Police officers pay into the Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA). PERA offers a number of benefits to police officers who pay into PERA, one of which is a regular retirement pension. Under PERA once an officer reaches age 55 with at least 20 years of service they are eligible for a full pension which is 60% of their high five. While an officer can consider an early retirement starting at age 50 there can be significant penalties or other limitations on the benefits they would receive. In short, whether an officer works for Minneapolis, St. Paul or another department, retiring under PERA is simply not an option for many of Minnesota’s police officers.

What is an independent medical examination? 

An independent medical examination, or IME, is performed by a doctor at the request of an insurance company in a workers’ compensation case. Despite the title this medical examination will not be independent. The exam will not be conducted by a neutral third-party doctor, rather it will be performed by a doctor of the insurance company’s choosing. Often, large insurance companies will use the same doctor or group of doctors to perform these examinations. The insurance companies pay these doctors directly for the examination and a written report.

In Minnesota there is actually a presumption between firefighters and certain types of cancer based on research that is being done. The authority on this is the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and as we learn more about the different types of cancers and carcinogens, it has an effect on the law and the ability for injured firefighters to bring a claim. This can also have effect on the statute of limitations. If the firefighter has been diagnosed with cancer, it’s important that they reach out and talk to someone who specializes in this area of the law. That way they can get the latest information on their ability to bring a claim.