The bill, RBH No. 10625, amends various sections of the Oklahoma Firefighters Pension and Retirement System, focusing on definitions, death benefits, and member contributions. It clarifies the definition of "Contributions" by explicitly excluding payments for repurchasing credited service, transferring credited service from another retirement system, and purchasing prior military service. The bill also enhances death benefits, ensuring that beneficiaries of deceased firefighters can receive up to 100% of the pension based on the circumstances of the firefighter's death. Additionally, it introduces new procedures for members regarding the repayment of contributions and the purchase of credited services, including military service credit, allowing for amortized payments and establishing limitations on such purchases.
Moreover, the bill modifies provisions related to surviving spouses and children of firefighters, stipulating that pensions cease upon the death of a surviving spouse but are passed on to living children, with specific provisions for disabled children. It also allows members who terminate service before retirement to receive a refund of their contributions, introduces requirements for purchasing transferred credited service, and sets a maximum limit on credited service under the system. The bill mandates the State Board to create necessary rules for implementation and is set to take effect on November 1, 2025. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the clarity and accessibility of pension benefits for Oklahoma firefighters and their families.