Relating to eligibility for membership and funding of benefits for certain law enforcement, custodial, and other peace officers.
Impact
The amendments proposed in HB 1163 are expected to enhance the retirement benefits for law enforcement and custodial officers by integrating various service credits that were previously accounted for separately. By allowing service credit from the Teacher Retirement System and the Employees Retirement System to be combined, the bill aims to improve the financial security of officers who serve across different roles. Additionally, the changes may lead to a more adaptable retirement system that can accommodate the complexities of modern law enforcement careers.
Summary
House Bill 1163 aims to amend certain sections of the Government Code concerning the eligibility for membership and funding of benefits for law enforcement, custodial, and peace officers. The bill expands the definitions of eligible members and outlines provisions for combined service credit for officers who may belong to multiple retirement systems. This change seeks to streamline the retirement process for those transitioning between different roles within law enforcement and related fields.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding this bill may include debates on the adequacy of the proposed funding mechanisms for the enhanced benefits and whether the legislation will effectively address the needs of all categories of peace officers. Concerns may also arise regarding the fiscal implications for the state’s retirement systems and how these changes would affect existing members versus new recruits. Some legislators might argue that these changes could set a precedent for future adjustments in retirement policies, potentially leading to increased financial burdens on the state.
Relating to eligibility for law enforcement officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas by certain peace officers commissioned by the comptroller.
Relating to a study conducted by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas on the feasibility of offering alternative service retirement benefits to peace officers who are members of the retirement system.
Relating to eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas by certain juvenile correctional officers and caseworkers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to the eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas of juvenile justice officers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to service retirement benefits payable by the Employees Retirement System of Texas to commissioned peace officers employed by the attorney general.
Relating to service retirement benefits payable by the Employees Retirement System of Texas to commissioned peace officers employed by the attorney general.
Relating to the carrying of weapons by community supervision and corrections department officers, juvenile probation officers, and certain retired law enforcement officers and to criminal liability for taking a weapon from certain of those officers.
Relating to the carrying of weapons by community supervision and corrections department officers, juvenile probation officers, and certain retired law enforcement officers and to criminal liability for taking a weapon from certain of those officers.