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Bill

HB 1349

Concerning the purchase of pension service credit for authorized leaves of absence.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Bergquist and 7 co-sponsors

HB 1349 permits Washington public employees to purchase pension service credit for authorized leave periods, counting non-work time toward retirement benefits and vesting calculations.

By resolution, returned to House Rules Committee for third reading.
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Bill Summary · HB 1349

Legislative bill overview

HB 1349 allows public employees in Washington state to purchase pension service credit for periods during which they took authorized leaves of absence (such as military service, family leave, or other approved absences). This would enable workers to have those non-working periods counted toward their pension eligibility and benefit calculations as if they had been actively employed.

Why is this important

Many public employees face reduced pension benefits due to authorized absences that interrupt their service records, potentially affecting retirement security and long-term financial planning. This bill addresses equity concerns for workers whose career interruptions were approved by employers, particularly military service members, caregivers, and others taking employer-sanctioned leave.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to pension systems: Allowing service credit purchases increases unfunded liabilities for public pension plans, requiring either higher employer contributions, reduced benefits elsewhere, or increased employee costs
  • Fairness questions: Debate over whether all leave types should qualify equally, and whether this primarily benefits higher-income employees who can afford to purchase credit
  • Implementation complexity: Determining which leaves qualify, establishing purchase pricing mechanisms, and administering retroactive credit could create administrative and actuarial challenges

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

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