DOVER – Senator Eric Buckson (R-South Dover) introduced Senate Bill 52 (SB 52) on Tuesday, a bipartisan effort aimed at alleviating staffing shortages in schools and state agencies with 24-hour shifts by updating employment rules for state pensioners.
Under current law, pensioners returning to work in designated positions must adhere to a six-month separation of service period and are subject to an annual earnings cap of $50,000. SB 52 seeks to remove the earnings cap starting in 2025, lower the age threshold for separation requirements to those under 59 ½, and reduce the separation period from six months to three. The bill also clarifies that substitute teachers employed by charter schools will be covered under the same provisions as those in public school districts.
Senator Buckson emphasized the importance of these changes in addressing critical workforce needs across the state.
“Our schools and essential state agencies are facing significant staffing shortages, and arbitrary restrictions on pensioners who are willing and able to work are only making the problem worse,” said Senator Buckson. “This bill strikes a balance by allowing experienced professionals to step in where they’re needed most while maintaining compliance with federal regulations. It’s a practical solution that benefits both our workforce and our communities.”
SB 52 has been assigned to the Senate Elections and Government Affairs Committee.
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