AR HB1216

Amends Arkansas Code § 24-7-502 to define "terminate" for Arkansas Teacher Retirement System eligibility, requiring employment to have ended with complete severance of the employer-employee relationship.

"Terminate" requires the member has ceased performing services except for duties related to transferring their position and has not obtained employment with another covered employer.

"Terminate" does not include taking a leave of absence or performing job duties without remuneration, except for position transfer-related functions.

Declares an emergency due to reports that some retirement system members were removing themselves from payroll while continuing to work, allowing them to collect retirement benefits and wages simultaneously.

Act becomes effective upon Governor approval, expiration of the veto period, or veto override by the legislature.