Fire Rescue News - With pensions on the line, Gov. Christie gets an earful at N.J. Firemen's Convention in Wildwood

WILDWOOD - Gov. Chris Christie continued a long-standing tradition among New Jersey's governors: Getting booed by firefighters at the annual New Jersey State Firemen's Association Convention.

When Christie entered the Wildwood Convention Center at around 2 p.m. on Friday, he was met with.....Continue Reading 

a mix of loud booing as well as a fair amount of applause from roughly 7,000 firefighters from across the state.

As the booing continued, Christie began by saying, "I had some prepared remarks, but..." He was interrupted by more booing, at which point he made a motion with his hands that insinuated, "Bring it on."

"If you guys think you can shout me down, it's going to be a long day," Christie said.

The criticism aimed at Christie concerned his plan to reduce pension payouts by 5 percent for firefighters who retire after 25 years. In order to get 65 percent of their salaries as pension, they would have to work an additional five years.

Currently, firefighters can retire after 25 years of service regardless of their age to qualify for 65 percent of their salary as a pension.

Contact Ben Leach:  609-463-6712

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