes, LD 1021 will be heard tomorrow morning before noon.
 
I am not in  position to control the hearing of the bill and would like to thank the active/retired police officers and firefighters from Bangor, South Portland, Auburn,  Portland  and Sanford for not only coming to support the bill, but sticking through the entire day to see it through. Your patience and support was a huge message to the Legislators who thought we wold quit and go home.
 
Also a thank you to MAP retirees Butch Guimond and Ronnie Damon as well as Retired Fire Chief Mike Lajoie and Police Chief Doug Bracy for their presence as well. A thank you is also in order for Cindy Swift for representing spouses of police officers through the Portland PD Support Alliance for helping us in person in the state house.
 
We still need your help in Augusta tomorrow to keep the presence here to motivate the legislators who have the courage to support LD 1021 in its original, majority ought to pass form. We will be meeting at the state house directly at 9AM to continue the fight and secure our victory. Continue your support and don't let the work that has been done by the people who have cone up go for nothing. As always you can contact me during the day tomorrow at the state house at 233-3019.

UPDATE: 04-24-2006

There has been a change in the legislative schedule. The start time for the legislature on Wednesday is 10 a.m. --so have your members meet at the MSEA office at 9 a.m. or come directly to the State House. 
 
This week, coalition leadership sent out letters of thanks to all the legislators who supported our bill with their votes last week and to those who initially supported us but ended up supporting the Republican amendment. As you are aware, LD 1021 successfully passed the House and Senate on Thursday April 13th for its first and second readings.
 
Once the Bill came back to the house for the first phase of enactment, the Republicans were successful in having it amended which strips off our retirees, increases membership contributions and delays the benefit for 5 years. Rep. Duplessie then moved to reconsider and table the Bill until this week.
 
Democrats will now move to bring the Bill and amendment back to the floor and remove the amendment. The last vote in the House which attached the Republican amendment is where we had some legislators end up changing their vote modifying the original Bill. These legislators are the ones we need to lobby hard and bring them back into the fold. We are asking that unit leaders and members once again contact their Representatives and Senators and ask them to Vote for LD 1021 in the Original Majority Report with No Amendments attached. You/they can do this by phone or email.

The legislature will be back in session on Wednesday, April 26th at 10 a.m. through Friday evening. We need to have you and your members back in Augusta on these days, April 26, 27, and 28. We will be meeting at the MSEA office on State St. at 9 a.m.

If you/they can not be there till later then go right to the State House. If you/they can't come in the morning, then come in the evening. We need to be there from now till the end. Directions to the MSEA building are attached.

We think the bill will be run on Wednesday at some point but as we have said many times before, anything could happen.  It could be in the morning or in the evening sessions. They have a huge work load in front of them with only three days to do it in. Our bill could come up quickly, with little notice, and it could be fast and furious like we saw last Thursday.  We need you to pull out all the stops and get as many members back in the halls over these final days. Hope to see you there.

 

Directions to MSEA Office, Augusta

 

UPDATE: 04-21-2006

Things are still moving positively forward with LD 1021. The legislature will be back in session on Wednesday, April 26th. It is EXTREMELY important to have a police presence in Augusta on this day as well as Thursday and Friday.  We will be meeting at 8AM (Notice the EARLIER time as session starts at 9 AM) @ the MSEA office located at 65 State St. in Augusta.  We are not 100% sure the bill will run again that day and we will probably not know until that day, but we need people there just the same to do some constituent lobbying and just to have the presence.
 
 I can't stress enough the fact that we have been told by professional lobbyists who have been helping this campaign that MORE cops are needed here in uniform to renew the interest of the legislators. If you are wearing a suit or business casual, do not come armed and wear somehting that visibly identifies you as a police officer.
 
Everything is on track but we are still close, YOUR participation could make the difference at this point, WE NEED EVERYBODY!
 
