SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2340

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of February 28, 2020

Title: An act relating to the definition of index for the Washington state patrol retirement system.

Brief Description: Modifying the definition of index for the Washington state patrol retirement system.

Sponsors: Representatives Fitzgibbon, Leavitt, Lovick, Ormsby and Volz; by request of Select Committee on Pension Policy.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/12/20, 96-0.

Committee Activity: Ways & Means: 2/26/20.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Allows the cash value of unused leave to be included in the calculation of pension benefits for certain members of the Washington State Patrol Retirement System.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON WAYS & MEANS

Staff: Amanda Cecil (786-7460)

Background: The Washington State Patrol Retirement System (WSPRS) was created in 1947 and covers all commissioned officers of the Washington State Patrol (WSP). In 2001, Engrossed Senate Bill 5143 was enacted, closing WSPRS Plan 1 as of December 31, 2002, and creating a Plan 2, covering fully commissioned officers entering the system on or after January 1, 2003.

In addition to creating Plan 2, ESB 5143 modified the definition of salary for calculating pension benefits for all WSPRS members. Under the new definition, the salary for members enrolled in WSPRS on or after July 1, 2001, excluded the lump sum payments for holiday pay, unused sick, vacation and annual leave, or any form of severance. The salary for WSPRS members enrolled prior to July 1, 2001, still included the lump sum payments in calculating pension benefits.

Summary of Bill: The definition of salary for calculating pension benefits for WSPRS Plan 1 members that entered the system on or after July 1, 2001, is changed to allow for including lump sum payments for holiday pay and unused vacation and annual leave.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill is truly technical. It makes this systems language line up with the other systems that get an annual adjustment.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Jeff DeVere, Washington State Patrol Lieutenants and Captains Association; Davor Gjurasic, WSP Troopers Association.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.