Texas House Bill HB2178

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to terminating participation in the Texas Emergency Services Retirement System.

Impact

This bill, if enacted, would amend existing provisions in the Texas Government Code governing the participation of departments in the TESRS. Ordinarily, once an emergency services department elects to participate in the system, that decision is irrevocable for a number of years. However, HB 2178 attempts to offer a more flexible option by allowing certain departments to exit the system under specified conditions, including providing alternative retirement benefits for volunteer firefighters. By altering the participation framework, the bill aims to accommodate the diverse structures of emergency service organizations across Texas.

Summary

House Bill 2178 relates to the ability of emergency service departments in Texas to terminate their participation in the Texas Emergency Services Retirement System (TESRS). The bill outlines the conditions under which a governing body of an emergency service department may elect to withdraw from the pension system, which is primarily designed to provide retirement benefits for its members. Specifically, it specifies that certain conditions must be met for this termination to occur, effectively providing a legal pathway for emergency services departments that have both volunteer and paid firefighters to opt out of the retirement system under specific circumstances.

Contention

The legislation is likely to stir debate around the funding and benefits available to emergency service personnel. Proponents may argue that the bill allows for greater flexibility and adaptation to the needs of local departments, especially those that may face financial strain under the current retirement system. Conversely, opponents could raise concerns that this bill might diminish the overall benefits available to firefighters and other emergency personnel by inducing a potential reduction in pooled resources of the pension system. Thus, the bill may lead to a significant discussion about balancing local autonomy with the overarching need to ensure adequate retirement benefits for all emergency service workers in Texas.