Legislation seeks to allow new officers into Michigan State Police hybrid retirement system
LANSING, Mich. (March 24, 2023) — Sens. John Cherry (D-Flint), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City) and Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.) recently introduced legislation that would allow conservation, corrections, and motor carrier officers to become members of the Michigan State Police (MSP) hybrid retirement system. Senate Bills 165, 166, and 167 will place new hires into the MSP retirement system and allows current officers to make a written statement showing that they have elected to move retirement systems.
“There is an urgent need for this change to be offered, not only to benefit future officers, but those who have dedicated their lives to service,” said Sen. Cherry. “Resolving this issue will reduce significant problems for the Departments of Natural Resources and Corrections, as well as MSP, in hiring and retaining staff.”
“On behalf of our 6,000 members, I would like to thank Senators Cherry, McDonald Rivet, and Shink for prioritizing Public Safety Officers in Michigan,” said Byron Osborn, President of the Michigan Corrections Organization. “Corrections Officers and Forensic Security Assistants working in our state facilities play an important role in assuring the safety and well-being of all Michigan citizens, and the introduction of this bill package shows that these legislators recognize the need to support these public safety employees for the difficult and dangerous work they do.”
Conservation officers share many of the duties and receive much of the same training as the Michigan State Police. They also serve as first responders during natural disasters and other life-threatening situations. Motor carrier officers are armed members of the Michigan State Police responsible for commercial vehicle enforcement. They enforce traffic safety laws on commercial vehicles, contribute to homeland security efforts, and respond to emergency situations.
Senate Bills 165, 166, and 167 have been referred to the Senate Labor Committee and are currently awaiting a hearing.
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