Bill > H0838

This bill makes several changes to the State Employees' Retirement System, primarily concerning membership groups and disability retirement benefits. It clarifies who qualifies as an "employee" for retirement purposes, specifically expanding the definition to include certain law enforcement officers, facility employees of the Department of Corrections, employees of facilities for justice-involved youth, employees of the Vermont Psychiatric Care Hospital, sheriffs, deputy sheriffs with specific certifications, classified employees of the Department for Children and Families, fire academy site coordinators, assistant State fire marshals, force protection officers, and law enforcement certification and training coordinators. The bill also modifies the accidental and occupationally related disability retirement provisions, particularly for "Group C members" (employees in certain public safety roles), by adjusting how their benefits are calculated and ensuring a minimum allowance that considers Social Security benefits and dependent children. Additionally, it introduces a provision allowing "Group F members" (a specific group of state employees) who move into a position that would place them in "Group G" to elect to remain in Group F. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.838