Michigan Senate Bill SB0165

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/9/23
• Refer: 3/9/23
• Report Pass: 9/19/23
• Refer: 9/19/23
• Report Pass: 10/30/24
• Engrossed: 11/7/24
• Refer: 11/7/24
• Report Pass: 12/12/24

Caption

Retirement: state police; membership in the retirement system of certain law enforcement officers first hired after certain date; provide for, and allow for purchasing service credit for certain law enforcement officers' service under the state employees' retirement system. Amends secs. 3 & 4 of 1986 PA 182 (MCL 38.1603 & 38.1604). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0166'23, SB 0167'23

Impact

If enacted, SB0165 would have significant implications for law enforcement personnel across Michigan. It would enable newly hired officers to attain benefits that were once exclusive to longer-serving members, thereby aligning the retirement options available to them with those already existing for earlier recruits. This adjustment adds flexibility to the retirement system, potentially making a career in law enforcement more attractive to new recruits, while also acknowledging the prior service of those who transition into state police roles from other areas of public service.

Summary

Senate Bill 165 (SB0165) aims to amend the State Police Retirement Act of 1986, primarily focusing on the retirement benefits for certain law enforcement officers who were first hired after specific dates. The bill allows these officers to join the state retirement system and purchase service credit for their previous service under the state employees' retirement system. The amendment modifies sections 3 and 4 of 1986 PA 182, reflecting the changes necessary to include these provisions in the existing framework for law enforcement retirement benefits.

Sentiment

The general sentiment regarding SB0165 appears to be positive, particularly among law enforcement advocates and unions who see it as a step towards enhancing the retirement benefits of officers. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for attracting and retaining skilled individuals in law enforcement positions. However, there may also be some concerns concerning the financial implications of expanding benefits under the state system, which could lead to opposing views among fiscal conservatives or those worried about the pension system's sustainability.

Contention

While the bill's primary purpose aligns with supporting law enforcement, discussions may arise concerning its costs and any potential strains on the state pension fund. Critics may argue that expanding service credit options could create disparities between newly hired officers and those who have served long enough to have built up more substantial retirement benefits. Nevertheless, the bill's proponents likely emphasize the importance of modernizing the retirement system to better reflect the changing landscape of law enforcement and state employment.