Mandatory Retirement
Effective January 1, 2008, sheriff and fire safety members became exempt from mandatory retirement. Before the 2008 changes to retirement law, safety members hired before April 1, 1997 were subject to mandatory retirement at age 60. (District Attorney Investigators and lifeguards in L.A. County were already exempt from mandatory retirement at age 60 by order of the federal court.)
Safety members of the Sheriff’s Department or Fire Department hired prior to April 1, 1997 must submit certification by a County physician indicating they are capable of performing their assigned duties in accordance with the standards set forth by their department. LACERA must receive this certification 30 days before the member’s 60th birthday.
Safety members hired on or after April 1, 1997 are not subject to mandatory retirement. District Attorney Investigators and lifeguards in L.A. County are exempt from mandatory retirement at age 60 by order of the Federal Court. Certain exceptions apply; for additional information contact us to speak with a LACERA Retirement Benefits Specialist.