FOP 7 Chicago Web Update - Pres Mike Shields

Fraternal Order of Police Chicago Lodge #7    Current Update September 3, 2013 Officer Safety Legislation Many members have been aware that they have been able to register their personal vehicles to their place of employment. Many also incorrectly believed that they could use their work address for their Illinois Drivers License and/or Illinois State ID Card. Senate Bill 1693 was signed into law by Governor Pat Quinn. Effective immediately, members can now use their work address for their Illinois Drivers License and/or Illinois State ID Card.

55+ Healthcare Update Any member between the ages of 55 and 59 who is planning to retire in 2014, while taking advantage of the premium-free healthcare benefit, must submit an electronic PAR form by October 1, 2013. At least one hundred (100) eligible applicants must apply by October 1, 2013 for this benefit to take effect. The Lodge has been notified that only forty (40) eligible applicants have applied to retire in 2014 thus far. We still need sixty (60) Officers to apply. The Lodge receives many calls from potential retirees who are concerned about whether the minimum number of one-hundred applications will be met. Officers, if you plan on retiring in 2014 submit your applications now. You will keep yourselves, and your fellow Officers, from worrying about whether we will reach the minimum number required. 2012 Ethics Statement Lawsuit Dismissed Forty-three members contacted the Lodge after they were assessed a $20.00 fee for allegedly not filing a timely 2012 Ethics Statement. These members were notified via Department email that they were required to file. Many of these members never accessed or viewed the email. These same members were later notified that they owed a $20.oo late filing fee via US Mail after the filing date had passed. The Lodge filed a class action lawsuit in Small Claims Court on behalf of these members. The Court recently dismissed the charge taking the unusual position that forty-three separate suits should have been filed. The Lodge has reviewed the dismissal and has decided not to proceed as the costs far would outweigh any monies that could be recouped.