Bill > HB4889

This bill, aimed at providing state retirees with a 10% increase, will gradually implement this raise over a three-year period starting on July 1, 2026. This increase applies to the retirement annuity, which is the regular payment made to a retiree or their beneficiary after they leave public service. The bill also includes provisions for minimum monthly retirement benefits of $1,000 for eligible retirees and $500 for eligible beneficiaries, provided they meet certain age and service requirements as of July 1, 2023, and their current benefits fall below these thresholds. Importantly, years of service as an "elected public official" (defined as a legislator or member of a local government legislative body) or a "temporary legislative employee" will not count towards these minimum benefit calculations. The new minimum benefits are in place of, not in addition to, existing benefits and are not retroactive.

Budget and Finance

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4889&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill