Connecticut Senate Bill SB00352

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/20
• Refer: 2/27/20
• Report Pass: 3/10/20

Caption

An Act Concerning Permanent Partial Disability And Pension Offsets.

Impact

The enactment of SB00352 would ensure that any retiree receiving benefits under a municipality’s or special taxing district's retirement system retains their rights and benefits, even if those retirees also receive permanent partial disability benefits. This legislation would thus reinforce the protections afforded to retirees and clarify that municipalities cannot adjust pension benefits to counterbalance disability payments received by the retirees. This change is seen as a vital step towards protecting vulnerable employees who rely on their pensions for financial security in their retirement years.

Summary

SB00352, also known as 'An Act Concerning Permanent Partial Disability and Pension Offsets', seeks to safeguard the pension and retirement benefits of municipal employees who suffer from permanent partial disabilities. The bill explicitly prohibits municipalities and special taxing districts from diminishing or eliminating benefits that have been granted to retirees as of their retirement date. The intention is to provide financial stability and security for retirees against modifications in pension plans that could negatively affect their earned benefits.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for upholding the rights of retirees, there could be concerns regarding the financial implications for municipalities that may have to manage tighter budgets. Critics might argue that this imposed protection could hinder the flexibility of local governments to adjust pension plans in response to changing economic conditions or budgetary constraints. However, supporters contend that such provisions are essential to prevent unjust reductions in benefits that retirees have rightfully earned.