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Bill

SB 5349

Repealing some postretirement employment restrictions.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Annette Cleveland and 13 co-sponsors

SB 5349 removes postretirement employment restrictions for Washington public employees, allowing retired workers to accept positions previously prohibited without losing benefits.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 5349

Legislative bill overview

SB 5349 would remove or modify restrictions that prevent retired public employees in Washington from working in certain positions after retirement. The bill appears designed to allow former government workers to return to employment without losing retirement benefits or facing employment limitations tied to their prior service.

Why is this important

These restrictions affect thousands of retired teachers, administrators, law enforcement, and other public servants who may want or need to continue working. Removing barriers could help address workforce shortages in critical fields while allowing retirees greater economic flexibility, though it raises questions about pension system costs and fair competition with active employees.

Potential points of contention

  • Pension cost implications: Allowing rehired retirees to work more extensively could increase strain on pension systems if not properly structured, potentially raising costs for current taxpayers and active employees
  • Workforce fairness: Restrictions exist partly to protect job opportunities and advancement for active employees; removing them could disadvantage younger workers competing for positions
  • Benefit preservation: Unclear whether the bill maintains safeguards preventing double-dipping (collecting both pension and salary simultaneously) or if it alters the fundamental pension-employment relationship

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

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