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Bill

S 3496

Permits non-instructional staff member retired from PERS to return to employment in school district for up to two years without reenrollment in PERS if employment commences during remainder of 2025-2026 and entirety of 2026-2027 school years.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Beach

Bill allows retired non-instructional school staff to work two years without rejoining PERS pension system, easing district staffing without triggering pension re-enrollment costs.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
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Bill Summary · S 3496

Legislative bill overview

S 3496 allows non-instructional school staff members who have retired from the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) to return to work in their school district for up to two years without rejoining PERS. This temporary exemption applies only to employees hired during the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years.

Why is this important

School districts face staffing challenges and budget constraints, and this bill addresses potential workforce gaps by allowing retired employees to return without triggering re-enrollment costs or pension obligations. However, it creates a two-tier employment system where returning retirees receive different retirement benefits than active employees in equivalent positions.

Potential points of contention

  • Pension system equity: Returning retirees continue drawing their pension while earning new wages without contributing to PERS, potentially creating fairness concerns with current employees required to contribute
  • Limited scope and duration: The restriction to non-instructional staff and two school years may be insufficient for districts facing long-term staffing needs, raising questions about why these specific limitations exist
  • Fiscal impact on districts: While potentially saving districts payroll costs for PERS contributions, the bill doesn't clarify whether districts must still provide health insurance or other benefits to these returning employees, which could offset savings

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

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