Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB159

Introduced
3/2/22  
Introduced
3/2/22  
Refer
3/2/22  
Refer
3/2/22  
Refer
3/14/22  
Report Pass
3/23/22  
Report Pass
3/23/22  
Engrossed
4/4/22  
Engrossed
4/4/22  
Refer
4/5/22  
Refer
4/5/22  
Report Pass
5/12/22  
Report Pass
5/12/22  
Enrolled
6/1/22  
Chaptered
6/10/22  

Caption

Provides relative to insurance benefits for retirees of the Iberville Parish Sheriff's Office. (7/1/22) (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

Impact

The passage of SB159 represents a significant change in the insurance benefit structure for law enforcement retirees in Iberville Parish. As a result, eligible sheriffs and deputy sheriffs will have a greater financial security concerning their healthcare and life insurance costs after retirement. This bill should enhance the attractiveness of careers in law enforcement, possibly impacting recruitment and retention positively. However, the financial implications of covering these costs fully from the sheriff's general fund may require careful consideration in the local budget funding process.

Summary

Senate Bill 159, also known as 'SB159', aims to enact provisions regarding the payment of group insurance premiums for retirees of the Iberville Parish Sheriff's Office. Specifically, the bill mandates that 100% of the premium costs for group hospital, surgical, and medical expense insurance, as well as the first $10,000 in life insurance, be paid from the sheriff's general fund for eligible retirees. To qualify, individuals must have at least 20 years of creditable service with the department, reach the age of 55, and be in good standing at the time of retirement.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB159 appears to be largely positive, as indicated by the unanimous support it received during voting (98 yeas to 0 nays). Legislators likely view this bill as a necessary measure to support law enforcement personnel who dedicate many years to service, recognizing the need to provide adequate retirement benefits, particularly in fields with high service demands such as law enforcement.

Contention

While there are no substantial points of contention directly mentioned in the voting history or bill discussions, underlying issues such as budget constraints and the long-term sustainability of funding these premiums may arise as potential concerns for future discussions. The implementation of this bill could raise debates around the appropriate allocation of funds within the sheriff's office's budget, and how such allocations might affect other areas of law enforcement operations or community services.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SB88

Provides relative to insurance benefits for retirees of the St. Martin Parish Sheriff's Office. (7/1/22) (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA SB140

Provides for insurance benefits for retired sheriffs and deputies of the Acadia Parish Sheriff's Office. (7/1/22) (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA HB62

Provides relative to group insurance premiums for retirees of the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

LA SB33

Provides with respect to the payment of insurance premiums for retired sheriffs and deputy sheriffs of the Acadia Parish Sheriff's Office. (7/1/14) (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

LA HB1263

Provides relative to the payment of group insurance premiums for retired sheriffs and employees of the Bossier Parish Sheriff's Office (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA HB163

Provides for payment of group insurance for retired sheriffs and deputy sheriffs in certain parishes (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

LA SB25

Provides for insurance benefits for retirees of the Pointe Coupee Parish Sheriff's Office. (7/1/19)

LA HB298

Provides relative to payment of insurance premiums for certain sheriffs and deputy sheriffs of the St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

LA HB4

Provides for payment of group insurance for retired sheriffs and deputy sheriffs of the Webster Parish Sheriff's Office (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

LA HB281

Provides relative to the payment of group insurance premiums for retired sheriffs and deputy sheriffs hired on or after July 1, 2015, for Allen Parish (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.