This bill amends various sections of the General Laws related to longevity payments for non-classified employees, state employees, and employees of quasi-public corporations. It establishes that non-classified employees of the Board of Governors for Higher Education and the Board of Regents for Elementary and Secondary Education are entitled to longevity payments. Specifically, it allows for a longevity payment of 5% of their base salary after ten years of service, increasing to 10% after twenty years.

The bill also includes a provision that, beginning on July 1, 2026, state employees may negotiate longevity payments in their subsequent collective bargaining agreements, notwithstanding any existing rules, regulations, or provisions of public or general laws to the contrary. This change applies across various sectors, including the legislative and judicial branches, as well as quasi-public corporations. The bill aims to provide clarity and consistency in the treatment of longevity payments while allowing for future negotiations.

Statutes affected:
7055: 16-59-7.2, 16-60-7.2, 36-6-22, 36-16.2-1