Basic Items Needed When Filing for PERA

In addition to workers’ compensation benefits, injured police officers, firefighters, and corrections officers may be eligible for significant retirement and disability benefits, and more under the Minnesota Public Employee’s Retirement Association (PERA). To address some frequently asked questions, Meuser, Yackley & Rowland attorney, Katie Ebnet, provides some basic information and documentation required when filing for […]
Minnesota Corrections Association Annual Training Institute

I am proud to have represented Meuser, Yackley & Rowland, P.A. at this year’s MCA Annual Training Institute, hosted by Grandview Lodge in Nisswa, Minnesota. The Minnesota Corrections Association (MCA) was founded in 1933 and works tirelessly to promote the “Professional development of individuals working in all aspects of the corrections field and to promote […]
Applying for Duty Disability and Social Security Benefits

Some first responders have the ability to apply for both PERA or MSRS Duty Disability benefits and Social Security benefits. There are different criteria for these different types of benefits and you may be eligible for both depending on how many years of service you’ve contributed into both plans. It is important to remember that […]
The Option to Medical Out Instead of Retiring Under PERA

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% […]
Managed Medical Review Organization

As part of the PERA application process, your application gets submitted to Managed Medical Review Organization (MMRO). They are a third-party company that PERA contracts with to review all of your medical records with them. Once they receive your application, they will review your medical records, and determine whether or not you sustained a […]
Minnesota Firefighters and Cancer

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 […]
Caring for the Sheepdogs: Police Officer Suicide

Prayer of the Sheepdog By Roger Temple The Knights of Old were Men of Honor Who used their Might For Right! Today they’re known as Sheepdogs, Those who carry on the fight. I am a tired old Sheepdog, The guardian of my flock. I keep the predators at bay And stand watch around the clock. […]
Coordination of Benefits Under PERA

One question we are often asked at Meuser, Yackley & Rowland, P.A. is whether you can receive PERA Duty Disability benefits and still work in another job. We are also asked if you can receive PERA Duty Disability benefits and Minnesota Workers’ Compensation benefits at the same time. The answer to both questions is yes, but there are some limitations. PERA […]
PTSD: A Silent Epidemic

Every day we are reminded of the risks that law enforcement officers face. Media reports focus on officer shootings leading to the misperception that gunfire is the greatest risk to which an officer is exposed. No one can deny the inherent risk of an officer being shot but the startling fact is that more officers […]
Ron Meuser Presented at the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association Union Presidents Meeting

Our state’s first responders are involved with on-the-job incidents each day that are more than the average person can imagine. What they witness and the situations they deal with take a toll on their mental health and it’s more important than ever to support those who protect us and ease the stigma of getting help. We’re honored […]