Senate Bill No. 456, introduced by Senator Talbot, amends and reenacts R.S. 11:1384(A) and enacts new provisions in R.S. 11:551(C), (D), and (E) and 566(C) concerning the compensation and eligibility of assigned retired judges in Louisiana. The bill clarifies that certain membership eligibility restrictions do not apply to retired judges serving on assignments, allowing them to make irrevocable elections regarding their membership service, retirement eligibility, benefits, and contributions within 30 days of employment. Additionally, it defines "membership in one of the state systems" to include the initial date a judge or court officer became a member of any public retirement system.

The bill also modifies the compensation structure for assigned retired judges, allowing the supreme court to set compensation on a contractual or per diem basis, which is in addition to their retirement pay. The compensation is capped at one-twentieth of the monthly salary of a judge for each day of service, with a maximum of 120 working days per fiscal year. However, if the compensation is less than three-fifths of the specified amount, the annual limitation on working days does not apply. The bill ensures that the assignment of a retired judge does not affect their pension or retirement status and mandates that any costs incurred will be funded through additional employer contributions. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
SB456 Original: 11:1384(A)