Louisiana House directs retirement study for longtime public college employees

The task force must examine retirement differences and possible remedies. The study focuses on longtime Optional Retirement Plan participants and recent transfers to the guaranteed-pension plan, including employees with 20 or more years of service. The study covers pension options, credit for past work and unused leave, retirement taxes, employer contributions, and gaps from lacking Social Security coverage. It also examines permanent plan choices, breaks in employment, and earlier task force findings. These are subjects for study; the resolution grants no retirement benefits.

Education boards and state officials must appoint task force members. The task force must send written findings and recommendations to the House Committee on Retirement. The task force includes plan participants, education representatives, and state officials. The House speaker must appoint at least two representatives of participants with 20 or more years of service, including at least one who switched to the guaranteed-pension plan. Members receive no pay. The Division of Administration provides staff support. The Department of Revenue and legislative auditor provide information and analysis when asked. Appointee names and contact information were due July 1, 2026. The commissioner of administration had to call the first meeting by August 1, 2026. The report is due no later than 90 days before the 2027 regular legislative session begins.