It would be a good idea for you to call YOUR Representative or Senator over the weekend and remind them to support LD 1021 with it's original Majority Report, and without any amendments. (That is all you need to say!) Take this short amount of time to make a huge difference in the passage of LD 1021.
 
Thank You, and I'll see you next week.

UPDATE: 04-13-2006

I'm sure that all of you have been waiting for the results of last night's vote. We ran the session until 11PM last night which did not put us back in town until 1AM. We have crossed a  huge hurdle but we have not achieved victory as yet.
 
House and Senate rules were suspended to allow two readings of the bill. The bill passed in the house, 73-70 and passed in the Senate 21-14. When the bill was brought back to the house for enactment the republicans were successful in attaching a watered down amendment to the bill which included the following:
 
1) An increase in active police/fire contribution to 2%
2) A minimum 5 year pay in before the benefit would be paid
3) The total elimination of current retirees!
 
I am proud that we had representation by about a dozen police officers from Bangor, Sanford, Scarborough and South Portland. Firefighters were heavily represented including Chiefs and I thank them one and all for their support. We will continue to need a police/fire presence as we near the final days of the legislative session. I would also like to recognize and thank the work of many MAP locals who after the call, made the effort to contact their legislators during this campaign. Know that the effort you made was vitally important in bringing us to this point.
 
Although this amendment has been attached, Bob Duplessie was able to have the bill tabled until the Legislature returns to the capitol a week from next Wednesday. We will be working next week on making sure we recognize all of the legislators on both sides that had the COURAGE to support our ORIGINAL bill and remember the ones who did not as well as attempt to remove our brother and sister retirees later in the night.
 
I want to be absolutely clear on this point: MAP members will not be excused from the OBLIGATION to return to the capitol and ensure the original bills passage in two weeks. The original bill will retain our 1.5% contribution and IMMEDIATE coverage of current retirees. For those who have chosen to sit on the sidelines and critique the direction of the coalition and this effort, you too will be remembered-- including retirees. Our goal is simple, to prove to this legislature that the men and women in the police and fire services need this benefit to provide the best possible service to the citizens of Maine, and that we have never...and WILL never leave our own behind. This has been a long frustrating process for all of us but we are at the brink of winning this fight.
 
The Legislature will return after their break on Wednesday April 26th. As that draws nearer you will be receiving the call to action to bring about the realization that we the work we do has worth and realize the Parity and Portability Bill.
 
I encourage all of you receiving this message to redouble your support of the LD 1021 Public Safety Coalition and for the 4400 men and women who have served and continue to serve the police/fire family as well as the people of Maine.

 

Update: 04-12-2006

The time is now here. LD 1021 will be going to the floor of the House of Representatives for it's initial vote tomorrow, Thursday April 13th. It will be heard in the evening session and officers who expressed an interest in coming to support the bill are encouraged to come.

We will be meeting at the Maine State Employees Association office located at 65 State Street at 4pm previous to the start of the evening session at 5pm. We will be discussing the protocols for being in the state house as well as the viewing gallery. All officers attending must come to this meeting.

If we have a large number of officers and firefighters we will be working on a system to cycle people between the halls in the capitol and the gallery. This is because we have been asked by the house leadership to keep the presence in the halls limited to 20 people at a time. This is also why it will be important to come to the MSEA office first.

Dress for the capitol will be standard uniform (with permission from your Chief), suit or business casual. In civilian clothes, remember to wear something that identifies you as a police officer. If you are not in uniform DO NOT CARRY YOUR FIREARM!

There is no guarantee about what specific time the bill will be read on the floor. The evening session will begin at approximately 5PM and it may not be until 7 or 8 PM (possibly later) before LD 1021 is read. Our job is to be visible in the halls as well as the Gallery and that will be a big part of our presence from 5 PM on. 

Those members wishing to be part of this important step in the passage of LD 1021 need to contact me before NOON tomorrow @ 233-3019 to confirm your attendance and allow for an accurate count and if you have any questions. Thank you and hope to see you there.  

