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HB 783

Retirees; may be employed full time in critical need or shortage position with PERS employer and draw full benefits.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jonathan McMillan

Mississippi bill allows PERS retirees to work full-time in critical shortage positions while drawing full retirement benefits simultaneously, increasing pension costs.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 783

Legislative bill overview

HB 783 would allow Mississippi public employees who have retired under the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) to work full-time in critical need or shortage positions with PERS employers while simultaneously drawing their full retirement benefits. Currently, PERS retirees face restrictions on post-retirement employment earnings that can reduce their benefits. This bill carves out an exception for positions designated as critical needs or shortages.

Why is this important

Many states face workforce shortages in essential roles (healthcare, education, public safety), and retired employees represent a pool of experienced workers. Allowing them to return without losing retirement income could help fill gaps while providing retirees additional income. However, this creates fiscal pressure on pension systems and raises questions about whether full benefit receipt is appropriate for those earning current employment income.

Potential points of contention

  • Pension system sustainability: Allowing simultaneous benefit receipt and full-time wages increases PERS obligations without corresponding increased contributions, potentially straining fund solvency
  • Definition of "critical need or shortage": The bill lacks specificity on what positions qualify, potentially allowing broad interpretation or political manipulation of eligible roles
  • Fairness concerns: Other PERS retirees and active employees may view this as preferential treatment that creates two-tiered retirement rules based on employer demand rather than individual circumstances

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

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