Alabama Senate Bill SB69

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/21/23
• Refer: 3/21/23
• Report Pass: 4/5/23
• Engrossed: 4/6/23
• Refer: 4/6/23

Caption

Relating to the Retirement Systems of Alabama; to amend Section 36-27-59, Code of Alabama 1975, to remove the time limit for purchasing hazardous duty time for prior eligible service for certain firefighters, law enforcement officers, and correctional officers covered under the Employees' Retirement System or the Teachers' Retirement System as Tier I plan members.

Impact

The impact of SB69 is significant for public safety personnel as it allows them to accumulate more retirement credits without the constraints of a fixed time limit. This could lead to improved financial security for retirees who are often faced with reduced lifespans due to the hazardous nature of their occupations. By facilitating easier access to additional service credits, the bill may help to retain experienced professionals in the workforce longer while also incentivizing new recruits to join the ranks of public safety due to more appealing retirement benefits.

Summary

SB69 is a legislative act that amends Section 36-27-59 of the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically targeting the retirement benefits of certain public safety personnel. The bill aims to remove the previously established time limit for purchasing hazardous duty time related to prior eligible service for firefighters, law enforcement officers, and correctional officers who are covered under the Employees' Retirement System or the Teachers' Retirement System as Tier I members. This change is intended to enhance retirement benefits for these public safety workers, recognizing the demanding nature of their jobs and the risks they face.

Contention

While there are many supporters of SB69 who advocate for improved retirement benefits for those in public safety careers, there are concerns regarding the potential financial implications of such changes on the state’s retirement systems. Critics argue that lifting the time limits for purchasing hazardous duty time can lead to increased liabilities for the retirement systems, which may ultimately require funding adjustments or reforms to ensure sustainability. Balancing the needs of public safety workers with the fiscal health of state retirement systems is expected to be a topic of debate as the bill progresses through the legislative process.