Relating to the eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas of juvenile justice officers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Impact
If enacted, this bill is expected to positively affect juvenile justice officers by allowing them access to the law enforcement and custodial officer supplemental retirement fund, contingent upon actuarial assessments ensuring the fund's viability. The amendment aims to address equity in retirement benefits for juvenile justice officers, acknowledging the risks associated with their roles which often involve close contact with youth in secure facilities.
Summary
House Bill 2218 proposes amendments to the eligibility criteria for juvenile justice officers to qualify as custodial officers within the Employees Retirement System of Texas. The bill seeks to expand the definition of custodial officers to include individuals employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. This change is intended to extend retirement benefits typically available to law enforcement officers to juvenile justice professionals who perform similar duties related to the supervision of youth in custody.
Contention
Notably, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications of integrating juvenile justice officers into the existing retirement framework. Critics might argue that the expansion of eligibility could potentially raise costs for the retirement system, thus impacting benefits for current members. Stakeholder discussions will likely center on how to balance the needs of juvenile justice officers with the sustainability of the retirement fund, and whether these changes could affect the retirement benefits of other law enforcement personnel.
Relating to the eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas of juvenile justice officers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas by certain juvenile correctional officers and caseworkers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to service retirement benefits payable by the Employees Retirement System of Texas to commissioned peace officers employed by the attorney general.
Relating to service retirement benefits payable by the Employees Retirement System of Texas to commissioned peace officers employed by the attorney general.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to eligibility for law enforcement officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas by certain peace officers commissioned by the comptroller.