Bill > LD1124

This bill introduces several key provisions for judicial branch employees, focusing on retirement and compensation benefits. First, it allows judicial employees to retire before age 65 if they have completed 35 consecutive years of creditable service. Additionally, the bill mandates that the State will cover 100% of the health insurance premium for such retirees until they reach 65 years old or become eligible for Medicare. To offset the costs of early retirement, the Department of Administrative and Financial Services is required to calculate the salary savings resulting from these retirements and use those savings to increase salaries for judicial branch employees. Specifically, the salary increases will prioritize positions that have been identified as underpaid when compared to regional and national salary standards. This approach aims to provide more flexible retirement options for judicial employees while also addressing potential compensation disparities within the judicial branch. The provisions are set to take effect starting in the fiscal year 2026-27, giving time for implementation and planning.

Justice, Labor and Employment

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1124&snum=132