Provides that vacancies in excess of 3% for full time equivalent state employees which are substituted with contract employees shall require an appropriation to the pension fund equal to the average annual employer contribution for each vacant position.
Impact
The bill aims to ensure that the pension system is sufficiently funded even when state positions remain unfilled. By requiring funds to be allocated for contract positions that replace full-time roles, S2312 emphasizes the state's commitment to sustaining the financial health of the retirement system. This requirement may lead to a more stable pension structure, deterring excessive use of contractors as a substitute for permanent staffing solutions, ultimately securing better long-term outcomes for state employees' retirements.
Summary
Bill S2312 introduces amendments to the Rhode Island retirement system's regulations concerning contributions and benefits for state employees. The foundational change proposed by this bill seeks to address the implications of employment vacancies within state positions. Specifically, it stipulates that if the number of vacancies exceeds three percent for full-time equivalent state employees and these vacancies are filled by contract workers, the state must make an additional appropriation to the pension fund equivalent to the average annual employer contribution for each vacant position.
Contention
Opposition might arise concerning the financial implications of this bill. Critics could argue that mandating appropriations for vacant positions could strain the state budget further, especially if staffing shortages are prolonged. Additionally, the bill could encounter resistance from those advocating for flexible hiring practices or cost-effective measures in state governance. They may contend that the stipulations impose an unnecessary burden on the state’s fiscal resources and could complicate the process of filling vacancies in governmental roles.
Personal income tax: voluntary contributions: California Breast Cancer Research Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund and California Cancer Research Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund.
Personal income taxes: voluntary contributions: California Breast Cancer Research Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund and California Cancer Research Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund.