As a retired CAL FIRE firefighter and Chico resident, I believe AB 1383 represents a thoughtful, responsible step forward in supporting the long-term health and stability of California’s fire service.
Firefighting is a physically demanding career with well-documented risks, including higher rates of cancer, injury, and post-traumatic stress injury. AB 1383 addresses this by reducing the normal retirement age for firefighters to 55, rather than the current age of 57. Two years may seem short, but firefighting catches up with you, and the things I did at 35 were significantly more challenging at 50, never mind 57.
The bill also maintains the core safeguards established under pension reform in 2012. Every provision applies only to future service, with the benefits only accruing prospectively. There are no retroactive increases and no fiscal rollbacks that have delivered billions in savings.
AB 1383 also gives local governments flexibility. Cities and fire agencies can choose what works best for them through bargaining, rather than being locked into a system that doesn’t reflect local needs. That local control is essential to maintaining strong recruitment and retention, particularly as departments across the state face increasing demands.
At its core, this measure is about balance, protecting our pension system while ensuring it remains fair for the people who rely on it. Supporting firefighters in a meaningful, responsible way is not a step backward. It’s an investment in the safety and resilience of our communities.
Written by Mike Lopez, Chico resident and Secretary-Treasurer of the California Professional Firefighters
Published on July 30, 2026, in the Chico Enterprise Record: Letter to the Editor: AB 1383 is a responsible way to support firefighters – Chico Enterprise-Record