HB 5854 Summary

• Amends the Judges Retirement Act of 1992 to establish health reimbursement accounts (HRAs) for eligible judges and create new definitions related to retirement plan contributions and health care benefits.

• Creates a medical benefit account within the reserve for health benefits allowing eligible circuit court, district court, and probate court judges to make voluntary contributions up to specified limits, with earnings adjusted for investment performance and medical benefit payments.

• Establishes mandatory 2% contributions to health reimbursement accounts beginning on the HRA effective date for HRA members, with employers authorized to contribute additional amounts and establish administrative and investment fee structures.

• Redirects member health benefit contributions from the reserve for health benefits to a new funding account and allows qualified participants in Tier 2 to make additional contributions up to 6% of salary with employer matching during a specified period related to a prior court restraining order.

• Specifies that the amendment does not create new health care benefit entitlements beyond those previously granted and does not restrict the state's ability to modify or eliminate existing health care benefits.