This bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code concerning the public employees retirement system, introducing key changes to employee classifications and eligibility for benefits. It redefines "temporary employee" to clarify that such individuals are ineligible for permanent employee benefits and must be at least eighteen years old while not contributing to another employer-sponsored retirement fund. Additionally, the bill specifies that individuals must have been continuously employed by a governmental unit in North Dakota for at least two years to qualify for prior service benefits.

The legislation also revises retirement benefits calculations, including the determination of final average salary and early retirement eligibility criteria for peace officers. It ensures that surviving spouses of members who die after their normal retirement date receive a monthly benefit based on a one hundred percent joint and survivor annuity. Furthermore, the bill outlines conditions for automatic refunds of account balances for certain judges and peace officers, updates minimum distribution rules, and clarifies definitions related to wages and eligible employees. Overall, these amendments aim to improve the clarity and functionality of the retirement system while ensuring compliance with federal regulations.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 54-52-01, 54-52-17, 54-52-28, 54-52.1-03.1, 54-52.2-06, 54-52.6-01, 54-52.6-02.2
PREFILED: 54-52-01, 54-52-17, 54-52-28, 54-52.1-03.1, 54-52.2-06, 54-52.6-01, 54-52.6-02.2