Bill advances on

pension forfeitures

The Associated press

MONTPELIER — A plan to bar Vermont public employees convicted of certain crimes from collecting their retirement pensions appears to be gaining support.

The Vermont House passed the measure on Friday and sent it on to the Senate. The boards that govern state employee, teacher and municipal employee retirement funds all endorsed it.

The bill would allow a court to block a public employee from receiving some or all of their retirement benefits if that person is convicted of fraud or embezzlement.

The legislation follows an investigation last year that found former Sgt. James Deeghan of the Vermont State Police had padded his paychecks and prospective pension by falsely reporting overtime. Deeghan pleaded guilty last month and will make restitution.