Brian Buchanan

Modifies the definition of "average of the annual compensation" for a member of the public employees' retirement fund (PERF) who retires after December 31, 2026. Specifies that compensation received in contemplation of retirement is excluded from the average of the annual compensation for particular members of PERF and the Indiana state teachers' retirement fund (TRF). Repeals a provision requiring the board of trustees of the Indiana public retirement system (board) to maintain separate accounts for each unit of local government. Provides that amounts forfeited under the public employees defined contribution plan must be used as determined by the board. (Current law requires these amounts to be used to reduce the unfunded accrued liability of PERF.) Specifies a process by which a fully vested member of the public employees' defined contribution plan or the teachers' defined contribution plan may irrevocably elect to participate in PERF or TRF, as applicable. Modifies the information that must be included in a delinquency notice to a delinquent political subdivision. Specifies the circumstances under which an employer under the 1977 police officers' and firefighters' pension and disability fund is required to pay for certain mental health care and treatment. Makes conforming amendments. (The introduced version of this bill was prepared by the interim study committee on pension management oversight.)