New York Assembly Bill A08003

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/17/25
• Refer: 4/17/25

Caption

Allows members of a public retirement system who retired prior to applying for credit for military service because such credit was not available at the time of their retirement to receive such credit if they apply prior to December 31, 2026.

Impact

The enactment of A08003 is projected to lead to fiscal implications for the New York State and Local Employees' Retirement System (NYSLERS) and the New York State and Local Police and Fire Retirement System (NYSLPFRS). For NYSLERS alone, the current estimate of increased benefits, if the bill is approved, is approximately $72.2 million, troubling the state's budget allocations for retirement systems. The financial responsibility for these expected costs will be borne by the state and local employers involved, redistributing how retirement funds are accrued and managed.

Summary

Bill A08003 seeks to amend the retirement and social security law in New York, allowing certain members of a public retirement system who retired prior to the introduction of military service credit to apply for this credit by December 31, 2026. Under this provision, retirees who left the workforce before May 31, 2016, will have the opportunity to receive benefits for their military service if they apply within the specified timeline. This amendment is aimed at recognizing and compensating those who served in the military but were not given the opportunity to apply for such credits at the time of their retirement.

Contention

Discussion around A08003 highlights varying opinions on its ramifications. Proponents argue it corrects an injustice for military veterans who previously could not receive due credit, therefore supporting the moral obligation towards those who served. However, opponents raise concerns regarding the financial strain it may place on the state budget and local retirement systems, arguing this could lead to increased retirement costs that may not be sustainable long-term. Such economic implications evoke a broader debate over the extent and method of how states compensate for military service.