This bill amends existing laws regarding public retirement systems in Iowa by introducing provisions for the forfeiture of certain pension benefits for public employees convicted of felonies. Specifically, it establishes that upon a felony conviction, a public employee will lose all rights to their pension prior to a bona fide retirement, and the pension will be revoked by the relevant retirement system. The bill defines key terms such as "public employee," "conviction," and "system," and mandates that the clerk of the district court notify the applicable retirement system of any felony convictions. Accumulated contributions made by the public employee will be returned to them, while any benefits received beyond their contributions must be returned to the system.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the portion of the revoked pension not attributable to the employee's contributions will be treated as property subject to forfeiture under Iowa Code chapter 809A, allowing the system to seize that portion. The legislation also clarifies that it will not affect rights related to marital property, spousal support, or child support orders, nor will it impair the rights of governmental entities to collect amounts for the victim compensation fund. The bill includes several new subsections to existing laws to facilitate these changes and ensure proper notification and procedures are followed in the event of a felony conviction.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 602.8102, 97D.6, 901.5