Texas Senate Bill SB1667

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/26/11
• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Voted on by Senate: 4/29/11
• Refer: 3/23/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/12/11
• Report Pass: 4/26/11
• Voted on by House: 5/20/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/2/11
• Enrolled: 5/21/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the administration of and benefits payable by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas and to certain domestic relations orders.

Impact

The legislation will alter the existing landscape of benefit administration under TRS by explicitly defining how benefits are handled in the context of domestic relations orders and criminal history evaluations. It aims to create a clearer framework for addressing situations involving beneficiaries and alternate payees in legal disputes related to retirement benefits, thus reinforcing the system's operational integrity and efficiency. It also amends various provisions to ensure that the retirement funds are securely managed and that their distribution adheres to statutory guidelines.

Summary

SB1667 focuses on amendments to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) with a primary goal of clarifying the administration of benefits and the treatment of domestic relations orders within the retirement system. The bill introduces provisions allowing TRS to obtain criminal history record information relevant to employees and applicants, thereby enhancing the vetting process for personnel involved with the retirement system. It also establishes guidelines for managing requests for background checks to ensure compliance with privacy laws while safeguarding the integrity of the system.

Contention

While proponents argue that SB1667 strengthens the TRS by establishing more rigorous checks and balances regarding personnel and beneficiaries, there may be concerns about privacy implications regarding the acquisition and use of criminal history information. Additionally, the bill's stipulations concerning domestic relations orders could lead to challenges in enforcement and compliance among divorce settlements, potentially creating legal disputes about benefit entitlements that could require further clarification.