This bill amends RCW 41.50.770 to include volunteer firefighters as eligible participants in the state deferred compensation program. Specifically, it adds the phrase "volunteer firefighter participants under RCW 41.24.010(8)(a)" to the definition of "employee," thereby allowing these individuals to defer a portion of their income into the program. Additionally, the bill clarifies that coverage under optional salary deferral programs will not affect an employee's eligibility for participation in any public employee pension system.

The legislation also mandates that by December 1, 2023, the department must offer a Roth option within the deferred compensation plan. It maintains existing provisions regarding the administration of the plan, including the requirement for new full-time employees to be automatically enrolled unless they opt out, and allows for self-directed investment options for participants. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the benefits available to volunteer firefighters while ensuring they can participate in retirement savings programs without jeopardizing their pension eligibility.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 41.50.770
Bill as Passed Legislature: 41.50.770