 

Directions to MSEA Office, Augusta

 

Update: 04-10-2006

On Friday, coalition members met briefly with Rep. Duplessie. We discussed what could or would be happening this upcoming week. There is growing confidence that sometime this week, probably  Wednesday through Friday, LD 1021 will be coming up for a vote.

One good reason for this is that the session is coming to a close. So the Bill will have to be acted on before then. While we’re looking for a few members on Monday, Tuesday through Friday are beginning to be critical for showing our support up in the halls of Augusta. I am hoping that I’ll have at least 24 to 48 hours to notify your leaders of the day of the vote. But, as we have learned up here time and time again the time table is determined by the political process and posturing of both parties. So it wouldn’t be unreasonable for notification of the vote to be less then 24 hours. Once we know, we’ll make every attempt to get the word. Unit leaders need to look into paging cells and pagers.

We need to keep a moderate presence in the halls while the Bill goes through the process and a much larger presence the day(s) of the vote. This will help to maintain the support of our representatives by reminding them of our presence. We will lobby as needed. Your efforts to make the pilgrimage to Augusta would be greatly appreciated AND IS NEEDED! For those of you that can’t make a trip or feel uncomfortable with going, please consider covering someone else in your unit so that they can go. If the bill is passed, it will STILL need to go to the Appropriations committee so be prepared to continue the lobbying effort after the vote to get it passed in appropriations. We need the support of ALL MAP's members NOW MORE THEN EVER! 

We will still meet at the MSEA Office at 9 am before heading over to the state house. Directions to the Maine State Employees Office are located below.

 

Directions to MSEA Office, Augusta

 

UPDATE: 04-08-2006

This week LD 1021 was pulled back into committee for what turned out to be an attempt by the Republicans to modify the report. They wanted to remove the retirees, increase the contributions to 2% and delay implementation by 5 years. The Democrats were successful in preventing any amendments but the Republicans. Although the Bill has moved out of committee with a majority ought to pass (7-6) the Republicans will be allowed to attach a minority report which in essence will report their position and suggestions. Because of the possible ramifications of this minority report on the floor when LD 1021 is voted on, I am asking for MAP's members to step up again in preparation for LD 1021's vote on the floor.

We need MAP Members to assist in keeping a moderate presence in the halls while the Bill goes through the process. This will help to maintain the support of our representatives by reminding them that we are watching and expecting their continued support. Although it will be mostly "wallpaper duty" (Standing in the hall without actively lobbying, it is no less important then the work a your fellow members have done the last two weeks.

We will only lobby as needed for those who are still undecided and as identified by the Democratic leadership. I need members to make the trip Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of this coming  week. As we do not have a definite day the bill will go to the floor I cannot give you a date we will need to fill the halls with uniforms but we still need your help. Your presence would be greatly appreciated. Let me know what dates are possible for you to make. We will still meet at the MSEA Office at 9 am before heading over to the state house. Directions to the Maine State Employees Office are located below.

 

 

UPDATE:04-01-2006

Thanks to the efforts of over 200 fire fighters and police officers, an incredibly strong presence in Augusta was achieved to lobby LD 1021. The impact made by those who gave of their time has been immeasurable in sending a strong message to both the Republican and Democratic caucuses.

Direct lobbying made its impact on the legislators. With this in mind, a small group of law enforcement officers and firefighters, already selected, will keep a presence in the state house for the beginning of the week. You will not be asked to come to Augusta on Monday or Tuesday. We want you to hold tight and prepare for a large showing the day the bill is brought to the House floor for a vote.

We are not sure when that will be. It may be as soon as the middle of this week. We will have a better picture at the beginning of the week about the day and time the bill will go to a vote.  Every effort will be made to get the information out quickly so you can make plans.

