Brief Description: Adding members to the state board for volunteer fire fighters and reserve officers.

Sponsors: Representatives Haigh, Eickmeyer, Green, Morris, Crouse, Armstrong, Curtis, Sump, Dunshee and Clements.

Hearing Date: 1/25/06

Staff: Kristen Fraser (786-7148).

Background:

The Volunteer Fire Fighters' and Reserve Officers' Relief and Pension System (VFFRORPS) provides death, disability, medical, and retirement benefits to volunteer fire fighters and reserve officers in cities, towns, and fire protection districts. The system is funded by member and employer contributions and a portion of the fire insurance premium tax.

Employers are required to participate in the death, disability, and medical benefit plans offered by the VFFRORPS, but participation in the pension component is optional. About 18,000 members are covered by the death, disability, and medical benefits, and 12,000 members are covered by the pension benefits.

The State Board for Volunteer Fire Fighters and Reserve Officers (Board) administers this system. The Board consists of three members of a fire department covered by the VFFRORPS, no two of whom may be from the same congressional district. The members are appointed by the Governor for overlapping six-year terms.

Summary of Bill:
Two additional members are added to the State Board for Volunteer Fire Fighters and Reserve Officers, for a total of five Board members. No more than three of the members may be receiving relief or retirement pension payments under the VFFRORPS. In making appointments to the Board, the Governor must consider participants who are recommended for appointment by appropriate state associations.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.