A bill backed by Republicans in Ohio’s lame duck session is causing controversy among mayors from both parties. House Bill 296 would require cities to pay more towards pensions for law enforcement, leading to fewer police officers and smaller pay raises. The bill aims to increase the amount contributed to the Ohio Police and Fire pension fund by an estimated $80 million a year, which cities argue they cannot afford.
Mayors like Shammas Malik of Akron are speaking out against the bill, warning of potential layoffs and cuts to public safety services. Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz called the bill anti-police and anti-fire, saying it would devastate public safety in municipalities. The bill has passed the House Pensions Committee, but mayors are urging lawmakers to hold off until further study is conducted on the pension fund.
Supporters of the bill, including the Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio, argue that law enforcement officers have already made concessions and it is time for cities to contribute. They claim that the increased contributions are necessary to ensure the pension fund’s solvency. Critics, however, point out that there have been no financial controversies involving the Ohio Police and Fire pension fund, unlike other funds like the State Teachers Retirement System.
The debate surrounding House Bill 296 highlights the tension between cities, law enforcement, and state lawmakers over pension funding and public safety services. Mayors are calling for a reevaluation of the bill, while supporters argue that the increase is necessary to secure the pension fund’s future.
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