Legislative Information

So, where exactly does my FIREPac “100 Plus Club” money go?

The dues deduction for FIREPac “100 Plus Club” donations was initiated over three years ago by Brother Patrick Morrison through the assistance of the Jennifer Berigan, IAFF. Local 2068 members can join FIREPac by contacting Brother John Niemiec or stop by the Union Office to fill-out the applicable payroll deduction forms. Typically, most members “check” the box for $5 dollars to be deducted out of your paycheck for 24 pay periods. Thus, a member contributes $120 dollars annually to the “100 Plus Club.” However, individuals electing to have additional monies deducted from their paychecks are most certainly welcome (e.g. $10 or $20 dollars per pay periods) to do so.

Additionally, members have asked if they are required to “rejoin” annually. The answer is “no.” Unless, members wishing to discontinue participation in the “100 Plus Club” or members wishing to increase their contributions are asked to once again contact Brother Niemiec or stop by the Union Office for the applicable forms.

Due to the tireless and unselfish efforts of Brothers Mohler, Kincaid, Morrison, and a host of other union brothers and sisters over the years, our members have enjoyed the opening of the Public Safety Occupational Health Center; increases to the retirement multiplier; increases for retired members; the DROP Plan; annual compensation studies with neighboring jurisdictions and thus leading to salary increases; a comprehensive Hepatitis C Screening Program; “state-of-the-art” breathing apparatus; the best-of-the-best as it relates to personal protective equipment; the inception of the Safety Officer Program coupled with the Occupational Health and Safety Division; the list goes on and on and on. These accomplishments were “handled” to us by the Board of Supervisors because it was and still is the right thing to do…right? Wrong! Our battle cry is simple yet effective…POLITICAL ACTION!

You want pay raises…POLITICAL ACTION! You want possible health care benefits/relief for retirees…POLITICAL ACTION! Hopefully you get the point. Living and/or working in a “right to work state” requires…POLITICAL ACTION!

To further underscore the importance of Political Action you don’t have to look to far back. This past November 4, your Union endorsed 32 candidates, Democrats and Republican alike, based upon their voting records and/or completing questionnaires in support of fire fighter and paramedics issues. Of the 32 candidates we endorsed 5 candidates lost. However, one of our endorsed candidates, we lost. Tom Bolin (I), we actually picked-up his challenger, the winner, Delegate Mark Sickles (D). Thus, we lost 4 seats in lieu of 5 giving Local 2068 the respect and clout we deserve within the political arena.

Okay, okay, let’s answer the question, “Where exactly does my FIREPac “100 Plus Club money go?” Monies contributed through the membership towards the “100 Plus Club” financially assist our endorsed candidates with their individual campaigns. Our endorsed candidates, Democrats and Republicans, who support OUR issues, receive monetary and personnel (Local 2068 members) support in an effort to win the election.

In summary, I am very excited about the newly elected Board of Supervisors, State Senators and Delegates, in working tirelessly to ensure that OUR issues are being addressed. Additionally, I hope that my energy and commitment to the political arena/process is infectious (hehe) where YOU, the future of this fine organization get involved. Whether it’s through signing up for the “100 Plus Club” and/or assisting with putting up campaign signs…THE LOCAL NEEDS YOU TO GET INVOLVED!

Remember my brothers and sisters; it’s not too late to sign up for FIREPac “the 100 Plus Club.” Five dollars deducted directly out of your paycheck to strengthen our efforts is a small donation for a much larger investment…your health, safety, and welfare. SIGN-UP TODAY. Contact Brother Niemiec at 571.238.8169 to have me come by your work location to sign you up and yet receive a token for your support…A heavy gray job shirt with denim elbows and collar along with the “IAFF President’s FIREPac” lapel pin. You receive these items the day you join the “100 Plus Club.”

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our current “100 Plus Club” members and those members who have and continue to assist me with various political campaigns. I need you to help me so in turn I can help you…POLITICAL ACTION!