Bill > HB1156

This bill amends the state law regarding the deferred compensation program to explicitly include volunteer firefighters as eligible participants. Specifically, the bill modifies the definition of "employee" in RCW 41.50.770 to add volunteer firefighter participants under RCW 41.24.010(8)(a) to the list of those who can participate in the state's deferred compensation program. This means that volunteer firefighters will now be able to defer a portion of their income into an investment plan, similar to full-time, part-time, and career seasonal employees of the state, counties, municipalities, and other political subdivisions. The bill also clarifies that participation in this optional salary deferral program will not make volunteer firefighters ineligible for simultaneous membership in other public employee pension systems. The changes aim to provide volunteer firefighters with additional financial planning options and recognition for their important public service.