Texas House Bill HB4141

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/8/23
• Out of House Committee: 4/24/23
• Voted on by House: 5/2/23
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/15/23
• Voted on by Senate: 5/17/23
• Governor Action: 6/10/23

Caption

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.

Impact

If implemented, HB 4141 would amend state regulations by directing the TRS to conduct a detailed study on the impact and costs associated with providing alternative retirement benefits for peace officers. These benefits could possibly include options that allow for earlier retirement eligibility or additional supplemental benefits akin to those provided under existing law enforcement pensions. This reformation is intended to promote retention and attraction of qualified peace officers in schools, thereby enhancing not only their job satisfaction but also the safety of students and staff alike.

Summary

House Bill 4141 focuses on the provision of retirement benefits for peace officers who are members of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS). The bill proposes a study to assess the feasibility of offering alternative service retirement benefits specifically designed for campus peace officers. This legislative move aims to ensure that these officers, who play a vital role in maintaining safety within educational institutions, receive retirement benefits that are comparable to those available to other state officers. Currently, these officers encounter more restrictions in terms of pension benefits compared to their counterparts in law enforcement, necessitating a review for potential improvements.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 4141 appears generally supportive, especially among law enforcement organizations and representatives advocating for improved conditions for peace officers in schools. Testimonies during committee hearings emphasized this bill as a critical step toward achieving parity in benefits and enhancing the quality of safety personnel in educational settings. Opponents, however, might raise concerns over the fiscal implications of modifying retirement benefits, seeking further details on how these changes could affect overall state finances long-term.

Contention

Some notable points of contention include the timeline and scope of the study mandated by the bill. Critics may question whether the proposed approach adequately addresses the immediate needs of peace officers working in schools or whether it is just a preliminary evaluation without guaranteed enhancements. Additionally, concerns might arise regarding how the findings of the study will influence legislative action thereafter, particularly if the recommendations entail significant financial investments. Ultimately, the debate around HB 4141 will likely touch upon balancing the goal of improved safety in schools with fiscal responsibility.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 825. Administration
  • Section: 1085
  • Section: 1085
  • Section: 1085
  • Section: 1085

• Chapter 815. Administration
  • Section: 317

• Chapter 820. Cash Balance Benefit
  • Section: New Section