Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8243

Introduced
5/3/24  

Caption

Provides an option for members to receive retirement allowances, without reduction, upon reaching twenty-five (25) years of total service or after twenty (20) years of service upon reaching age fifty-seven (57).

Impact

The bill could significantly influence state regulations concerning retirement benefits for public safety personnel. By permitting members to retire early while ensuring stable financial planning for their retirement allowances, it aims to attract and retain qualified individuals in these demanding roles. This could lead to changes in how municipalities manage their personnel costs and retirement funding, especially in times of budget constraints.

Summary

House Bill 8243 proposes amendments to existing laws related to optional retirement for members of police and fire departments in Rhode Island. The bill allows members with 20 years of total service to retire without a benefit reduction upon reaching the age of 57 or by deferring their retirement allowance until they achieve 25 years of service. These adjustments aim to provide greater retirement flexibility and incentives for long-serving public safety employees.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise concerning the financial implications of the bill on the state's retirement system and municipal budgets. Critics may argue that early retirement options could lead to increased costs if not managed properly, potentially creating disparities in staffing levels as experienced officers retire earlier. On the other hand, proponents emphasize the importance of supporting the well-being of first responders and ensuring that retirement options are competitive to retain talent.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6203

Optional Retirement For Members Of Police Force And Firefighters

RI H6289

Relating To Towns And Cities-optional Retirement For Members Of Police Force And Firefighters

RI H6039

House Resolution Honoring Anthony Capezza On His Retirement After Fifty Years Of Distinguished And Honorable Public Service

RI S0521

Retirement System--membership And Service Credits

RI H6017

Retirement System--membership And Service Credits

RI H6413

Teachers' Retirement

RI H6458

House Resolution Congratulating And Honoring Former Superintendent Of Pawtucket Public Schools Dr. Cheryl Mcwilliams On Her Retirement After More Than Twenty-five Years Of Distinguished Service To The Children And The City Of Pawtucket

RI H6520

House Resolution Honoring Armand E. Sabitoni On His Retirement As General Secretary-treasurer After Nearly Twenty-two Years Of Dedicated Service To The Laborers’ International Union Of North America

RI S1095

Senate Resolution Honoring Armand E. Sabitoni On His Retirement As General Secretary-treasurer After Nearly Twenty-two Years Of Dedicated Service To The Laborers’ International Union Of North America

RI S0049

Senate Resolution Honoring And Thanking Elizabeth Burke Bryant For Twenty-eight Years Of Devoted Service As Executive Director Of Rhode Island Kids Count

Similar Bills

RI H5471

Provides an option for members to receive retirement allowances, without reduction, after twenty (20) years of service upon reaching age fifty-seven (57).

RI H7240

Authorizes an annual two and one-half percent (2.5%) escalation for all active and retired police and firefighter's retirement pension allowance, compounded each year on January 1 following the year of retirement and continuing yearly, on that date.

RI S0411

Affords an option for police and firefighters to receive retirement allowances, without reduction, who seek retirement after twenty (20) years of service upon reaching age fifty-seven (57).

RI H5230

Affords an option for police and firefighters to receive retirement allowances, without reduction, who seek retirement after twenty (20) years of service upon reaching age fifty-seven (57).

RI H6203

Optional Retirement For Members Of Police Force And Firefighters

RI S3079

Allows police and firefighters to retire with 20 years of service and attained 57 years of age based on their highest 3 years consecutive compensation.

RI S3023

Provides an option for members to receive retirement allowances, without reduction, upon reaching twenty-five (25) years of total service or after twenty (20) years of service upon reaching age fifty-seven (57).

RI S0093

Allows police and firefighters to retire with 20 years of service and attained 57 years of age based on their highest 3 years consecutive compensation.