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HB 23

RETIREMENT/STATE EMPS: Grants a cost-of-living adjustment to eligible retirees and beneficiaries (EN +$235,000,000 APV)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Roy Adams and 22 co-sponsors

HB 23 authorizes cost-of-living adjustments for Louisiana state employee retirees and beneficiaries, increasing pension obligations and requiring dedicated funding mechanisms.

Effective date: 06/30/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 23

Legislative bill overview

HB 23 proposes granting cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) to eligible retirees and beneficiaries in Louisiana's state employee retirement system. The bill was prefiled on January 20, 2026, and referred to the Committee on Retirement for initial consideration.

Why is this important

Cost-of-living adjustments directly affect the purchasing power of retirees living on fixed pension income, which has real consequences for their ability to afford housing, healthcare, and basic expenses as inflation fluctuates. Louisiana's state pension system is a significant long-term liability, and COLA provisions impact both current beneficiary welfare and the system's long-term financial sustainability.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: COLA provisions increase long-term pension obligations; determining the adjustment percentage and funding mechanism could strain state budgets or require contribution increases
  • Eligibility criteria: Disputes may arise over which retirees qualify (e.g., age thresholds, service requirements, benefit tiers) and whether beneficiaries of deceased retirees are included
  • Funding source: Whether COLA is funded through general revenue, increased employer/employee contributions, or investment returns will shape political support and stakeholder opposition

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

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