Missouri House Bill HB404

Missouri 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 3/26/25
• Report Pass: 4/10/25

Caption

Modifies the employer contribution rate for the Public School Retirement System of the City of St. Louis

Impact

The enactment of HB404 aims to create a more sustainable financial environment for the Public School Retirement System by establishing clearer, increased contribution rates. This will not only help in meeting the liabilities associated with retirement benefits but also ensures that the system can provide for its members effectively. The bill underscores the necessity for consistent and reliable funding for the retirement system, which is critical to maintaining the long-term viability of pension benefits for school employees in St. Louis.

Summary

House Bill 404 is designed to modify the employer contribution rates for the Public School Retirement System of the City of St. Louis. This bill is aimed at implementing an emergency clause that addresses the financial stability of the retirement system while ensuring appropriate funding levels. The modifications proposed in the bill entail a flat contribution rate increase for members hired before January 1, 2018, and a set contribution rate for new members hired after that date. Specifically, members from previous years will see their deduction rates gradually increase until they reach nine percent, while newer members will directly contribute nine percent of their compensation.

Contention

While HB404 seeks to provide financial security, it could spark debate around the shift in contribution responsibilities, particularly how it impacts the employees who will have their salaries adjusted due to these deductions. Concerns may arise regarding the adequacy of the retirement benefits, the ability of current and future employees to contribute at the proposed rates, and whether those rates are sufficient to ensure the system’s health moving forward. Stakeholders may discuss balancing fiscal sustainability with fair treatment of employees' compensation and retirement expectations.