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We are dedicated to the welfare and assistance of retired Los Angeles City Firefighters, Police Officers, their spouses or surviving spouses, dependent parents and children.
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Upcoming Events:
LARFPA Annual Barbecue
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Current News:
An Update from Peter Harris, Supervisor of the Retirement Coordination Unit, Regarding Retired ID Card Renewals
Good morning all, it is time for an update from your Department Retirement Coordinator Office.
First off, the topic that is on the minds of many of you, ID card renewals. For California residents, I have attempted to attach two PDF documents to this post, one is a desk note delineating the new procedures for renewals. The reader’s digest version is we need a live scan (fingerprints), qualification and new photograph. The other is the live scan form which you must take to your local live scan vendor or law enforcement agency who will do a live scan for you. There will be a cost associated with this at the time of the live scan. Those costs will cover the vendor fee and DOJ fees. This whole process can be accomplished via e-mail or US Postal Service. Forms have already started to be mailed to many of you who are waiting.
For those residing outside California, we are still working on some details. It appears that you will be required to find a local law enforcement agency who will roll your prints on print cards and send them to the California Department of justice, as Live Scan is a California only system and cannot be accessed electronically outside of California. Please bear with us a little longer as we hammer out those details with the Department of Justice.
For those of you who have ID cards expiring in the future, you can wait until they get close to expiring. It would be prudent to begin your process early.
Next, I have been getting many well wishes but also inquiries as to who my replacement will be upon my retirement. That is not going to be an easy question to answer. I have chosen to leave in what is going to be a pretty massive exodus from the Department in January. Just to give you an idea, I have already done the paperwork for over 50 people with end dates in January and it is only September. I am remarkably busy but not so inundated that I cannot keep up. I have been working closely with my Commanding Officer and I can tell you that she is just as committed as I am to ensure competent people are in place upon my departure.
However, the Department is experiencing some incredibly challenging times financially. The City has implemented a Separation Incentive Program (SIP) for Civilians and this is going to effect Personnel Division in a big way as we have many employees who this affects. Those are positions which will likely not be replaced. The entire Division is going to go through an overhaul so we can ensure essential functions are still performed. It is also possible that my position may not be filled right away with another sworn employee. I have argued vigorously that my position should be maintained as a Sworn Supervisory position, but the decision, ultimately, is not mine to make. We have discussed other options and have one on the table which I believe is a workable solution for the short term; however, no final decision has been made. I will keep you all informed.
As always, stay safe and healthy. I love and admire you all and am very much looking forward to joining your ranks as the retired ones and spending some quality time with my wife.
Peter Harris, Sergeant
First off, the topic that is on the minds of many of you, ID card renewals. For California residents, I have attempted to attach two PDF documents to this post, one is a desk note delineating the new procedures for renewals. The reader’s digest version is we need a live scan (fingerprints), qualification and new photograph. The other is the live scan form which you must take to your local live scan vendor or law enforcement agency who will do a live scan for you. There will be a cost associated with this at the time of the live scan. Those costs will cover the vendor fee and DOJ fees. This whole process can be accomplished via e-mail or US Postal Service. Forms have already started to be mailed to many of you who are waiting.
For those residing outside California, we are still working on some details. It appears that you will be required to find a local law enforcement agency who will roll your prints on print cards and send them to the California Department of justice, as Live Scan is a California only system and cannot be accessed electronically outside of California. Please bear with us a little longer as we hammer out those details with the Department of Justice.
For those of you who have ID cards expiring in the future, you can wait until they get close to expiring. It would be prudent to begin your process early.
Next, I have been getting many well wishes but also inquiries as to who my replacement will be upon my retirement. That is not going to be an easy question to answer. I have chosen to leave in what is going to be a pretty massive exodus from the Department in January. Just to give you an idea, I have already done the paperwork for over 50 people with end dates in January and it is only September. I am remarkably busy but not so inundated that I cannot keep up. I have been working closely with my Commanding Officer and I can tell you that she is just as committed as I am to ensure competent people are in place upon my departure.
However, the Department is experiencing some incredibly challenging times financially. The City has implemented a Separation Incentive Program (SIP) for Civilians and this is going to effect Personnel Division in a big way as we have many employees who this affects. Those are positions which will likely not be replaced. The entire Division is going to go through an overhaul so we can ensure essential functions are still performed. It is also possible that my position may not be filled right away with another sworn employee. I have argued vigorously that my position should be maintained as a Sworn Supervisory position, but the decision, ultimately, is not mine to make. We have discussed other options and have one on the table which I believe is a workable solution for the short term; however, no final decision has been made. I will keep you all informed.
