Texas Senate Bill SB1466

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the state salary for retired judges.

Impact

The bill's passage would have significant implications for retired judges, effectively increasing their retirement benefits in tandem with salary increases granted to sitting judges. By recalculating pensions to reflect the salary of judges with at least eight years of service, the bill aims to provide equitable financial support to retired judges, aligning their benefits with contemporary compensation standards.

Summary

Senate Bill 1466 addresses the retirement benefits of judges who served in district or appellate courts in Texas. The bill mandates that if there is an enacted increase in the state salary for these judges during the 86th Legislature, the Employees Retirement System of Texas must recalculate the annuities of judges who retired prior to this increase. This restriction applies to judges who retired under specific sections of the Government Code, ensuring that their pensions reflect the updated salary structure post-increase.

Contention

While the bill primarily appears to be a benefit extension, there could be contention regarding the financial implications on the state budget. Opponents may argue that the recalculation of annuities could place an additional burden on the Employees Retirement System and, by extension, on taxpayers. Proponents will likely emphasize the importance of providing sufficient retirement support for judges who have dedicated years of service to the state, thereby underlining the bill's intent to honor and financially support the judiciary's retired members.