Jennifer Burzycki

Dear Members of the House Executive Departments and Administration Committee, I am writing to express my strong support for House Bill 727-FN, which seeks to restore the 20-year retirement option for Group II employees hired before July 1, 2011. When the retirement structure was changed, it fundamentally altered the agreement under which many dedicated public safety professionals entered service. These individuals made career decisions based on the promise of a 20-year retirement, and the retroactive change unfairly extended their required years of service. This not only impacted their financial and retirement planning but also placed an undue burden on those in physically demanding and high-stress roles. Restoring the 20-year retirement for these employees is a matter of fairness and integrity. It acknowledges the commitment and sacrifices made by our law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other Group II members who have dedicated their careers to serving our communities. By passing HB 727-FN, the Legislature can help ensure that these professionals receive the retirement benefits they were originally promised. I urge the committee to vote in favor of this bill and help restore fairness to our public safety workforce. Thank you for your time and consideration. Regards, Jennifer Burzycki