The Pennsylvania Senate unanimously approved legislation on April 21 to close a longstanding loophole in firefighter pension benefits, according to Sen. Devlin Robinson, who helped lead the initiative.
The measure, House Bill 797, updates the Second Class City Firemen Relief Law by clarifying eligibility for firefighter pensions. The bill ensures that surviving spouses—including those who remarry or were married after retirement—will continue to receive benefits. Rep. Jessica Benham sponsored the bill in the House, while Robinson introduced companion legislation in the Senate.
Currently, spouses of deceased firefighters lose their pension if they remarry—a restriction that was removed for Pittsburgh police families in 2006. This new legislation seeks to remove what Robinson described as unequal treatment among first responders and will provide consistent support for Pittsburgh firefighters’ families.
“Firefighters put their lives on the line for our communities, and their families deserve to be treated with fairness and dignity,” Robinson said. “This bill ensures surviving spouses are not penalized for moving forward with their lives and brings long-overdue parity between firefighters and police. It’s not about special treatment; it’s about doing right by the families who sacrifice so much in service to others.” Ralph Sicuro, president of the Pittsburgh Fire Fighters Union, said: “No one should have to choose between moving forward in life and losing the benefits their loved one earned through service and sacrifice. This antiquated rule was written into law in 1933, and it is long past time to remove it. We are grateful the General Assembly has recognized and fixed this injustice. This legislation honors not only our fallen firefighters, but also the families who stand beside them.”
Robinson has supported initiatives for veterans, first responders, law enforcement officers, small businesses and healthcare access according to his official website. He maintains district offices in Pittsburgh and Wexford as well as a capitol office in Harrisburg according to his official website. His priorities include lowering taxes; supporting veterans; aiding small businesses; expanding manufacturing opportunities; improving healthcare access according to his official website.
Robinson chairs the Senate Labor and Industry Committee and serves as vice chair of the Transportation Committee according to his official website. He continues a four-generation family tradition of military service according to his official website and represents parts of Allegheny County according to his official website.
The bill now moves forward for signature by Pennsylvania’s governor.
