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Bill

36-0061

An Act amending title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 27, section 706 and chapter 28A, section 755 allowing retirees who are receiving an annuity from the Government Employees Retirement System who are subsequently employed by the University of the Virgin Islands (“UVI”), to continue to receive their GERS annuity while receiving their salary from the University if the retiree enrolls in a different retirement plan

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill permits retired government workers to collect GERS pensions while employed at UVI if they enroll in UVI's separate retirement plan instead of GERS.

Introduced
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · 36-0061

Legislative bill overview

This bill modifies Virgin Islands retirement law to allow government employees who have already retired and are receiving pensions from the Government Employees Retirement System (GERS) to work at the University of the Virgin Islands while continuing to collect their GERS annuity—a practice currently prohibited. The retiree would be required to enroll in a separate UVI retirement plan rather than rejoining GERS.

Why is this important

Currently, retired government workers are typically barred from collecting their pension while working for the government again, which discourages experienced professionals from returning to public service. This change could help UVI recruit skilled, experienced workers while allowing retirees to supplement their income. However, it creates questions about pension system sustainability and fairness to other workers.

Potential points of contention

  • Pension system costs: Allowing "double-dipping" (collecting a pension while earning a new salary) increases long-term liabilities and may strain GERS finances, particularly if the UVI retirement plan contributions are insufficient
  • Equity concerns: Creates a benefit available only to retirees while regular employees cannot collect pensions during active employment, potentially raising fairness questions
  • UVI budget impact: The bill requires UVI to fund a separate retirement plan, adding institutional costs during a period when the university may already face financial pressures

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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