Restricting participation in Teachers Retirement System by members who serve as officer in professional teaching association
Impact
If passed, SB113 will amend existing statutes related to the STRS by clarifying the conditions under which teachers and non-teachers can receive service credit for their time spent serving as officers in professional teaching associations. It introduces a provision that members or retirants who serve in such capacities will not be penalized with absence from service status for retirement calculations, thereby allowing them to maintain their earning potential in their retirement profiles. This could entice more educators to take on leadership roles within these associations without worrying about their tenure effects.
Summary
Senate Bill 113 addresses the membership criteria of the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) in West Virginia by determining how service credits are granted for teachers who serve as officers in statewide professional teaching associations. This bill proposes that such members should not be considered absent from their teaching service while fulfilling their roles in these associations. It aims to ensure that their time spent in these leadership positions is credited as teaching service, ultimately affecting their retirement benefits positively.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB113 appears to be generally supportive among educators and teachers' unions, who see it as a means to enhance professional engagement without compromising retirement benefits. The bill is likely viewed as progressive, aimed at recognizing the contributions of educators who engage in association leadership roles. However, some concerns may be raised regarding the implications of this on the overall funding and sustainability of the retirement system, potentially leading to discussions about the allocation of funds.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from the bill's implications for the state's fiscal responsibilities regarding teacher retirement funds. Questions could emerge about how facilitating additional service credits for active educators as association officers might strain the retirement system's finances or lead to inequities among differing educator roles. Additionally, if the legislation is seen as overly favorable to teachers in leadership positions, it could spark debates on fairness regarding service credits and benefits for all educators within the system.
Providing members of State Teachers Retirement System are absent from service while serving as officer with statewide professional teaching association
Permitting membership of the state teachers retirement system to include any person who has been retired by any other retirement system administered by the Board at the option of the retirant