U.S. Rep. Tom Malinowski (D-NJ) has introduced legislation to allow first responders, including police officers, firefighters, and EMTs to buy into Medicare starting at age 50.
First responders frequently retire earlier than other workers and can experience gaps in health insurance coverage until they become eligible for Medicare at 65. Malinowski’s Expanding Health Care Options for Early Retirees Act would guarantee coverage to first responders after they turn 50, and their coverage would be identical to that provided under the current Medicare program.
“First responders always come when we need them,” Malinowski said in a statement. “This bill would ensure that when they retire, they have access to quality and reliable health coverage they have earned and deserve.”
Keya Vakil Keya is a reporter at COURIER, where he covers everything from healthcare to climate change. Prior to joining Courier Newsroom, Keya worked as a researcher in the film industry and dabbled in the political world.
