SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5930

                    As of February 28, 1995

Title:  An act relating to minimum retirement benefits.

Brief Description:  Providing minimum retirement benefits.

Sponsors:  Senators McAuliffe, Owen, Fairley and Long.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Ways & Means:  3/1/95.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON WAYS & MEANS

Staff:  Denise Graham (786-7715)

Background:  There is no minimum benefit for retired members of the Washington State Patrol retirement system.  The minimum monthly benefit for beneficiaries is $13 per year of member service.  It is $23 per year of service for surviving spouses who are not receiving Social Security benefits.

Summary of Bill:  Retired members of the Washington State Patrol system receive a minimum benefit of $500 per month.  Surviving spouses receive a monthly minimum benefit which is the greater of $500 or $23 per year of service.  All surviving spouses are eligible for this benefit, regardless of  Social Security benefits.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.