Bill > H0395

This bill modifies the Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP) eligibility for school employees by removing time limitations for certain education personnel. Specifically, the bill expands DROP participation options for instructional personnel, administrative personnel, and educational support employees in K-12 schools, including those at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind and developmental research schools. Under the current law, DROP participants are generally limited to 96 calendar months of participation, but this bill eliminates those specific time restrictions for the mentioned education professionals. The bill allows these employees more flexibility in timing their DROP participation and potential retirement, enabling them to extend their participation beyond the previous 96-month limit. Additionally, the bill includes a legislative declaration affirming that providing fair and adequate benefits to government employees and retirees serves an important state interest. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving schools and employees time to prepare for the new DROP participation rules.

Government Affairs

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/395