As always, stay safe and healthy. I love and admire you all and am very much looking forward to joining your ranks as the retired ones and spending some quality time with my wife.
Peter Harris, Sergeant
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CA Residents - Retired ID Renewal Instructions
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Live Scan Request Form
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The Board of Directors of the Los Angeles Retired Fire & Police Association unanimously oppose Mayor Garcetti’s position of defunding the Los Angeles Police Department by drastically cutting the budget for the upcoming year. The Mayor along with several City Councilmembers have taken the position that the budget and the mission of the LAPD should be reduced. These actions are being taken in response to questionable police actions in two incidents across the country.
The two incidents are tragic. These two occurrences are not indicative of the type of police service provided by the LAPD. We all know the LAPD to be the highest-trained, most progressive, and transparent police department in the United States. Since the early 1990’s we have set the highest bar of police reform for other departments to emulate. By any objective standard, the LAPD is low in the use of force incidents, officer-involved shootings, and fatal encounters with criminal suspects. Furthermore, there is no analytical evidence officers from the LAPD target any one demographic category. We all know the leadership and the hardworking men and women of the LAPD are never satisfied with the status quo, and they will continue to strive to improve every day.
The Mayor, City Councilmembers and the Police Commission now appear ready to disregard or ignore the many years of internal police reform, trust and the multitude of community-police partnerships formed. In short, it appears they have turned their collective backs on us. The LAPD has made significant strides in many segments of the community, including investing in the future of the youth of Los Angeles through the cadet program and other community-based initiatives such as gang intervention. While there is work to be done, we as members of the LAPD stand ready to continue to be a part of the solution. However, we should NOT be painted with the very ugly, broad brush of being portrayed and purveyors of racism and “police brutality.” Many officers have dedicated their entire careers to making a difference in the lives of Angelenos. Some have made the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives in the service and protection of this city we have sworn to protect and serve.
We are asking all of our members, police and fire, to take the time to communicate your thoughts with the Mayor, members of the Police Commission, and City Councilmembers.
Below are email links to the important people you need to contact. Please take the time to share your thoughts. Let your voice be heard.
Mayor Eric Garcetti:
mayor.helpdesk@lacity.org
Board of Police Commissioners:
policecommission@lapd.online
City Council Member, District 1 - Gil Cedillo:
Gilbert.Cedillo@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 2 - Paul Krekorian:
councilmember.krekorian@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 3 - Bob Blumenfield:
councilmember.blumenfield@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 4 - David E. Ryu:
david.ryu@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 5 - Paul Koretz:
paul.koretz@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 6 - Nury Martinez:
councilmember.martinez@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 7 - Monica Rodriguez:
councilmember.rodriguez@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 8 - Marqueece Harris-Dawson:
councilmember.harris-dawson@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 9 - Curren D. Price, Jr.:
councilmember.price@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 10 - Herb Wesson, Jr.:
councilmember.wesson@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 11 - Mike Bonin:
councilmember.bonin@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 12 - John Lee:
councilmember.Lee@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 13 - Mitch O'Farrell:
councilmember.ofarrell@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 14 - Jose Huizar:
councilmember.huizar@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 15 - Joe Buscaino:
councilmember.buscaino@lacity.org
Together, retired police and fire, we can present a strong, united front and make sure these activists do not derail the fine efforts of our proud Department. We need to help keep the LAPD strong and an effective force in keeping the peace and order in the city.
Fraternally Yours,
LARFPA Board of Directors
The two incidents are tragic. These two occurrences are not indicative of the type of police service provided by the LAPD. We all know the LAPD to be the highest-trained, most progressive, and transparent police department in the United States. Since the early 1990’s we have set the highest bar of police reform for other departments to emulate. By any objective standard, the LAPD is low in the use of force incidents, officer-involved shootings, and fatal encounters with criminal suspects. Furthermore, there is no analytical evidence officers from the LAPD target any one demographic category. We all know the leadership and the hardworking men and women of the LAPD are never satisfied with the status quo, and they will continue to strive to improve every day.
The Mayor, City Councilmembers and the Police Commission now appear ready to disregard or ignore the many years of internal police reform, trust and the multitude of community-police partnerships formed. In short, it appears they have turned their collective backs on us. The LAPD has made significant strides in many segments of the community, including investing in the future of the youth of Los Angeles through the cadet program and other community-based initiatives such as gang intervention. While there is work to be done, we as members of the LAPD stand ready to continue to be a part of the solution. However, we should NOT be painted with the very ugly, broad brush of being portrayed and purveyors of racism and “police brutality.” Many officers have dedicated their entire careers to making a difference in the lives of Angelenos. Some have made the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives in the service and protection of this city we have sworn to protect and serve.
