On May 5, 2025, State Senator Robert Jackson and members of the United Probation Officers Association (UPOA) rallied to call for the passage of New York State Senate Bill S7148. This important legislation would amend the Retirement and Social Security Law by adding a new section, 607-m, which would provide a heart disease presumption for Supervising Probation Officers, Probation Officers, and Probation Officer Trainees in New York City.

During a Press Conference, Senator Robert Jackson, the bill sponsor, said “Probation Officers and their colleagues in law enforcement put their health and safety on the line every day. It’s time they are afforded the same presumptive protections that other first responders receive. This legislation is a crucial step in recognizing the sacrifices of the hardworking Probation Officers who keep our neighborhoods safe, while giving New Yorkers involved in the criminal justice system a second chance.”

The bill stipulates that any Probation Officer, Supervising Probation Officer, or Probation Officer Trainee who passed a physical examination showing no evidence of heart disease upon entering service, and who later develops heart disease, shall be presumed to have contracted the condition in the line of duty. The bill also ensures that officers retiring under this provision will receive a pension equal to three-fourths of their final average salary.

In her remarks, UPOA President Powell emphasized the critical role that Probation Officers play in maintaining public safety. “Probation Officers, Supervising Probation Officers, and Probation Officer Trainees are essential to public safety in New York City. We are certified peace officers trained alongside our law enforcement counterparts, yet we lack the same benefits and protections,” Powell said. “This legislation will help ensure that our officers are not penalized for the physical toll their job demands.

“Probation Officers deserve the same level of protection as other law enforcement professionals. We cannot continue to ignore the physical toll of the job,” said Powell. “We need this legislation to help safeguard our officers and ensure they receive the benefits they have earned.”

The United Probation Officers Association urges all legislators to support Senate Bill S7148 in order to protect those who are committed to making New York City a safer place for all.