County Employees Retirement Law of 1937 (CERL)vcportal.ventura.org/VCERA/docs/publications/2014_County_Employe… · Title 3, Division 4, Part 3, Chapter 3 and 3.9 Excerpts from Sections

2014EDITION COUNTY EMPLOYEES

RETIREMENT LAW OF 1937

GOVERNMENTCODE Title3,Division4,Part3,Chapter3and3.9

ExcerptsfromSections31450-31899.10

The2014editionoftheCountyEmployeesRetirementLawof1937(CERL)containsalladditionsandamendmentsmadebythelegislaturein2013.Addedand/oramendedsectionsareidentifiedbyaverticallinealongtheoutsidemarginonaffectedpages.

• LegislativeUpdates• TableofContents• Index• AllCERLsectionslistedbyarticle

E

Article/Section Added/Amended Bill Effective Date Page

Article 1 General

31452 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 1

31452.5 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 1

31452.6 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 2

31454 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 4

31455 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 5

31461.6 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 14

31462 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 14

31462.05 Added AB1380 01/01/14 14

31462.1 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 15

31462.2 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 15

31479.1 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 28

31482.5 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 30

Article 1.5 Alternative Plan for Counties with Populations in Excess of Six Million (Los Angeles)

31490.6 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 55

31494.1 Amended SB13 01/01/14 63

Article 1.8 Alternative Optional, Integrated, Noncontributory Plan for Counties of the 20th Class

31499.11 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 84

Article 3 Retirement Board

31527 Amended SB215 01/01/14 112

2014EditionCounty Employees Retirement Law Legislative Updates

Legislation enacted in 2013 added or amended the following sections of the County Employees Retirement Law of 1937. These additions and amendments became effective as indicated.

G


Article 4 Membership

31551 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 120

31552.4 Added AB1008 09/13/13 121

Article 5 Financial Provisions

31581.1 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 129

31581.2 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 129

Article 6 Members’ Contributions

31620.5 Added AB1380 01/01/14 143

31625.2 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 148

31625.3 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 148

31630 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 151

Article 6.8 Safety Members’ Contributions

31639.85 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 155

Article 7 Service

31658 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 179

Article 7.5 Retirement of Safety Members for Service

31662.2 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 180

31663.25 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 182

31663.26 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 183

31664.5 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 189

Article 8 Retirement for Service

31670 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 190

31671 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 190

31672 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 190

31672.1 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 191

H


31672.2 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 191

31672.3 Added AB1380 01/01/14 191

31678.2 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 215

31678.3 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 215

31678.31 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 216

31680 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 219

31680.1 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 220

31680.2 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 220

31680.3 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 220

31680.6 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 222

Article 8.4 Community Property

31685.01 Added AB1380 01/01/14 232

Article 9 Deferred Retirement

31705 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 250

Article 13 Integration with Old Age and Survivors Insurance

31800 Amended SB13 10/04/13 311

31808 Amended SB13 10/04/13 315

31812 Amended SB13 10/04/13 320

Article 15 Reciprocal Benefits

31835 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 327

31836 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 329

31839 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 331

Article 16.5 Cost-of-Living Adjustment

31873 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 345

31873.1 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 345

31874.5 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 349

I


Chapter 3.9 Internal Revenue Code County Compliance and Replacement Benefits Program

31899 Amended AB1380 01/01/14 356

J

2014Edition TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part 3 of Division 4 of Title 3 Chapter 3. County Employees Retirement Law of 1937

