Washington Senate Bill SB5114

Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/25
• Refer: 1/13/25

Caption

Paying state retirement benefits until the end of the month in which the retiree or beneficiary dies.

Impact

If enacted, SB5114 would directly influence the statutes that govern retirement benefits for state employees. Currently, there might be uncertainties regarding the end date for benefit payments upon the retiree's death, leading to potential hardships for beneficiaries who may depend on these funds. The bill's passage would mean more consistent and predictable financial support for retirees and their families, aligning with the state's commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its retired population.

Summary

SB5114 is a legislative proposal that addresses the disbursement of state retirement benefits. Specifically, the bill aims to ensure that retirement benefits are paid until the end of the month in which a retiree or beneficiary dies. This provision seeks to provide clarity and assurance regarding the duration of benefit payments, which can be a significant concern for beneficiaries and their families during times of loss. The bill reflects an intention to improve the welfare of retirees and ensure that their financial arrangements remain stable until the very end of the benefit period.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB5114 could bring up several points of contention, particularly in how the bill interfaces with existing policies on retirement benefits. Stakeholders may debate the implications of guaranteed payments until the end of the month of death, particularly regarding financial liabilities for the state. Critics might argue that this provision could place an undue burden on the state's budget or incentivize certain behaviors around reporting deaths. Similarly, there might be concerns regarding the administrative aspects of implementing this change and how it may affect current beneficiaries.