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.
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)
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)
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)
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)