New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01181

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Establishes a temporary task force on the variable supplements fund program to make findings and recommendations.

Summary

Bill S01181 establishes a temporary task force to investigate the exclusion of disability pensioners from the Variable Supplements Fund (VSF) program, which supplements retirement allowances for New York City police and fire retirement system members. The task force will examine the eligibility criteria for disability retirees and recommend legislative changes to ensure fairness and equity in the VSF program. The task force will consist of eleven members appointed by various state and city officials, with the authority to conduct public hearings and issue subpoenas as needed.

Impact

The establishment of this task force could lead to significant changes in how disability pensioners are treated under the VSF program, potentially allowing more individuals to receive supplemental benefits. This may require amendments to existing state laws governing the VSF, impacting both the financial obligations of the city and the benefits received by disabled retirees. The task force's findings and recommendations could pave the way for future legislative actions aimed at reforming the VSF eligibility criteria.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S01181 appears to be one of support for the need to address the long-standing issues faced by disability retirees regarding their exclusion from the VSF. Discussions indicate a recognition of the importance of fairness and equity in pension benefits, although there may be concerns about the implications of any changes proposed by the task force.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the historical exclusion of most disabled firefighters from receiving VSF benefits, which has generated frustration among affected individuals and advocates. Some stakeholders may argue about the potential costs associated with expanding eligibility, while others emphasize the moral obligation to provide equitable benefits to all retirees, including those with disabilities.

Companion Bills

NY A06041

Same As Establishes a temporary task force on the variable supplements fund program to make findings and recommendations.

Previously Filed As

NY S01676

Establishes a temporary task force on the variable supplements fund program to make findings and recommendations.

NY A06041

Establishes a temporary task force on the variable supplements fund program to make findings and recommendations.

NY S07528

Extends the benefits of the variable supplements fund for transit police members of the New York city employees' retirement system for persons who retired on or after October 1, 1968.

NY A08267

Extends the benefits of the variable supplements fund for transit police members of the New York city employees' retirement system for persons who retired on or after October 1, 1968.

NY A10143

Establishes a fiscal cliff task force to conduct a study on fiscal cliffs in the state's public assistance programs and to make recommendations related thereto.

NY S08750

Establishes a fiscal cliff task force to conduct a study on fiscal cliffs in the state's public assistance programs and to make recommendations related thereto.

NY S06434

Increases benefits payable by the correction officers' variable supplements fund to beneficiaries.

NY A07346

Increases benefits payable by the correction officers' variable supplements fund to beneficiaries.

NY A11345

Establishes a task force to study and make recommendations on chronic absenteeism at public schools in the state of New York

NY S08537

Extends the benefits of the variable supplements fund to all New York city police officers, firefighters, housing police, transit police, correction officers and registered domestic partners.

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