This bill amends the Washington public safety employees' retirement system to include specific workers at the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) who serve civilly committed residents or patients found not guilty by reason of insanity. The bill modifies the definition of "member" in RCW 41.37.010 to encompass employees whose primary responsibilities involve providing care or ensuring the safety of these populations at various DSHS facilities. Additionally, it introduces a new section that allows current members of the public employees' retirement system who meet certain eligibility criteria to choose between remaining in their current plan or transitioning to the public safety employees' retirement system.

The bill establishes an election period for eligible employees to make this choice, which lasts until September 1, 2025. If no election is made by that date, employees will remain in their current retirement plan. Furthermore, new employees hired after the effective date of the bill will automatically become members of the public safety employees' retirement system if they meet the specified eligibility requirements. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 41.37.010
Substitute Bill: 41.37.010
Bill as Passed Legislature: 41.37.010
Session Law: 41.37.010