Texas House Bill HB210

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the service retirement annuity for certain members of the Judicial Retirement System of Texas Plan Two.

Impact

The implementation of HB210 is expected to have a significant impact on judicial retirement benefits. Specifically, it seeks to ensure that eligible judges who retire involuntarily will not miss out on any salary increases that could enhance their annuity calculations. This change is crucial in maintaining equity and fairness for those judges who are forced to leave their positions due to constitutional mandates, ensuring that they receive a retirement package that mirrors their service and contributions to the state.

Summary

House Bill 210 aims to amend the Government Code pertaining to service retirement annuities for certain members of the Judicial Retirement System of Texas Plan Two. This bill is particularly relevant for members who are compelled to retire due to vacancy requirements under the Texas Constitution. By modifying Section 839.102, it stipulates that any increases in state salary occurring within a year before the member's retirement will be factored into the computation of their retirement annuity. This aims to enhance the financial security of retiring judges by ensuring that their benefits reflect recent salary adjustments.

Contention

While the bill has been introduced as a measure benefiting retiring judges, some may argue about its long-term fiscal implications on the state's retirement system. Concerns may arise regarding how these adjustments will affect the sustainability of the state's pension obligations. Furthermore, discussions around whether such benefits should be extended to all judicial members or limited to specific situations could also feature in legislative forums as the bill progresses.