Louisiana House Bill HB35

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/8/13
• Refer: 4/8/13

Caption

Provides for retirement eligibility of employees of state hospitals under certain conditions (OR +$13,851,000 APV)

Impact

The passage of HB 35 is expected to significantly impact state laws governing employee retirement, specifically for health care staff employed by state hospitals. It allows specific workers to retire earlier under favorable terms, which means that many would transition into retirement without penalty despite not being directly laid off. This addresses an urgent need for these employees to secure their retirement benefits during times of institutional uncertainty while mitigating potential workforce stresses caused by layoffs.

Summary

House Bill 35 aims to provide retirement flexibility for employees of state hospitals who are members of the Louisiana State Employees’ Retirement System (LASERS) and the Teachers’ Retirement System of Louisiana (TRSL). Should a layoff or layoff avoidance plan approved by the State Civil Service Commission affect their employer, eligible employees may retire without actuarial reduction if they have 25 or more years of service. This bill is intended to help employees facing potential job insecurity due to institutional restructuring.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 35 appears to be supportive, especially among employees in the sectors affected and their advocates. However, there remains a level of concern regarding the long-term financial implications of allowing additional retirement flexibility, given the associated costs projected for the retirement systems, which is estimated to increase liabilities by over $13 million. Opponents may express skepticism regarding potential costs to the state budget and the sustainability of retirement benefits.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding HB 35 revolves around the financial consequences of enabling a new class of retirement eligibility. The actuarial analysis indicated that the bill could lead to increased liabilities, with a projected total cost of $13.5 million affecting LASERS and TRSL. Legislators are challenged to weigh the potential benefits for affected state employees against the strain placed on the retirement system and the state’s financial resources.