We are asking all of our members, police and fire, to take the time to communicate your thoughts with the Mayor, members of the Police Commission, and City Councilmembers.
Below are email links to the important people you need to contact. Please take the time to share your thoughts. Let your voice be heard.
Mayor Eric Garcetti:
mayor.helpdesk@lacity.org
Board of Police Commissioners:
policecommission@lapd.online
City Council Member, District 1 - Gil Cedillo:
Gilbert.Cedillo@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 2 - Paul Krekorian:
councilmember.krekorian@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 3 - Bob Blumenfield:
councilmember.blumenfield@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 4 - David E. Ryu:
david.ryu@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 5 - Paul Koretz:
paul.koretz@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 6 - Nury Martinez:
councilmember.martinez@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 7 - Monica Rodriguez:
councilmember.rodriguez@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 8 - Marqueece Harris-Dawson:
councilmember.harris-dawson@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 9 - Curren D. Price, Jr.:
councilmember.price@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 10 - Herb Wesson, Jr.:
councilmember.wesson@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 11 - Mike Bonin:
councilmember.bonin@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 12 - John Lee:
councilmember.Lee@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 13 - Mitch O'Farrell:
councilmember.ofarrell@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 14 - Jose Huizar:
councilmember.huizar@lacity.org
City Council Member, District 15 - Joe Buscaino:
councilmember.buscaino@lacity.org
Together, retired police and fire, we can present a strong, united front and make sure these activists do not derail the fine efforts of our proud Department. We need to help keep the LAPD strong and an effective force in keeping the peace and order in the city.
Fraternally Yours,
LARFPA Board of Directors
We're Here to Help!
The Los Angeles Retired Fire and Police Association® is an organization that is always here to support retirees and the people that depend on them. But right now, in this unprecedented and uncertain time, we need your help accomplishing that goal. We call upon our members to look out for their neighbors, friends, and family members that might be in need of some extra support. We have resources that can help you in accomplishing this, including our liaison with many other organizations such as the Firemen’s Relief Association, the Police Relief Association, and Police Protective League. Additionally, we can offer the support of our Benevolent Association, who’s mission is to obtain resources for and administer temporary assistance to pensioners of the Los Angeles Fire Department and Los Angeles Police Department, their spouses, widows and widowers, and dependent parents. If you find yourself affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, you can send an email to benevolent@larfpa.com or call the LARFPA office at (626) 285-5138. During this unusual time, it is important to look out for those around us, and we at LARFPA are always here to help.
LAPRA Office Working Offsite
Firemen's Relief Association FAQ for COVID-19, Benefit Coverage
TESTING FOR COVID-19
Does LAFRA cover the test for COVID-19?
LAFRA will waive cost sharing (copayment, coinsurance, and deductible) for COVID-19 testing during this national emergency. We are also waiving cost sharing for COVID-19 testing related visits during this same time, whether the testing related visit is received in a health care provider’s office, an urgent care center, an emergency department or through a telehealth visit.
Other costs beyond the test and test-related physician office, urgent care, emergency room, and telehealth visit and items and services related to the visit will be covered based on terms in the medical plan and applicable state and federal mandates. Therefore, deductibles, copayments and coinsurance would apply to care, and certain services or supplies beyond the test itself and test-related provider visit.
TELEHEALTH SERVICES
Is there a Telehealth option for members?
Yes. Members may contact a medical provider through LAFRA’S Telehealth vendor – LiveHealth Online. Telehealth visits to a provider outside of LiveHealth Online will not be covered unless, it is for the screening of COVID-19.
Will LAFRA waive cost share for Telehealth visits?
To increase flexibility when it is needed most, we are expanding our telehealth policies to make it easier for Members to connect with a healthcare provider.
DESIGNATED LIVEHEALTH ONLINE TELEHEALTH
LAFRA will waive the upfront collection of cost-share for medical telehealth visits through LiveHealth Online until June 14, 2020. You can visit with a board-certified doctor from the comfort of home, minimizing the risk of exposure to yourself and others. Doctors are available 24/7.
COVID-19 SCREENING
LAFRA is waiving cost-sharing for in-network and out-of-network telehealth screening-related visits for COVID-19. Telehealth screenings for COVID-19 are not limited to LiveHealth Online providers.
Can telehealth providers evaluate symptoms and send the individual for a COVID-19 test?
