On September 14, PORAC and California Professional Firefighters (CPF) hosted a rally on the west steps of the State Capitol, bringing together hundreds of peace officers, firefighters, association leaders and their families from across the state to urge Governor Gavin Newsom to sign AB 1383. The measure, which has been two years in the making and passed both houses with near-universal, bipartisan support, allows peace officers and firefighters to retire at 55, updates the pensionable compensation cap so California can compete for talent and allows greater flexibility at the bargaining table.

Led by the Sacramento Fire Fighters Pipes and Drums Band, PORAC and CPF members marched to the Governor’s Office to hand-deliver more than 8,000 letters from county supervisors, mayors, school boards and public safety members calling on him to sign the measure.

“There are not many days when a leader gets to stand with peace officers and firefighters. Stand with mayors, city councilmembers and county supervisors who have written to you from across the state. And stand with all organized labor in the same act. This is a rare opportunity, and it’s sitting on your desk right now,” President Brian Marvel said in his remarks directed at the governor. “One signature, and the men and women on these steps will be able to tell the next generation that California stands with its public safety workforce.”

Joining President Marvel in addressing attendees were union representatives, CPF President Darrell Roberts, Sacramento Police Officers Association Director Anthony Gamble and Sacramento Area Firefighters Local 522 Director Jeremy Gardella, along with legislators, Senator Tim Grayson, Assemblymember Damon Connolly, Assemblymember Matt Haney and Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen.

PORAC thanks our members and the CPF members who attended the rally and made our united call loud and clear in support of the first responders who serve our communities and the next generation of public safety professionals.