Louisiana House Bill HB17

Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/20
• Refer: 1/24/20
• Refer: 3/9/20
• Report Pass: 5/7/20
• Engrossed: 5/18/20
• Report Pass: 5/25/20
• Enrolled: 5/28/20
• Chaptered: 6/4/20
• Passed: 6/4/20

Caption

Provides relative to entities that are employers covered by the Parochial Employees' Retirement System of Louisiana (EN NO IMPACT APV)

Impact

The introduction of HB 17 is likely to have significant implications for state laws governing public employee retirement systems. By broadening the eligibility criteria for which employees can access retirement benefits, it ensures that more government workers, especially those in local taxing districts, receive necessary retirement coverage. This could lead to greater financial security for employees who may have previously been excluded from such benefits typically offered through larger government employers.

Summary

House Bill 17 aims to amend and clarify the definitions and provisions related to the Parochial Employees' Retirement System in Louisiana. This bill specifically expands the definition of 'employee' to include workers employed by various districts and branches including soil and water conservation districts and taxing districts, thereby extending retirement benefits to a wider range of public workers. The amendments also set specific stipulations regarding employer participation and the requirements for retirement plans submitted by these entities to the system's board of trustees.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 17 appears to be largely supportive among legislators who view it as a necessary step to ensure fair treatment of all public employees within Louisiana, regardless of the specific government entity they work for. There is recognition of the need to modernize and adapt the retirement system to better reflect the realities of public employment today. However, discussions may arise regarding the financial implications for local districts and the ability to meet additional pension obligations imposed by the expanded coverage.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill could include potential pushback from local governments regarding their ability to fund the increased retirement benefits and contributions required under these new provisions. Concerns may be raised about the sustainability of the retirement system overall, especially if a substantial number of entities seek to establish participation under the newly defined parameters. There may also be discussions around the administrative feasibility of managing an increased number of entities participating in the retirement system, which could add complexity to the oversight process.