Gov. Mills signs into law Sen. Libby bill to further improve health insurance program for retired firefighters, law enforcement officers

AUGUSTA — This week, Gov. Janet Mills signed into law a bill sponsored by Sen. Nate Libby, D-Lewiston, to help retired firefighters and law enforcement officers. As an emergency measure, LD 37, “An Act To Amend the Laws Concerning the Retired County and Municipal Law Enforcement Officers and Municipal Firefighters Health Insurance Program,” is now in effect.

“Standing up for our first responders is an issue people from across the political spectrum can agree on. As a legislator, I know how important it is to support the hardworking law enforcement officers and firefighters who protect our communities, both during their time of service and after they retire,” said Sen Libby. “I’m grateful to the governor for signing this important measure into law.”

LD 37 would improve the health insurance plan for retired county and municipal law enforcement officers and municipal firefighters, including expanding the open enrollment period. In the 129th Legislature, Sen. Libby sponsored LD 1674, “An Act To Amend the Laws Concerning the Retired County and Municipal Law Enforcement Officers and Municipal Firefighters Health Insurance Program,” which made amendments to the program to ensure earned benefits are accrued and disbursed fairly. That bill was signed into law by Gov. Janet Mills in 2019. 

The Maine Association of Police and Professional Firefighters of Maine both submitted testimony supporting LD 37.