Iowa House Bill HF2123

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/24/24

Caption

A bill for an act concerning special service members of the Iowa public employees' retirement system by establishing a deferred retirement option plan.

Impact

The introduction of this bill could have significant implications for the retirement strategies of special service employees in Iowa. By allowing members to accumulate benefits without retiring, the DROP plan offers an attractive financial incentive for older employees to remain in the workforce. However, officials from IPERS will monitor potential increases in actuarial costs due to the establishment of this plan. If it's determined that the plan imposes additional financial burdens on the system, contribution rates for members may increase accordingly.

Summary

House File 2123 establishes a Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP) specifically for special service members of the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). This plan enables eligible members, at least 55 years of age with a minimum of 22 years of service, to delay retirement while continuing to work. Instead of receiving their retirement benefits immediately, these members can have a portion of their retirement allowance deposited into an account which will be accessible upon their eventual retirement. This allows participants to build up a benefit that reflects their work while deferring retirement income.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HF2123 could arise from concerns about financial sustainability and fairness within the retirement system. Opponents may argue that the DROP plan could disproportionately benefit long-serving employees, potentially hindering younger employees' opportunities for advancement. Additionally, the irrevocability of participation in the plan means that members must commit without the flexibility to change their minds, which could be contentious among workers who prefer more adaptable retirement options. Overall, how this new plan interacts with existing policies could be a source of debate among legislators and public service advocates.