We need you to be ready to make the trip to Augusta, in force, to line the halls. The bill is close and a strong presence is needed to ensure passage. Please wear your work uniform, department sweatshirt, or shirt with logo. Dress uniform is optional.

A sincere thank you to all of those who made their individual sacrifices to come to Augusta and let their voice be heard. Your work will prove to be what makes LD 1021 become reality for Maine’s Fire Fighters and Police.

Stay Safe,

Paul Gaspar

MAP Executive Director

 

UPDATE: 03-25-2006

The Present Language of LD1021 can be downloaded Here:

LD 1021 Language

Beginning March 16th, I will be working full time at the Maine State Employees Association Office in Augusta on the LD 1021 campaign. If you should have any questions or issues, please contact your local's assigned MAP Vice-President through their numbers found in the your Twombly book. If you encounter a critical incident contact your VP as well as Larry Gross whose information is also in the Twombly Book.

Paul 

As of today, we  have the FINAL draft of the bill.  It is  imperative that MAP's members begin contacting their legislators to support  THE BILL WITH A YES VOTE. It is extremely important that members come to Augusta in person to lobby the legislators from the town THEY LIVE IN not the district you work in....If you are not a true constituent from their district they are not concerned about your vote. When you have an answer, you can email it to me at map75@verizon.net 

The week of March 27th through the 31st will be the crucial week to have MAP members IN AUGUSTA to lobby face to face with legislators! As of this date less then 2% of MAP's membership have given the 2-3 hours it takes to be in Augusta. This is POOR at best and truly proves that fire fighters will be carrying us yet again IF this bill is to pass. If members want this benefit, do your part, carpool with other MAP locals, encourage fellow members to go or come on your own. 

Members must report to the Maine State Employees Association office at 65 State Street in Augusta @ 9:00 AM before going over to the state house to receive a brief (15-20 min.) lobbying training. Dress of the day should be business casual, preferably with a wind shirt or something with a police logo.

You will receive a set of "flash cards" with a legislator's picture and info as well as a check off box. At this point in the campaign you may be speaking with a legislator from outside your district as we are trying to reach all those who have not been lobbied or have not yet committed to supporting or opposing the bill.

Officers will then go to the state house in teams (1 cop/1 fire fighter, if possible), identify and talk with their legislators and mark whether or not their legislator is a "yes","no" or "undecided vote. 

Officers will then turn in their cards to either Richard Wurfel or Paul Gaspar. If you do not get your card in you can email your results to Paul Gaspar @ map75@verizon.net

There will also be 3-4 IMPORTANT dates in which we will need members in Augusta in Dress Blues to line the hallways leading into the House and Senate chambers as the legislators walk in to remind them that we are watching. As these dates are not definite, there will have to be a phone call within 24 hours of the date, or check your map email/website!

In person lobbying is critically important in ADDITION to calling/emailing/sending a letter without the "face to face" contact LD 1021 will NOT pass. Help all cops by taking the few hours to make the trip to Augusta. 

Remember, meet at 65 State Street Augusta @ 0900 hours for directions and dress neatly and casually with some police or fire identifying shirt or sweatshirt. Per request of the House and Senate leadership, Officers are asked to conceal their firearms as many alerts were brought to them by individual legislators who were not aware that police officers were in the building. 

Members Of The Appropriations And Finance Committee

Directions to MSEA Office, Augusta

 

UPDATE: 12-29-2005

Below is a message concerning the status of LD 1021 as of this date. This synopsis was put together by John Martell of the Portland FD and is a great snapshot of where we are at. Rather then re-inventing the wheel, I wanted to make sure this got out to all our locals. 

 Please print, post, and forward this to al your local members as well as neighboring dept's. If you have any questions please feel free to call/email me any time. Another mailing will be going out as soon as we are sure of which path the bill will be taking. for now, be patient and be prepared to help MAP and the PFFM in passing LD 1021.

