This bill amends Section 59-1356 of the Idaho Code to allow retired members of the public employee retirement system to serve as bona fide volunteers without being considered reemployed. The new language specifies that a retired member may provide services as a bona fide volunteer for an employer, and such service will not classify them as an employee under the existing definitions. However, to qualify as a bona fide volunteer, the retired member must perform services without any expectation of compensation and not engage in work typically compensated by an employer. If a retired member falsely claims to be a bona fide volunteer, they will be required to repay any retirement allowance payments received, and their retirement will be negated.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions that outline the responsibilities of employers in reporting the employment of retired members to ensure proper suspension of benefits. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025. The amendments aim to clarify the status of retired members who wish to volunteer while ensuring that the integrity of the retirement system is maintained.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 59-1356