Texas Senate Bill SB1669

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/21/11
• Voted on by Senate: 4/28/11
• Refer: 3/23/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/12/11
• Report Pass: 4/21/11
• Voted on by House: 5/20/11
• Engrossed: 4/28/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/29/11
• Report Pass: 5/6/11
• Enrolled: 5/21/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the resumption of service by retirees under the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

Impact

By allowing certain retirees to work in education without the forfeiture of their benefits, SB1669 aims to alleviate teacher shortages, especially in critical shortage areas. The legislation seeks to enhance the pool of experienced educators who can contribute to the educational system while still receiving their retirement benefits. This shift might encourage more retirees to return to the classroom, aiding in staffing challenges faced by many Texas school districts, particularly in subject areas with a shortage of qualified teachers.

Summary

SB1669 aims to revise the employment conditions for retirees under the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. This bill is particularly focused on facilitating the resumption of service by retirees, allowing them to reintegrate into the workforce of public educational institutions without losing their retirement benefits. The bill includes provisions permitting these retirees to take up employment under specific conditions, particularly addressing those who had retired before January 1, 2011. This change is intended to provide more flexibility for retirees who wish to return to teaching or other educational roles.

Contention

The modification of terms under which retirees can be employed raises potential contention points as it balances the rights and needs of retirees with the fiscal responsibilities of the state. While proponents of the bill advocate for its positive impact on educational staffing, opponents may be concerned about the sustainability of retirement funds and the implications of extended employment on benefit systems. Furthermore, the bill's specificity regarding employment conditions could spark debates about equity and access within the teaching profession, particularly concerning those who retired after the stipulated date.