Bill would let Philly city workers out of DROP

A Philadelphia City Councilman who is in the DROP early retirement program wants to drop out.  Frank DiCicco is introducing a bill that would allow any city employee to exit the program. 

Through the DROP program, Councilman Frank DiCicco stands to collect over $400,000 in a lump sum for what could be a one-day long retirement.  DiCicco says his decision to enter DROP was a mistake, and he wants to offer a chance for all city employees to exit the program if they wish.

“There are a number of police and fire personnel who have contacted my office as of yesterday who are in the DROP program but would like to continue their careers in public safety they welcome the opportunity to be able to opt out to further their careers,” said DiCicco.

Once enrolled, DROP participants are required to retire within four years.  Elected officials can technically retire for a day and un-retire once re-elected.  DiCicco’s bill is expected to be considered at council hearings into whether DROP should be eliminated entirely.