MS SB2774

First responders (firefighters and law enforcement officers with 10+ years of service) hired on or after July 1, 2011, earn one year of creditable service at no cost for every five years served, provided they have no felony convictions at retirement

Reduces the vesting period for retirement benefits from eight years to four years for first responders who joined the Public Employees' Retirement System on or after July 1, 2007

Defines "first responder" as firefighters employed full-time or registered as volunteers with 10+ years of service, and law enforcement officers certified by the Mississippi Board on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Training with 10+ years of service

First responders who became members on or after July 1, 2007, and maintained at least four years of membership service qualify for prior service credit, disability benefits, and survivor benefits under the same terms as members who joined before July 1, 2007

Effective date of July 1, 2022