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Bill

A 5898

Permits an eligible retirement system member to receive, in lieu of an ordinary death benefit, a death benefit such member would otherwise be entitled to receive

2025 Regular Session Introduced by George Alvarez and 19 co-sponsors

New York bill allows retirement system members to elect alternative death benefit options instead of the standard ordinary death benefit for their beneficiaries.

SUBSTITUTED BY S5083
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Bill Summary · A 5898

Legislative bill overview

Assembly Bill A 5898 modifies New York's retirement system death benefit provisions to allow eligible members to receive alternative death benefit options instead of the standard ordinary death benefit. The bill was substituted by Senate Bill S5083 on June 11, 2025, meaning the Senate version now represents the operative legislation for this policy change.

Why is this important

Death benefits are a critical component of retirement security for public employees and their families. Providing flexible benefit options allows members to better align payouts with their individual circumstances and family needs, potentially improving financial outcomes for beneficiaries.

Potential points of contention

  • Actuarial impact: Allowing alternative benefit structures could shift costs between the retirement system and beneficiaries in ways that need careful modeling to ensure long-term solvency
  • Equity concerns: Different benefit options may inadvertently advantage certain member categories over others based on life expectancy, family structure, or other demographic factors
  • Administrative complexity: Multiple benefit election options increase administrative burden and potential for member confusion or election errors that could result in unintended consequences for beneficiaries

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

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