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Law Enforcement Legislative Issues 2005 Legislative Achievements Bullet-Proof Vest Reimbursement Increase Local 320 supported and secured passage of legislation that increased the reimbursement rates for bullet-proof vests. As a result of these efforts, law enforcement officers now qualify for up to $1200 in cost reimbursement for soft body armor purchases. Before the law change, employers were required to contribute up to $300 and the state would contribute up to $300. This new law doubles those amounts in recognition of the rising costs of quality vests and the dangerous environment in which police officers work. $48 Million Increase in Local Government Aid (LGA) Local 320 supported and secured passage of additional LGA monies to municipalities. Generally, LGA dollars help offset property tax increases in local communities to help defray public safety costs. This year, an additional $48 million was directed to these efforts. Falsely Reporting Police Misconduct Local 320 supported and secured passage of language that would create the crime of falsely reporting police misconduct if the person knows the accusation is false. The new law makes it a misdemeanor if the reported act is not criminal in nature; and, a gross misdemeanor if the reported act is criminal. The law also requires restitution of expenses incurred in the investigation. Pension Rate Contribution Increases In recognition of the PERA P&F funding problems, Local 320 was successful in implementing a phase-in of contribution rate increase over a three year period. The Board of PERA had asked the legislature to mandate police and fire members to contribute the whole amount (2.8%) all at once. Radical Pension Fund Changes Local 320 was again successful in thwarting attempts to change law enforcement pension funds from a defined benefit plan to a defined contribution plan. Collective Bargaining Threats Each year numerous threats to our collective bargaining rights are assaulted. Through due diligence, Local 320 was able to preserve our rights to negotiate fair and equitable compensation. MNTLEL News MNTLEL Staff
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