Bill > SB5306

This bill modifies the existing law regarding pension service credit for authorized leaves of absence for public employees. The bill clarifies and expands provisions for members who take various types of leave, including paid and unpaid absences. Specifically, it allows members up to two years of service credit for unpaid leaves of absence during their entire working career, with a new provision that if the member retires instead of returning to work, they are still eligible for this credit. The bill also adds language about how contributions for such service credit will be calculated, including adjustments for cost-of-living or pay increases during the leave period. Additionally, the bill maintains existing provisions for service credit for military service, including allowances for members who leave employment to serve in the uniformed services, provisions for service members who become disabled, and options for surviving spouses or children to obtain service credit in cases of military service-related death. The changes aim to provide more flexibility and protection for public employees who take authorized leaves of absence or serve in the military, ensuring they can maintain and potentially purchase service credit under various circumstances.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5306&Year=2025&Initiative=false