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Bill

Bill

SB 176

Retirement benefits, circuit clerks authorized to participate in supernumerary program and Employees' Retirement System based on separate years of service

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Stewart

Alabama bill allows circuit court clerks to accrue separate retirement service credits while working part-time supernumerary positions, increasing pension obligations.

Currently Indefinitely Postponed
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Bill Summary · SB 176

Legislative bill overview

SB 176 allows circuit court clerks in Alabama to participate in a supernumerary (part-time/reduced-duty) program while maintaining eligibility for the Employees' Retirement System. The bill enables these clerks to accrue separate years of service credit based on their work in the supernumerary capacity, potentially affecting their retirement benefits calculation.

Why is this important

Circuit clerks nearing retirement may use reduced-duty arrangements to transition toward full retirement while continuing to accrue service time. This affects both individual retirement security and the long-term liabilities of Alabama's public pension system, as additional service credits mean higher retirement payouts.

Potential points of contention

  • Pension cost impact: Allowing additional service credit accrual increases unfunded liabilities in the Employees' Retirement System, potentially requiring higher contributions from the state or counties
  • Equity concerns: This provision applies specifically to circuit clerks; questions arise about whether similar flexibility should extend to other court or public employees
  • Administrative complexity: Separating service credits for supernumerary work from regular service requires new tracking and calculation procedures

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

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