Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2072

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to service retirement benefits payable by the Employees Retirement System of Texas to commissioned peace officers employed by the attorney general.

Impact

If passed, SB2072 would modify existing laws to classify peace officers commissioned by the attorney general as law enforcement officers eligible for service retirement benefits. This classification ensures that their retirement benefits align with those of other law enforcement officers in Texas, potentially enhancing the recruitment and retention of personnel within the attorney general's office. It also serves to clarify their status under the state's retirement system, which is essential for their pension calculations and retirement planning.

Summary

SB2072, introduced by Bettencourt and King, aims to amend the Government Code regarding service retirement benefits for commissioned peace officers employed by the attorney general. The bill seeks to ensure that these officers receive appropriate service credit for their years of service, specifically defining their roles and integrating them into the existing framework of law enforcement benefits under the Employees Retirement System of Texas. The measure reflects an effort to recognize the contributions of these peace officers within the state's law enforcement structure.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB2072 predominantly leans towards support from various stakeholders, particularly among law enforcement advocates who see the bill as a necessary acknowledgment of the work done by officers under the attorney general. However, some dissenting voices may express concerns about the implications of expanding benefits amidst budget constraints, suggesting that careful consideration is needed regarding funding and the long-term sustainability of such benefits.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB2072 may arise concerning budgetary implications and the allocation of state resources. Critics could argue that while the intentions behind the bill are commendable, the potential increase in retirement liabilities could strain the state’s finances. Moreover, there could be discussions regarding equity between different law enforcement personnel and whether all categories of officers should receive similar enhancements to their retirement benefits. This juxtaposition brings to light broader questions regarding the state's priorities in law enforcement funding and support.

Companion Bills

TX HB2406

Identical Relating to service retirement benefits payable by the Employees Retirement System of Texas to commissioned peace officers employed by the attorney general.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1737

Relating to service retirement benefits payable by the Employees Retirement System of Texas to certain law enforcement officers and custodial officers.

TX HB4537

Relating to service retirement benefits payable by the Employees Retirement System of Texas to certain law enforcement officers and custodial officers.

TX SB1115

Relating to eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas by certain juvenile correctional officers and caseworkers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB1611

Relating to eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas by certain juvenile correctional officers and caseworkers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB3870

Relating to certain benefits paid by the Employees Retirement System of Texas.

TX SB502

Relating to peace officers commissioned by the Health and Human Services Commission's office of inspector general.

TX HB4419

Relating to peace officers commissioned by the Health and Human Services Commission's office of inspector general.

TX HB4802

Relating to certain benefits payable by the Judicial Retirement System of Texas Plan One and the Judicial Retirement System of Texas Plan Two.

TX HB5632

Relating to designation of a beneficiary by a retiree of the Employees Retirement System of Texas.

TX SB1892

Relating to providing a cost-of-living adjustment applicable to certain benefits paid by the Employees Retirement System of Texas.

Similar Bills

IL SB2087

STATES ATTY-PEACE OFCR-PRIVACY

CA SB605

State attorneys and administrative law judges: compensation.

TX HB2530

Relating to special appointments in suits affecting the parent-child relationship.

LA SB454

Provides for a population based allocation of assistant district attorney positions in the state. (7/1/26) (OR +$397,950 GF EX See Note)

LA HB719

Provides relative to the number of assistant district attorneys in each judicial district (RE +$2,274,000 GF EX See Note)

TX SB888

Relating to the attorney general's defense of a district or county attorney against certain lawsuits in federal court.

TX SB1026

Relating to the authority of the attorney general to prosecute criminal offenses prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX SB2501

Relating to selection of an attorney by an indigent parent as attorney ad litem for the parent in certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship.