This bill amends current law to extend law enforcement officer (LEO) benefits to certain campus police officers who are enrolled in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). Specifically, it adds a new definition of "law enforcement officer" to include permanent and full-time campus police officers appointed under P.L.1970, c.211, who do not meet the age or medical requirements for enrollment in the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS). This change allows these campus police officers to access enhanced retirement benefits that are typically reserved for other law enforcement personnel.

The bill clarifies that members of the LEO category are eligible for improved retirement benefits compared to standard PERS members. It also stipulates that any member who qualifies for the LEO category will automatically be enrolled unless they choose to waive this right. If a member waives participation in the LEO category, they will be placed in the regular part of the retirement system, receiving standard benefits while still being subject to mandatory retirement provisions applicable to LEO-eligible positions. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43:15A-97