STATEHOUSE — State Rep. Woody Burton (R-Whiteland) authored legislation regarding pension thirteenth checks, which passed the Indiana House of Representatives on Tuesday with a unanimous vote. The bill is coauthored by State Reps. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield), Ed Clere (R-New Albany), Suzanne Crouch (R-Evansville), Dave Frizzell (R-Indianapolis), Rebecca Kubacki (R-Syracuse), Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne), Milo Smith (R-Columbus), Ed Soliday (R-Valparaiso), Greg Steuerwald (R-Avon) and Kathy Richardson (R-Noblesville).

“In the Pension Management Oversight Commission this summer, we looked at legislation regarding the retirement process for public employees,” said Rep. Burton. “This bill is a result of that discussion and serves to provide additional funds for retired teachers, police officers and public employees.”

House Bill (HB) 1080 provides a one-time thirteenth check, based on years of service, to eligible members of the Public Employees Retirement Fund and Teachers Retirement Fund. It will also apply to State Excise Police, Gaming Agents, Gaming Control Officers and members of the Conservation Enforcement Officers’ Retirement Plan.

“It is often necessary to revisit pension amounts to adjust for inflation, rising costs of living and economic volatility,” said Rep. Burton. “In light of the recent recession and the increasing costs of living, a thirteenth check would allow a one-time lump sum of money for Hoosiers who have dedicated years of selfless service to our state.”

HB 1080 will move to the Senate for further discussion and debate. To stay up-to-date on this bill and any other piece of legislation in the General Assembly, visit www.in.gov/legislative.

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