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HB 3194

PEN CD-SURS-SURVIVORS BENEFITS

104th Regular Session Introduced by Janet Yang Rohr and 1 co-sponsor

Illinois HB 3194 modifies survivor benefits for deceased public employees' families, adjusting eligibility and benefit calculations within the state pension system.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 3194

Legislative bill overview

HB 3194 modifies survivor benefits for Illinois public employees under the state's pension system. The bill adjusts how benefits are calculated and distributed to spouses and dependents of deceased public sector workers. The specific provisions determine eligibility criteria and benefit levels for survivors.

Why is this important

Survivor benefits directly affect financial security for families of public employees who die in service or after retirement. Changes to these benefits impact both the beneficiaries receiving support and the long-term costs to Illinois pension funds, which face significant funding challenges. This affects thousands of public employee families across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Any expansion of survivor benefits increases pension fund liabilities at a time when Illinois faces substantial unfunded pension obligations, potentially requiring higher taxpayer contributions
  • Fairness across systems: Different public pension systems in Illinois (IMRF, TRS, SERS, etc.) have varying benefit structures; changes to one may create inequities or pressure to modify others
  • Definition of eligibility: Disputes may arise over who qualifies as a dependent or survivor, particularly regarding unmarried partners, adult children, or extended family members

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

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