Louisiana Senate Bill SB85

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 4/20/10
• Refer: 4/21/10
• Report Pass: 5/17/10
• Engrossed: 6/9/10
• Refer: 6/9/10
• Report Pass: 6/10/10
• Enrolled: 6/18/10
• Chaptered: 7/8/10
• Passed: 7/8/10

Caption

Establishes a range for employee contributions to be set by the board of trustees for Plans A and B. (1/1/11) (EN SEE ACTUARIAL NOTE APV)

Impact

The implementation of SB85 is expected to have significant implications for state laws governing retirement contributions. By delegating the authority to set contribution rates to the board of trustees, the bill potentially enhances the retirement system's responsiveness to market conditions and demographic changes. This could lead to more stable funding levels for the retirement funds, benefiting current and future retirees while addressing the financial responsibilities of the Parochial Employees' Retirement System.

Summary

Senate Bill 85 aims to amend the provisions concerning employee contributions within the Parochial Employees' Retirement System in Louisiana. The bill seeks to establish specified ranges for contributions to be set annually by the board of trustees for Plan A and Plan B members. This legislative change is intended to provide more flexibility and adaptability within the retirement system by allowing the trustees to adjust employee contribution rates based on actuarial consultations, ensuring the financial sustainability of the retirement funds for local public employees.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB85 appears to be generally positive among proponents who view the bill as a necessary modernization of the state’s retirement system. Advocates assert that empowering the board of trustees to determine contributions fosters a proactive approach to managing retirement benefits, aligning with best practices in public retirement system management. However, there remains a cautious perspective regarding the potential for increased contribution rates, which could impose a greater financial burden on employees if not carefully managed.

Contention

Despite the overall support for SB85, some stakeholders have raised concerns about the transparency and accountability of the trustees in setting contribution rates. There are apprehensions regarding the balance between adequate funding of retirement funds and the financial impact on employees, particularly if the rates are raised significantly. This highlights a fundamental tension between ensuring robust retirement benefits while maintaining equitable cost-sharing between the state and public employees.