 

Stay Safe

Paul Gaspar

MAP Executive Director


Hello,

Just want to give all of you an update as to where we stand at the moment. Since our meeting on December 16th in Augusta there has not been alot of visible action being done on the bill. However leadership has been very active behind the scenes putting it together. As you know the legislature comes into session next week. The reality is that as of this moment we do not know which path LD1021 will take. That will depend on how the governor embraces the bill and we are still waiting. I have listed below some points for you to share with your members. Please keep this bill alive with. We will be asking them to mobilize very soon.
Earlier in December the bill was voted unanimous out to pass but without funding by the labor committee.

Speaker of the House Richardson, Sen. Beth Edmonds and Rep. Bob Dupliesse are to be meeting with Gov. Baldachi to pursue the plan of having the governor attach LD 1021 to his supplemental budget that he will be giving to the upcoming session. As of yesterday they have not been able to get some time with him. Our goal is 100% funding of the bill, but we have to be open to some negotiations on this point. We will take a wait and see position on the governors response and work from there.
 
After this meeting some members from police and fire leadership will push for a meeting with the governor to press our case. The PFFM/MAP was very visible in the tax cap campaign and we would press this point home with him in this encounter.
 
Leadership has met with the governors advisors and Trish Riley, who runs Dirigo Health, about putting together a workable health plan and how the mechanics of it would be put together. No matter who manages the plan we will have coverage parity with what other public safety personnel are getting.
 
If the governor will not put it in his supplemental budget we would go back to committee and attach our funding plan of an increase in auto registration and inspection fees. The increase would be dedicated to LD1021. There would be some obvious resistance to this plan by some on the labor committee and that is where our lobbying efforts would be put into play. There has not been an increase in theses fees since 1999.
 
We also want to emphasis that LD1021 is not solely a health care plan for retired cops and firefighters. It is only one small part of the bill. It is a retirement plan that offers parity and portability for public safety employees who work in Maine. Leadership is putting together talking points for when we have our members lobbying in Augusta. Also we have put together lists of all the Rep. and Sen. in the legislature and will be asking that you have your members, spouses, friends, etc., contact those public officials from their home towns, not necessarily from where we work. We want to have this push to contact your representatives to be just prior to when the bill is put on the floor of the House. Timing here is critical, but the frustrating thing right now is that we do not know the path the bill will be taking right now. It all hinges on how the governor reacts to putting LD 1021 in the supplemental budget.
 
As you can see there are allot of unknowns at the moment. I know this may be frustrating for your members. Leadership has been working hard to bring this altogether. We need you to relay this information to your members and have them poised to write, call, and meet their representatives from their home towns. Then to be able to come to the Statehouse when the bill comes forward.
Thanks for your efforts. Contact me with any questions and I hope to have more information at the end of this week.

Stay safe,
John

 

UPDATE: 05-25-2005

For those who have not read the Labor Committee's Task Force report on LD 1021, you can have the opportunity to read it electronically at the State of Maine website at:

www.state.me.us/legis/opla/reports2.htm

The report is #5 on the list of reports from the 121st legislature, 2nd session and is the information portion only. As of yet they have not posted the appendices attached to the report. As soon as they are available I will be posting them here on the website.

Stay Safe,

Paul

 

UPDATE: 05-20-2005:

Last Friday, we heard that the Labor Committee had voted to recommend LD1021 for carryover until the next Legislative Session in January.  This week we learned that Rep. William Smith, Chair of the Committee had brought forward the motion for the carryover.  The motion passed with a unanimous vote.

We have been speaking with legislators all week, including Bill Smith, who knew that the bill was in trouble as written.  The three major domestic Insurance Carriers, MMG, York and Acadia have basically threatened to leave the state if the bill were enacted.  Acadia employees flooded legislators with calls and emails.  They indicated that Acadia said that they would leave the state if the bill were to be enacted, leaving the entire staff unemployed.  Insurance Lobbyists told some that our other Domestic insurers would do the same.   Many legislators believed that they would and we lost their support.  Some legislators have said that they are philosophically opposed to the funding mechanism and cannot support it until we find another funding mechanism. Other legislators, working towards Single Payer Health Care for all Maine citizens do not support us.  The message is clear.  This carryover is favorable to us.  Next year is an election year for every legislator.

