Bill > S04581

This bill authorizes an optional retirement plan for uniformed court officers and peace officers employed by the unified court system, allowing them to retire after 25 years of creditable service with a pension equal to one-half of their final average salary, regardless of age. The bill creates a new section in the retirement and social security law that defines creditable service as including work as a uniformed court officer or peace officer, and also allows members to count previous service in law enforcement, firefighting, or other public safety roles towards their retirement. The plan provides flexibility for these officers, enabling them to retire earlier than traditional retirement age while still receiving a substantial pension benefit. Members can choose this plan as an alternative to existing retirement options, and it applies specifically to those working in the unified court system. The bill also specifies that all past service costs associated with implementing this new retirement option will be borne by the State of New York, with an estimated initial cost of approximately $121 million and an expected annual increase of around $30 million in state contributions.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4581