House Bill No. by Representative Bacala proposes significant amendments to the Municipal Police Employees' Retirement System (MPERS), introducing a new retirement benefit program known as the Back-Deferred Retirement Option Plan (Back-DROP) and modifying existing provisions related to the Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP). Key changes include new eligibility criteria for retirement benefits, an updated application process for survivor and beneficiary benefits, and the option for certain employees to opt out of the retirement system. The bill also clarifies the conditions under which retirees, particularly former police chiefs, can be reemployed without losing their retirement benefits.

Additionally, the bill includes specific insertions and deletions to refine definitions and eligibility requirements. For example, it mandates that any employee wishing to file an affidavit must do so by December 31, 2024, and introduces a new definition of "employee" that excludes certain individuals. The legislation also modifies the suspension conditions for retirement benefits for reemployed retirees and establishes a timeline for the effective date of survivor benefits based on application submission. Overall, the bill aims to enhance retirement options for municipal police employees while ensuring the sustainability of the retirement system, with an effective date set for July 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
HB36 Original: 11:2213(11), 11:2220(A)(2), 11:2221(A), 11:4(A)(3), 11:4(3), 11:2220(J)(4), 11:2221(K)(4)