DE HB207

Establishes a new "Correction Officer" classification for Department of Correction employees supervising inmates in secured facilities with Hazardous Duty Level A-1 authorization.

Increases employee contribution rates for Correction Officers to 5% of annual compensation (7% for post-2011 Correction Officer employees), compared to standard 3% and 5% rates.

Permits Correction Officers with 25 years of credited service to retire without reduction, requiring a minimum of 20 years of service in the Correction Officer role.

Increases pension multiplier to 2.45% for Correction Officer service beyond 25 years (compared to standard multipliers of 2.0% and 1.85%).

Effectiveness is contingent on receiving a favorable Private Letter Ruling or Determination Letter from the Internal Revenue Service confirming no negative impact on the State Employees' Pension Plan's qualified status, with implementation phases beginning January 1 following approval and retirement eligibility beginning two years later.