A telehealth provider may determine whether the individual should be sent to a CDC approved location for a COVID-19 test. The COVID-19 test and test-related telehealth visit is paid at no cost share.
PRESCRIPTION BENEFITS
Have any changes been made to the prior authorization program for medications covered through the pharmacy benefit? Are you extending authorizations?
Yes, we have identified prior authorizations expiring for select medications between March 1 and July 1st and are extending these for 90 days. Opioid medications are excluded from the automatic extension.
Does LAFRA cover the test for COVID-19?
LAFRA will waive cost sharing (copayment, coinsurance, and deductible) for COVID-19 testing during this national emergency. We are also waiving cost sharing for COVID-19 testing related visits during this same time, whether the testing related visit is received in a health care provider’s office, an urgent care center, an emergency department or through a telehealth visit.
Other costs beyond the test and test-related physician office, urgent care, emergency room, and telehealth visit and items and services related to the visit will be covered based on terms in the medical plan and applicable state and federal mandates. Therefore, deductibles, copayments and coinsurance would apply to care, and certain services or supplies beyond the test itself and test-related provider visit.
TELEHEALTH SERVICES
Is there a Telehealth option for members?
Yes. Members may contact a medical provider through LAFRA’S Telehealth vendor – LiveHealth Online. Telehealth visits to a provider outside of LiveHealth Online will not be covered unless, it is for the screening of COVID-19.
Will LAFRA waive cost share for Telehealth visits?
To increase flexibility when it is needed most, we are expanding our telehealth policies to make it easier for Members to connect with a healthcare provider.
DESIGNATED LIVEHEALTH ONLINE TELEHEALTH
LAFRA will waive the upfront collection of cost-share for medical telehealth visits through LiveHealth Online until June 14, 2020. You can visit with a board-certified doctor from the comfort of home, minimizing the risk of exposure to yourself and others. Doctors are available 24/7.
COVID-19 SCREENING
LAFRA is waiving cost-sharing for in-network and out-of-network telehealth screening-related visits for COVID-19. Telehealth screenings for COVID-19 are not limited to LiveHealth Online providers.
Can telehealth providers evaluate symptoms and send the individual for a COVID-19 test?
A telehealth provider may determine whether the individual should be sent to a CDC approved location for a COVID-19 test. The COVID-19 test and test-related telehealth visit is paid at no cost share.
PRESCRIPTION BENEFITS
Have any changes been made to the prior authorization program for medications covered through the pharmacy benefit? Are you extending authorizations?
Yes, we have identified prior authorizations expiring for select medications between March 1 and July 1st and are extending these for 90 days. Opioid medications are excluded from the automatic extension.
2020 COLA
Yesterday, March 19th, the Pension Commission approved 3.4% as the 2020 Cost of Living Adjustment. For Tier 2 Pensioners the COLA is 3.4%. For Pensioners in Tiers 3 & 4, the COLA is 3.0%. There is no COLA Bank for Tiers 3 & 4. The COLA for Tiers 5 & 6 are 3.0%; 0.4% goes into your COLA Bank.
The Pension Commission also approved 5.5% COLA on the subsidy for non-Medicare medical plans. The exact COLA each member will receive is dependent of the medical plan you have and the number of dependents within your plan. For example, if a 5.5% crease would make the subsidy more than the premium amount, you will only receive an increase up to the premium amount. If the 5.5% subsidy increase does not cover your full premium, then you are responsible for that amount above the subsidy.
The Pension Commission also approved 5.5% COLA on the subsidy for non-Medicare medical plans. The exact COLA each member will receive is dependent of the medical plan you have and the number of dependents within your plan. For example, if a 5.5% crease would make the subsidy more than the premium amount, you will only receive an increase up to the premium amount. If the 5.5% subsidy increase does not cover your full premium, then you are responsible for that amount above the subsidy.
Summer 2020 Newsletter available now: Log in to view
Firearms Qualification Schedule : TBD
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Upcoming Events:
Our General Membership Meeting and Barbecue scheduled for September 3rd have been CANCELLED due to the COVID-19 virus. If you have any questions, concerns, please call the office at (888) 288-5073 or email info@larfpa.com. |
LARFPA Annual Holiday Celebration Photos |
Donate to the Benevolent Association
9521 Las Tunas Dr., Suite 4 - Temple City, CA 91780
(888) 288-5073 - (323) 283-4441 - (626) 285-5138
Fax: (626) 285-1461 - email: info@larfpa.com
(888) 288-5073 - (323) 283-4441 - (626) 285-5138
Fax: (626) 285-1461 - email: info@larfpa.com