Providence Firefighter Disability Pension Bill Nearing $16 Million

According to WPRI, a payroll record analysis of Providence records, the accidental disability pensions awarded to firefighters, will account for more than half of 2011’s $29 million dollars spent on pension payments.

In January, 438 firefighters received a taxpayer funded pension check. 258 of those receiving a check were accidental disability pensions. In providence, accidental disability pensions are not subject to taxes.

Steven Pare, the Providence Public Safety Commissioner, has claimed that he will look deeper into the police departments, fire departments and the pension costs and benefits once he takes charge.

Rhode Island appears to have a high number of disability pensions. In 2008, more than half (56%) of all pensions were due to accidental disability. In 2011, that rate inflated to 59%, more than any other category in Providence.

In 2011, Providence will pay more than $15 million in disability pension to former firefighters, again, more than any other category.

The numbers break down as follows: $160,056 for ordinary disability; $229,719 for court-awarded payments; $942,708 for accidental deaths; $1.5 million for fire widows; $2.1 million for accidental disabilities that lead to death and finally, $8.7 million for regular fire pensions.

Meanwhile, the Providence police department only makes up $7.1 million, or 30% of the $23.2 million dollar bill for 2011 pensions. To put it into perspective, 639 police officers received pension payments in comparison to the 438 firefighters receiving pensions.

Categories

    I didn't think there was a caring professional considerate attorney firm on the planet, but Troutman & Troutman proved me wrong. From the receptionist to the legal assistance to the attorney and more they were exceptional people.

    - Robert S.

    They did a fantastic job getting everything gathered up and getting the trial done as quickly as possible. Anytime I had a question they were patient and help me understand what was going on. Especially Christy and Charlie were great.

    - Michael M.

    Steve Troutman was able to get my short-term and long-term disability for me. Then Erin another lawyer for their firm got my Social security disability for me. Great people.

    - Billy S.

    Mr. Troutman walked me through the entire process. Heather was available each time I called, answered all my crazy questions, and helped me fill out forms along the way. I was never treated like I was wasting time.

    - Julia C.

    Erin and Keith were fabulous! They were compassionate, helpful, and very responsive! They made the process very smooth and painless every step of the way.

    - Valerie W.

We Are Here to Help 

Free & Confidential Consultations
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.