Bill > HB336

This bill expands the definition of "peace officer" and allows certain retired public employees to return to work under specific conditions. The legislation modifies existing laws to permit retired members who previously worked in specific public safety roles to be reemployed by an affiliated public employer after a short break in service. Eligible positions include roles such as correctional officers, emergency medical technicians, firefighters, police officers, and peace officers. Key provisions include that the retired member must have retired before December 31, 2023, can continue receiving their pension during reemployment, cannot accrue additional service credit, and must pay required contributions. The bill limits reemployment to 36 consecutive months of pension payments and requires that the position being filled must have a vacancy rate of at least 10%. Additionally, if budgetary restrictions require layoffs, reemployed retired members must be the first to be laid off. The bill broadly defines "peace officer" to include individuals appointed by the attorney general or district attorney who are certified law enforcement officers, as well as state employees with duties to maintain public order or make arrests. This legislation aims to address workforce needs in critical public safety positions by allowing experienced retired professionals to temporarily return to work.

Health and Social Services, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=336&year=25