AR SB162

Amends Arkansas Code § 24-4-520(b)(1) to create an exception to the 180-day termination requirement for retirement eligibility under the Arkansas Public Employees' Retirement System for members returning to temporary legislative employment.

Members returning to temporary employment with the House of Representatives, Senate, Bureau of Legislative Research, Arkansas Legislative Audit, or Arkansas Code Revision Commission during a regular, fiscal, or special session are exempt from the 180-day rule if the position requires specialized institutional knowledge and experience.

Members with service credit under § 24-4-521 at a rate of two or more years of credited service per year of actual service may return to covered employment within one year (instead of 180 days) of their retirement effective date without losing retirement status.

Declares an emergency based on COVID-19 pandemic impacts to state government operations during the 2021 Regular Session and the need to retain experienced personnel for legislative functions.

Provides for immediate effectiveness upon gubernatorial approval, non-action by the Governor, or veto override by the legislature.