District Attorney Michael McMahon and State Supreme Court Judge Judith McMahon from Staten Island are under scrutiny for “double dipping” by collecting six-figure taxpayer-funded salaries while also receiving government pensions likely exceeding $100,000. Michael McMahon retired from government service in December while continuing his role as district attorney, which has allowed him to collect a pension of over $130,000. Despite the legality of this practice, some political insiders have expressed concerns about the optics of the situation.
Having spent over 30 years in various government positions, including as a legislative staffer, councilman, congressman, and finally district attorney in 2016, Michael McMahon is entitled to retire and collect a pension while still working in his current role. Judge Judith McMahon, who serves as a state Supreme Court judge, is paid $210,900 annually while also collecting a $122,916 pension, resulting in combined gross compensation of more than $600,000 for the power couple. Their retirement dates were effective in December, according to various data sources.
Despite accusations of impropriety, the McMahons’ actions fall within the boundaries of the law. Elected officials have the unique ability to retire and continue working while collecting a pension, a loophole that is utilized by many, particularly in the case of state lawmakers. This practice, known as double dipping, has raised eyebrows among some political insiders, but it is not uncommon in government circles. While the pension system was not originally designed for this purpose, it remains a legal practice for eligible individuals.
DA McMahon’s office defended his decision to retire and collect a government pension while still serving as the district attorney, citing the importance of securing financial protection for his family. While the exact amount of McMahon’s pension remains undisclosed, experts estimate that he is eligible to receive around 60% of his final three years’ salary. Despite potential public backlash, McMahon, who was re-elected to a third term unopposed last year, is within his rights to collect his pension and continue working in his current role.
The practice of retiring to collect a pension while continuing to work is not limited to the McMahons, as it is prevalent among many judges and state lawmakers. By retiring and collecting a pension while still in office, individuals forfeit the ability to apply for a waiver to serve past the mandatory retirement age. Although this practice may seem unseemly to some, particularly in the eyes of the public, it is a legal loophole that has been utilized by many in government positions. The McMahons’ double dipping has sparked controversy and scrutiny, highlighting the complexities of retirement and pension policies in the public sector.
