An Act Excluding Mileage Reimbursements From The Calculation Of Legislators' Retirement Income.
If enacted, SB 270 would have significant implications for how retirement income for state legislators is calculated. By excluding mileage reimbursements from the base salary, the bill could lead to lower pension payouts for some legislators, particularly those who frequently travel for their duties. This change could potentially save state funds, as it reduces the amount paid out in pensions, which generally is a significant expense for government budgets.
Senate Bill 270 seeks to amend chapter 66 of the general statutes to exclude mileage reimbursements from the calculations of base salary for the purpose of determining state legislators' retirement income. This proposed change addresses concerns about the financial implications of including such reimbursements in the pension calculations for legislators. The bill aims to ensure that only the base salary is considered, thus potentially reducing the overall pension amounts for retiring legislators who receive substantial mileage reimbursements.
Notably, the bill may face contention from lawmakers who rely heavily on mileage reimbursements due to their districts' geographical size, as this could significantly affect their overall retirement income. Proponents of the bill argue that excluding reimbursements makes for a more equitable and cost-effective pension system, while opponents may view it as a reduction in compensation for the costs incurred during legislative duties. The debate around this bill reflects broader discussions about fiscal responsibility and the management of public funds.
As of the latest voting record on February 15, 2017, there were no recorded votes for or against SB 270, indicating that discussions may still be ongoing or that it has not yet been prioritized for a vote.