Bill > SB865

This bill allows certain law enforcement employees of the Forest Heights Police Department to optionally join the Law Enforcement Officers' Pension System (LEOPS), a state retirement system for law enforcement personnel. Specifically, employees of the Forest Heights Police Department who choose to join LEOPS on or before the effective date will receive service credit for up to 50% of their prior employment with the department. To join, employees must file a written application with the State Retirement Agency, and this election is a one-time, irrevocable decision. If an employee does not elect membership during the specified period, they cannot subsequently become a member of LEOPS. The bill requires that at least 60% of the police department's law enforcement officers petition to join the system, and the legislative body must approve participation. Employees who join will receive eligibility and creditable service credit equal to half of their employment time with the Forest Heights Police Department before the effective date, as certified by the department. The bill will take effect on June 1, 2025, providing a clear timeline for implementation of these pension system modifications.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0865?ys=2025RS