This bill amends several sections of Washington state law to provide retired individuals from various public retirement systems, including the public employees', teachers', school employees', and public safety employees' retirement systems, with additional opportunities to work while receiving pension benefits. Specifically, it allows retirees to work up to 1,040 hours per year in nonadministrative positions within school districts without suspending their pension payments, provided they reenter employment more than one month after their accrual date. This provision is applicable until January 1, 2030, and is aimed at addressing workforce shortages in public education and other sectors.

The bill also includes amendments to existing regulations regarding the reduction of retirement benefits for retirees who return to work sooner than one month after their accrual date. It modifies the previous limit of 867 hours of work per year to the new limit of 1,040 hours for certain retirees, while maintaining the stipulation that any retiree who works more than this limit will have their pension payments suspended. Additionally, the bill declares an emergency, indicating that it is necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety, and takes effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 41.32.570, 41.32.802, 41.32.862, 41.35.060, 41.40.037
Substitute Bill: 41.32.570, 41.32.802, 41.32.862, 41.35.060, 41.37.050, 41.40.037