The Senate Committee on Rules and Judiciary has held Bill No. 36-0132 while its sponsor and government agencies revise a proposal governing retirement benefits after public-corruption convictions. The vote means the measure did not advance Thursday and has not become law.
Sen. Kenneth Gittens' proposal would create a court-supervised process for suspending retirement benefits after a final felony conviction involving a violation of public trust. Withheld money could potentially be applied to imprisonment costs and restitution, depending on a judge's order.
Personnel, Justice Department and GERS representatives asked for clearer rules covering the standard of proof, appeals, proportionality, employee-paid contributions, innocent dependents and when an administrative hold could begin. Lawmakers also requested analysis of possible effects on the pension system.
Committee members generally supported consequences for public corruption but agreed that the financial penalty should not be automatic or legally vague. The bill can return when the committee chair calls it after additional revisions.
The Legislature should publish the next substitute amendment, agency testimony and any actuarial analysis before the bill returns so employees, retirees and the public can compare the proposed safeguards.
Source published September 11, 2026. Read the original reporting or release for the complete record.
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