 

Continuing budget problems, the continuing threat of the “Peoples Veto” and the Pentagon’s Base Closure Report have affected the political climate for our bill at this time.  Instead of trying to throw this campaign together and make it work in a few weeks, we now have 7 months to regroup and address the remaining issues and details required to give us a chance next year.  It has become clear that, over the summer, Coalition leaders must meet regularly to work the bill such that we can earn broad based support.

 

The Campaign plans to create a new tactic that, in addition to our member to legislator individual contact, would have Fire and Police members meet with their multiple legislators at the district level in order to persuade them to support our plan.  They would be arranged by local member units and would take place in the fall.  We have our work cut out for us.  We will only win if our membership, active and retired is willing to participate.  In January we will re-initiate the “Boots on the Ground” member to legislator lobbying effort.  In the meantime we must continue to involve our families and friends, asking them to contact their local legislators on our behalf.  

 

In your efforts, always portray this measure as an Act to provide municipalities with the ability to recruit and retain Firefighters and Police for life careers in their towns and cities.  In order to achieve that goal the health care initiative, brought forward by the Task Force, would seek to attract members to the service instead of choosing a career that would be more lucrative, less stressful and less dangerous.  We CAN be victorious.  We CAN earn this benefit.  It is going to require a tremendous work by Campaign Leadership AND the General Membership. 

 

For those of you who are outraged by the recent news about the overwhelming support of a bill to increase Teachers retirement subsidy to 100% - you are not alone.  It is an outrageous moment when this happens one week after our bill is carried over because a majority of legislators say they cannot support it.  Our advisors and all the legislators to whom we have spoken are totally confident that, should the Teacher’s bill reach the Special Appropriations table, it will die there.  All of the legislators seem to know that it could never live because of the financial realities facing Maine – and they all seem to know that voting against it would have been a political mistake.  We must not let it deter us in any way.  We must move forward on our own behalf, despite any obstacles.

Stay Safe,

 

Paul Gaspar

MAP Secretary Treasurer

Proposed Legislation

Summary of LD 1021  “An Act to Implement Task Force Recommendations relating to parity and Portability of Benefits for Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters.  

This is a Bill that has been “Read & Accepted” by both the House of Representatives and the Senate and Referred to the Committee on Labor. 

The Bill would allow members of the Maine State Retirement System to have their Health Insurance paid for upon Retirement as well as being able to take their coverage with them. Currently only state employees have this benefit which will provide for their health after their years of service. The law would have no cost to the state as it would be funded by a one percent surcharge on insurance of which we all know benefits from our practically free investigation of their insured's car accidents! MAP needs YOU to talk to your state representatives and have them pledge their support of this Bill! Use the links below to learn more and contact your representatives.

Read The Latest Alert/Update By Clicking Here

UPDATE 04-11-2005:

 

Thanks to the hard work by Jim Fahey, Don Blatchford and all MAP members who took the time to represent the organization at the recent Public Hearing of LD1021 on April 5th, the Labor Committee has PASSED the MSR Portability Bill and it will be going to the floor for of the legislature  for a vote!
 
The vote was not unanimous however and was split completely down party lines with all Democrats in favor, ALL Republicans AGAINST LD 1021. Now is the time for all MAP members to change this and contact their representatives, especially Republicans, and voice their support of this bill! Make sure that you pass this along and let as many coworkers and Fellow MAP departments know the importance of this. THIS IS A CRUCIAL FIRST STEP IN SECURING A SAFETY NET FOR THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED THEIR PART IN MAINE LAW ENFORCEMENT. See the Committee members below as well as contacting your local representatives