Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5296

Introduced
1/11/23  
Refer
1/11/23  
Report Pass
2/7/23  
Engrossed
2/22/23  

Caption

Concerning interruptive military service credit for members of the state retirement systems.

Impact

If enacted, SB5296 would amend the current regulations governing state retirement systems, potentially impacting statutes related to retirement benefits and military service. This bill would benefit individuals who have served in the military by ensuring that their time away from their civilian job for service is not detrimental to their retirement savings. This could encourage public service members to utilize their rights to serve without fear of losing retirement benefits.

Summary

SB5296 is a legislative bill concerning interruptive military service credit for members of the state retirement systems. The purpose of this bill is to allow members who have taken a leave of absence due to military service to receive credit towards their retirement benefits. This is significant for state employees who serve in the military, ensuring that their service time is recognized and accounted for when calculating their retirement benefits.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB5296 appears to be supportive, with lawmakers recognizing the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices made by military members. The bill passed unanimously in its last voting session, reflecting a broad consensus regarding the necessity of military service recognition in state retirement systems. The discussions indicate that lawmakers are committed to ensuring equitable treatment for servicemembers.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support, there may be underlying concerns regarding the implications for the funding and solvency of state retirement systems. Some critics might argue that extending additional benefits could place further financial burdens on the existing retirement systems. However, the general tone of the discussions around SB5296 suggests that it is seen as a vital step toward honoring military service and enhancing the benefits available to those who serve.

Companion Bills

WA HB1007

Crossfiled Concerning interruptive military service credit for members of the state retirement systems.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1007

Concerning interruptive military service credit for members of the state retirement systems.

WA SB6000

Concerning interruptive military service credit for members of the state retirement systems.

WA SB5294

Concerning actuarial funding of state retirement systems.

WA SB5881

Concerning membership in the public employees' retirement system for certain part-time bus drivers employed full-time by the federal government.

WA SB6247

Concerning public employees' retirement system plan 2 service credit for officers of labor organizations.

WA HB1055

Concerning public safety employees' retirement plan membership for public safety telecommunicators.

WA HB1008

Concerning participating in insurance plans and contracts by separated plan 2 members of certain retirement systems.

WA HB2316

Concerning membership in the public employees' retirement system for certain part-time bus drivers employed full-time by the federal government.

WA HB1201

Concerning actuarial funding of state retirement systems.

WA SB5328

Concerning public safety employees' retirement plan membership for public safety telecommunicators.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.