Federal Legislative Update for the 2025/2026
119th Session of Congress
Congressman Gregory F. Murphy, M.D. has Introduced HR 2382 in the 119th Congress, Titled “First Responder Retirement Parity Act”. This is the bill that would allow career firefighters on 501(c) Fire and Rescue/EMS Departments that contract with a local government to participate in a Government Pension Plan, such as LGERS. Since LGERS in NC is fully funded by the employer and the employee, this does not cost current participants in the program any additional monies, and does not reduce their benefits. It’s recognized that, of the NC Departments who employ career personnel, some may choose not to participate due to cost. However, in fairness, it will be available to them and their department. This bill will allow departments to retain experienced personnel who may leave to go to a department who has a defined benefit retirement system. It will also open up career opportunities for those who are currently in LGERS as more departments participate.
They are looking for a Senate companion for the bill and potential legislative vehicles to move it forward.
This Bill is a fairness bill, supported by the IAFC, NVFC, NCAFC’s, and the NCSFA. It has also been co-sponsored by many of the NC Congressional delegation including Hudson, Edwards, Moore and others. There is really no reason for any firefighter in NC to oppose this legislation. It’s about fairness to all career firefighters who place themselves at risk everyday.
Congressman Murphy is leading the initiative on this bill. Please call you Congressman and ask them to support HR 2382.
It currently has 7 republican cosponsors.
A copy of the bill can be found here.
Barry Overman, Executive Director, NCSFA
Tim Bradley, Executive Director Emeritus, NCSFA
Steven Roberson, 1st VP, NCSFA
