AR SB65

Establishes maximum of 87 regular employees for the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System for fiscal year 2023-2024, including positions ranging from ATRS Director (Grade SE04) to Maintenance Specialist (Grade GS03)

Authorizes up to 20 part-time or temporary "Extra Help" employees at rates not exceeding those provided in the Uniform Classification and Compensation Act

Appropriates $243,994,149 from the Teacher Retirement Fund for personal services and operating expenses, including $5,117,243 for regular salaries, $1,801,251 for personal services matching, and $200,000,000 for benefits

Appropriates $1,706,000,000 in cash funds for payments to beneficiaries by check or wire transfer, comprised of $1,700,000,000 for non-employee benefits and $6,000,000 for refunds/reimbursements

Effective July 1, 2023, with emergency clause declaring necessity for immediate implementation to ensure continued operation of the retirement system