HB4661 Summary

• Amends the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code to allow members to establish optional credit for up to 2 years of service as a teacher or administrator at private schools recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education.

• Applicants must have been certified as teachers under state law at the time of service, apply by June 30, 2021, provide evidence of employment, complete at least 10 years of contributing service, and pay required contributions.

• Members may apply and pay contributions before completing the 10-year service requirement, but the credit cannot be used until that requirement is satisfied.

• Service credit cannot be used for credit in any other state tax-supported public employee retirement system (except Social Security) and is effective upon completion of required contributions.

• Takes effect immediately upon becoming law.