GUEST Column

BY SENATOR KARLA BIGHAM

Hello Neighbors, A key legislative commission on pensions has approved two of my bipartisan measures. The first aims to address the widespread shortage of teachers across the state by not forfeiting any amount of their pension if they return to teach in the classroom in the next three years. My former math teacher at Park High School shared this great idea with me. His advocacy will help encourage retired teachers to return to teaching during this critical time.

The second provision is an incentive for the retention and recruitment of firefighters for local fire departments. The bill provides flexibility in the pension vesting schedule for local fire departments. My neighbor, who is also a Captain of a local fire department, brought this idea to me to help address their issues with recruiting new firefighters while also keeping experienced firefighters on the department.

These bills will help recruit teachers and firefighters at a time when they are asking for our support. They were developed because of conversations I had with constituents who shared their stories with me. Both of the bills passed with bipartisan support and are now waiting for a vote by the whole senate.

I discuss my two pensions’ bills and their inclusion in the Pensions omnibus bill.

Let’s keep the conversation going. My office is open for meetings, either virtually or in person. Call (651) 297-8060 or email me at [email protected] to schedule an appointment.

It’s an honor to represent you at the Capitol. Thank you! [email protected] 651-297-8060 Committee Assignments: Civil Law & Data Practices Policy, DFL Lead | Judiciary & Public Safety Finance & Policy | Local Government Policy