The bill amends RCW 41.26.520 to clarify the conditions under which members of the retirement system can purchase service credit for authorized leaves of absence. It specifies that members on paid leaves of absence, including those serving as elected officials of labor organizations, will continue to receive service credit. Additionally, it allows members to receive service credit for up to two years during their entire career for unpaid leaves of absence, provided they make the necessary contributions. Notably, if a member retires instead of returning to work, they are still eligible for this credit, and the contributions required will be based on their salary at the time the leave was granted, adjusted for any cost-of-living increases.

The bill also includes provisions for law enforcement members on part-time leaves of absence and outlines the eligibility criteria for service credit related to military service. It ensures that members who leave for military service can receive up to five years of service credit, with specific conditions for reemployment and contributions. The amendments aim to provide clearer guidelines for service credit accrual during various types of leaves, ensuring that members are fairly compensated for their time away from work under authorized circumstances.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 41.26.520
Bill as Passed Legislature: 41.26.520
Session Law: 41.26.520