HB1136 Summary

• Removes the exception clause and clarifies that active members with 5 or more years of actual and reciprocal service who become totally and permanently incapacitated may apply for disability retirement through the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System Board of Trustees.

• Prohibits members eligible for regular retirement under § 24-7-701 from obtaining disability retirement benefits.

• Requires members to meet termination of covered employment requirements under § 24-7-502 and establishes that a member is considered active for an additional fiscal year after rendering actual service if they obtain at least one-fourth (¼) year of service credit.

• Defines service credit to include days of service with paid sick leave covered by the employer, and specifies that disability retirement becomes effective from the date the written application is filed and the member is no longer employed.

• Prohibits disability retirement recipients from being employed by a system-covered employer or indirectly employed through contractors or entities that contract with system employers if the member has substantial control over the employer-employee relationship.

• Declares an emergency and makes the act effective July 1, 2013, to align with the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System's fiscal year.