The bill titled "Creating an Investment Opportunity for Early Childhood Workers Act of 2025" aims to provide a voluntary mechanism for early childhood workers to participate in the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System without requiring state funds for matching contributions. The legislative intent emphasizes the inclusion of early childhood workers, defined as individuals providing teaching or supervision in licensed childcare facilities, into the retirement system. The bill specifies that participation is not mandatory and that early childhood workers will not receive state contributions or matching funds.

Additionally, the bill amends existing definitions within the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System to include early childhood workers and establishes a framework for their voluntary participation. A nonprofit fiscal agent approved by the Board of Trustees will facilitate this process, ensuring that early childhood workers can opt into the retirement system if they choose. The bill also mandates that the Board promulgate rules for its implementation, reinforcing the structure for integrating early childhood workers into the retirement system while maintaining the stipulation that no state funds will be allocated for their contributions.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB148 V2 - 3-12-2025 10:10 AM: 24-7-202(21)
Act 587: 24-7-202(21)