Hudson, NC Colleagues Champion Legislation to Support NC Firefighters, EMS Personnel
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) joined Representative Greg Murphy, M.D. (NC-03), along with Representatives Virginia Foxx (NC-05), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), David Rouzer (NC-07), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Addison McDowell (NC-06), and Tim Moore (NC-14) in introducing legislation to allow North Carolina volunteer firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) personnel to join a state or local retirement plan.
"North Carolina’s firefighters and EMS personnel, like those involved in the Hurricane Helene relief efforts, risk their lives every day to keep our communities safe," said Rep. Hudson. "These brave heroes deserve access to the same retirement benefits as their state-employed counterparts. I’m proud to support this legislation to ensure they are taken care of."
"North Carolinians depend on the selfless service of first responders every single day," said Rep. Murphy. "It is only fitting that these dedicated individuals should be able to depend on the government to provide them with a reliable retirement plan. The First Responders Retirement Parity Act ensures just compensation for their contributions to community safety and support for when their service comes to an end."
Rep. Hudson with Puppy Creek Fire Department Volunteer Fire Chief John Joseph, as well as local first responders and officials.
Background
The current tax code prevents full-time nonprofit firefighters and EMS personnel from joining the state retirement system. In North Carolina, 74% of fire departments are non-profit and employ 5,527 paid personnel who could be affected.
This legislation would amend the code to include these volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel in governmental retirement plans.
Read the full bill text here.
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