This bill amends the eligibility criteria for surviving spouses to receive survivor annuity benefits under the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System. Specifically, it reduces the required duration of marriage from two years to one year immediately preceding the active member's death. This change aims to simplify the process for surviving spouses to access benefits, ensuring they receive an annuity calculated as if the active member had retired on the date of their death and elected to provide full survivor benefits.

Additionally, the bill includes an emergency clause, stating the need for immediate revisions to the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System to address administrative complexities and align with sound public pension policy. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, coinciding with the start of the fiscal year, to facilitate proper administration of the updated provisions. The urgency of these changes is emphasized as necessary for the protection of member benefits and the clarity of reporting and contribution requirements for participating employers.

Statutes affected:
HB 1156: 24-7-710(b)
Act 224: 24-7-710(b)