Employer Update

Eligible emergency dispatchers at public safety answering points (PSAPs) will have a one-time opportunity to opt out of moving to the Virginia Local Disability Program (VLDP) or an employer’s comparable program.

Key Details

• Who can opt out? Dispatchers employed on June 30 and July 1, 2025.
• Deadline: Opt-out forms must be completed and returned to employers by March 31. Employers then certify and promptly send forms to VRS.
• No action? Employees who do not submit forms will automatically move to VLDP or an employer’s comparable program on July 1.
• Important: This decision is irrevocable.

Background

Effective July 1, legislation (Acts of Assembly, Chapter 190) changes how disability coverage is provided to emergency dispatchers at PSAPs. All eligible dispatchers employed by participating political subdivisions will move to VLDP or a comparable program unless they opt out during the February 1-March 31 window.

Dispatchers hired on or after July 1, 2025, will move to VLDP or a comparable program on July 1, and cannot opt out. Employers should counsel these employees about the change.

The VLDP for Emergency Dispatchers webpage includes legislation details, a side-by-side comparison of disability retirement and VLDP, and employer guidance. Dispatchers who retire on disability before July 1, 2026, will remain in VRS disability retirement.

Action Steps for Employers

• Prepare to administer the opt-out process and certify forms. (VRS will make opt-out forms available to employers later this month.)
• Point dispatchers who are eligible to online resources that answer key questions about their coverage.
• Encourage employees to update contact information in myVRS.
• Sign up for our webinar on January 21 at 2 p.m. for guidance on administering the opt-out period.
• Questions? Email dispatchervldp@varetire.org.