Law enforcement and firefighter annuitants in the Wisconsin Retirement System who are rehired by a participating employer. (FE)
Impact
The legislation aims to address workforce shortages in public safety by facilitating the rehiring of experienced professionals who have retired. This change is particularly impactful given the ongoing challenges in maintaining adequate staffing levels within law enforcement and firefighting agencies. By allowing retired officers and firefighters to return to work without losing their retirement benefits, the bill could promote greater flexibility in staffing and the utilization of seasoned personnel in critical public safety roles.
Summary
Assembly Bill 36 proposes an amendment to the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) regarding annuitants who are rehired by a participating employer. Current law requires individuals receiving a retirement or disability annuity to suspend these benefits if they take a position with a WRS-participating employer. AB36 introduces a significant exception to this rule. Specifically, it allows retired law enforcement officers and firefighters to return to work while continuing to receive their annuity, provided certain conditions are met.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its intent to bolster public safety, some concerns have been raised regarding its financial implications. Critics argue that allowing retirees to draw their full annuity while being hired could lead to increased costs for the WRS. Additionally, there may be concerns about the potential effects on reduction of new hiring opportunities for younger candidates in law enforcement and firefighting sectors. The balance between utilizing experienced individuals and creating pathways for new entrants into these professions remains a point of contention among lawmakers.