The bill amends Chapter 8-2 of the General Laws, which governs the Superior Court, to introduce provisions for retired superior court magistrates. It allows retired magistrates to request reemployment at the direction of the chief justice of the supreme court, subject to their physical and mental competence, to perform services as a magistrate for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days per calendar year. During this time, they will have all the powers and authority of a sitting magistrate, as prescribed by the presiding justice, but will not be authorized to perform any judicial duties. Retired magistrates will not be counted in the number of judicial officers provided by law for the superior court.

The bill also includes provisions for the reemployment of retired magistrates without any forfeiture or reduction of their retirement benefits. They will receive, in addition to their retirement pension, the difference in pay and fringe benefits between their retirement pension and that of a sitting magistrate with comparable state service time. No additional contributions will be taken, and no additional service credits will be granted for this post-retirement service.

Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the efficiency of the Superior Court by utilizing the experience of retired magistrates while ensuring their retirement benefits are protected.

Statutes affected:
732: 36-10-36
732  SUB A: 36-10-36