Allows retired teachers, state and municipal workers to be employed without the loss of any retirement benefits, as long as they reside in Rhode Island at least 270 days and have an annual income from all sources that is less than $55,000.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would allow retired teachers, state employees, and municipal workers in Rhode Island to return to work without losing any of their retirement benefits (pension payments). Under current law, retirees who go back to work can have their pension benefits reduced or suspended. This bill would change that rule for people who meet certain conditions.

To qualify for this protection, a retired worker would need to meet two requirements: they must live in Rhode Island for at least 270 days out of the year, and their total income from all sources — including wages, pension, and any other earnings — must be less than $55,000 annually. As long as both conditions are met, the retiree could take on employment and continue receiving their full pension without any penalty or reduction.

This bill primarily affects retired public school teachers, state government employees, and local municipal workers who are receiving pension benefits through Rhode Island's retirement system. It could be especially helpful for retirees who want or need to supplement their pension income through part-time or full-time work without facing a financial penalty for doing so. Employers, particularly schools and government agencies, could also benefit by having access to experienced workers they might otherwise struggle to hire.

The bill has been introduced and referred to the Senate Labor and Gaming Committee, where it will be reviewed before any further action is taken.