Mississippi Senate Bill SB2592

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Retired teachers; allow to draw retirement benefits and be reemployed as teachers subject to certain conditions.

Impact

The legislation is positioned to address teacher shortages by facilitating the return of experienced educators back into the classroom without losing their retirement benefits. This could be particularly pivotal for districts facing difficulties recruiting and retaining teachers. The financial responsibilities of employers in this arrangement include paying an amount equivalent to both the employer's and employee's contributions to the retirement system, thereby preserving the integrity of the retirement fund while offering a pathway for retirees to contribute their expertise once again.

Summary

Senate Bill 2592 aims to amend the Mississippi Code to allow certain retired public school teachers who have completed at least thirty years of creditable service to return to teaching while simultaneously receiving their retirement benefits. This change is contingent upon the retired teacher being away from the classroom for at least twelve consecutive months before reemployment. Further stipulations state that no individual can be reemployed as a teacher for more than five years under this bill. Should they choose to resume their retirement allowance, they must notify the executive director of the retirement system prior to their return to work.

Contention

Despite its potential advantages, SB 2592 is not without controversy. Opponents argue that allowing retirees to return to teaching while receiving full retirement benefits could disincentivize younger teachers from pursuing careers within the public school system. Concerns have also been raised regarding the sustainability of the retirement fund and whether such measures could lead to financial strain. Furthermore, questions of equity arise when considering how these provisions affect other retired public employees who may not have the same opportunities to return to work under similar terms.