Mississippi House Bill HB1267

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

PERS; allow retirees to work as law enforcement officer for another employer and draw retirement allowance and work full-time.

Impact

The bill has significant implications for state laws regarding public employee retirement and re-employment. Previously, retirees were restricted from being re-employed until at least ninety days after their retirement and could not receive their retirement benefits while employed again. This amendment seeks to alleviate those restrictions, allowing for a smoother transition for retirees into law enforcement roles, which could enhance the availability of experienced personnel in these positions.

Summary

House Bill 1267 is an amendment to Section 25-11-127 of the Mississippi Code, which allows retired members of the Public Employees' Retirement System to be employed as law enforcement officers by other employers without losing their retirement allowances. This historic change permits retirees to work full-time while drawing their complete retirement benefits, an adjustment aimed at addressing workforce shortages in law enforcement agencies across the state. This bill implies that retirees can provide valuable service to the community without sacrificing financial security.

Contention

Despite the bill's objectives, there are concerns regarding its potential impact on the Public Employees' Retirement System's financial integrity and the message it sends regarding the necessity of a sustainable workforce. Critics argue that it could encourage premature retirements and impact younger workers' opportunities, as retirees may occupy full-time positions they are equipped to handle, all while receiving retirement compensation. The balance between retaining seasoned professionals and providing opportunities for new entrants into law enforcement is a notable point of contention within discussions surrounding the bill.