Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2247

Introduced
1/23/26  

Caption

Expands the positions that a person in the state retirement system could have at a state college or university post-retirement.

Impact

The legislation proposes that retired members can take on part-time roles at state colleges and universities without forfeiting their retirement benefits. However, it stipulates a cap on the total income they can earn while receiving these benefits, which is set at $25,000 for most roles, with specific allowances for teaching driver education and other specialized positions capped at lower amounts. This structure intends to create opportunities for retirees while managing state pension liabilities effectively.

Summary

Bill S2247, titled 'An Act Relating to Public Officers and Employees - Retirement System - Contributions and Benefits', modifies the regulations surrounding post-retirement employment for members of the state retirement system in Rhode Island. The bill expands the range of positions that retired members may occupy at state colleges or universities beyond just teaching roles. This adjustment aims to allow the state to utilize the experience and expertise of retired professionals in various capacities, thereby enhancing the quality of services offered at these institutions.

Contention

Debate surrounding S2247 primarily revolves around concerns about the implications of allowing expanded post-retirement work opportunities. Proponents argue that the bill is a positive step towards maximizing the utilization of skilled professionals who have valuable experience to offer. Conversely, critics may raise concerns about the sustainability of pension systems and the potential for overstepping employment caps, which could lead to complications in managing retirement finances. Therefore, while there is support for providing alternatives for retirees, there exists a cautious consideration regarding the fiscal health of the retirement system and its long-term implications.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0184

Expands the positions that a person in the state retirement system could have at a state college or university post-retirement.

RI H5763

Allows any retired member of the state retirement system to serve as a member of the state labor relations board.

RI H5525

Exempts teachers and state employees who have been retired for more than three (3) full calendar years, from having their retirement benefit adjustment reduced based upon the funded ratio of the employees' retirement system of Rhode Island.

RI S0414

Permits paid members on the state labor relations board to continue to receive their retirement benefits.

RI S0800

Allows retired state employees who worked for the unified judicial system as certified or qualified court interpreters to be employed or reemployed for a limited period in a given year.

RI H5972

Allows retired state employees who worked for the unified judicial system as certified or qualified court interpreters to be employed or reemployed for a limited period in a given year.

RI H6002

Permits retired state employees to receive mileage and wages, if applicable, equal to that of full-time members of the board or commission; provided, however, in no event shall the amount be greater than ten thousand dollars ($10,000) per year.

RI H5198

Allows teachers, state and municipal employees to retire upon the earlier of reaching age sixty (60) with thirty (30) years of service or the employee's retirement eligibility date under present state statutes.

RI S0450

Allows teachers, state and municipal employees to retire upon the earlier of reaching age sixty (60) with thirty (30) years of service or the employee's retirement eligibility date under present state statutes.

RI H5021

Adds administrator of community confinement and the home confinement coordinator to the state retirement system.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.