LANSING, Mich. (Oct. 30, 2024) — Today, the Michigan Senate passed Senate Bills 165–167, sponsored by Sens. John Cherry (D-Flint), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City) and Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.) This legislation would allow new corrections, conservation, and other state officers to become members of the Michigan State Police (MSP) hybrid retirement system and allows current officers to elect to move retirement systems.
Senate Bill 165, sponsored by Sen. Cherry, would expand eligibility for the State Police Retirement System (SPRS) Pension Plus plan to corrections officers, conservation officers, motor carrier officers, and other state employees who take on challenging and dangerous work on behalf of the state of Michigan.
“The dedication and hard work of our law enforcement and public safety professionals are unparalleled, allowing Michiganders to live each day in safety and with peace of mind,” said Sen. Cherry. “This legislation ensures they receive the benefits they’ve earned and can retire with dignity and financial security. They’ve had our backs since day one — now it’s our turn to have theirs.”
Led by Sen. McDonald Rivet, Senate Bill 166 would allow certain existing employees, such as corrections and conservation officers, to switch from their current state employees retirement system to the State Police retirement plan.
“Expanding access to the State Police retirement plan gives these public servants a fair and sustainable path toward retirement,” said Sen. McDonald Rivet. “This is about ensuring that the men and women who protect us every day can retire with the dignity and stability they deserve.”
Senate Bill 167, sponsored by Sen. Shink, outlines the timeline and process in which participating members could initiate the purchase of service credits, if they choose to do so.
“Our corrections and conservation officers play an essential role in keeping Michigan safe,” said Sen. Shink. “This legislation gives these dedicated public servants more control over their retirement options, allowing them to plan for a secure future. They’ve earned these benefits through their dedication to keeping both Michiganders and our environment safe and deserve a retirement plan that honors their commitment.”
By allowing more law enforcement and public safety professionals to access better pension benefits, Senate Democrats are working to protect those who protect Michigan. This legislation now advances to the House for consideration.
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