Article Page

1. General.Secs.31450-31485.18............................................................... 1 1.4 AlternativePlanforCountiesofthe16thClass(SantaBarbara). Secs.31486-31486.12............................................................................. 45 1.5 AlternativePlanforCountieswithPopulationsinExcess ofSixMillion(LosAngeles).Secs.31487-31495.6............................ 52 1.6 AlternativePlanforCountiesofthe10thClass(SanMateo). Secs.31496-31498.7............................................................................... 72 1.7 AlternativePlanforCountiesofthe25thClass(Merced). Secs.31499-31499.9............................................................................... 78 1.8 AlternativeOptional,Integrated,NoncontributoryPlanfor Countiesofthe20thClass.Secs.31499.10-31499.19........................ 83 2. EstablishmentofSystem.Secs.31500-31509.................................... 90 2.1 AdditionalPlanforCountiesoftheFirstClass(LosAngeles). Secs.31510-31510.4............................................................................... 91 2.6 AlternativePlanforCountiesofthe13thClass(Ventura). Secs.31511-31511.11............................................................................. 94 2.7 GeneralLimitations.Secs.31515-31517.......................................... 100 3. RetirementBoard.Secs.31520-31543.............................................. 102 4. Membership.Secs.31550-31567....................................................... 120 5. FinancialProvisions.Secs.31580-31607.......................................... 128 5.5 AlternativeFinancialProvisions.Secs.31610-31619..................... 140 6. Members’Contributions.Secs.31620-31631.5............................... 143 6.8 SafetyMembers’Contributions.Secs.31639-31639.95................. 152 7. Service.Secs.31640-31658................................................................. 157 7.5 RetirementofSafetyMembersforService. Secs.31662-31664.65........................................................................... 180 8. RetirementforService.Secs.31670-31683...................................... 190 8.4 CommunityProperty.Secs.31685-31685.96................................... 232 8.5 GroupInsurance.Secs.31691-31693................................................ 235 8.6 PostemploymentBenefits.Secs.31694-31694.5............................. 237 8.7 ExtensionofSafetyMemberProvisions. Secs.31695.1-31695.3.......................................................................... 241 8.8 Long-TermCareGroupInsurance. Secs.31696.1-31696.5.......................................................................... 242 8.9 VisionCare.Secs.31698-31698.4...................................................... 243 8.10 PostemploymentHealthBenefits:SanBernardino CountyAlternativeFund.Secs.31699.1-31699.10......................... 244 8.11 DentalCare.Secs.31699.20-31699.25............................................... 247 9. DeferredRetirement.Secs.31700-31706......................................... 248 10. DisabilityRetirement.Secs.31720-31755.3..................................... 250

i

Creamr

Linked TOC

11. OptionalRetirementAllowances.Secs.31760-31768.................... 276 11.5 DeferredRetirementOptionProgram.Secs.31770-31779.3........ 286 12. DeathBenefit.Secs.31780-31792...................................................... 297 13. IntegrationwithOldAgeandSurvivorsInsurance. Secs.31800-31817................................................................................ 311 14. Subrogation.Secs.31820-31823........................................................ 322 15. ReciprocalBenefits.Secs.31830-31840.8......................................... 323 15.5 Survivors’Allowances.Secs.31841-31852....................................... 334 15.6 Survivors’Allowances.Secs.31855-31855.12.................................. 337 16. AlternateSurvivors’Allowances. Secs.31861-31869................................................................................ 340 16.5 Cost-of-LivingAdjustment.Secs.31870-31874.6........................... 342 16.6 RetrospectiveCost-of-LivingAdjustment. Secs.31875-31879.2............................................................................. 350 17. IntegrationwithFederalOldAge,Survivors,and DisabilityInsurance.Secs.31880-31894.......................................... 352 17.5 TerminationofSocialSecurityinCountieswithaPopulation Exceeding6,000,000.Secs.31894.1-31894.3.................................... 354 18. AdjustmenttoFitOtherAllowances. Secs.31895-31898................................................................................ 355

Chapter 3.9. Internal Revenue Code County Compliance and Replacement Benefits Program

Secs.31899-31899.10........................................................................... 356

ii

2014EditionCounty Employees Retirement Law Legislative Updates

INDEX

AAbsence,leaveof Doesnotbreakcontinuityofservice.................................................................................. 31642Act,1937,adoptionofprovisions Ingeneral................................................................................................................... 31500–31502Actuarialassumptions............................................................................................................. 31454.1Actuarialequivalent.................................................................................................... 31456,31760.5Actuarialimpact.......................................................................................................................... 31516Actuarialvaluation..........................................................................................................31453,31611Additionalcontributions.................................................................. 31465,31627,31639.7,31639.8Additionalplan*........................................................................................................... 31510–31510.4AdditionalRetirementCredit(ARC)....................................................... 31486.35,31490.6,31658Adjustmenttofitotherallowances.............................................................................. 31895–31898Administrationofsystem Boardmaycontractwiththirdparty.............................................................................. 31522.6Administrationofsystem,costof County,paymentby............................................................................................................. 31580 District,paymentby.......................................................................................................... 31580.1 Retirement fund, payment from....................................................................... 31580.2,31580.3Administrator,boardmayappoint.......................................................... 31522.2,31522.5,31522.7Affidavits(seeSwornstatements)Ageofmember Determinationbyboard....................................................................................................... 31531 Entry after deferred retirement......................................................................... 31831.1,31831.2 Estimate of............................................................................................................................. 31531 Swornstatementofmember............................................................................................... 31526 Underreciprocalbenefits...................................................................................... 31833,31833.1AlamedaCounty ApplicationofSection31835.......................................................................................... 31835.02 Authoritytoprovidedifferentretirementbenefits—safety.......................................31485.11 Eligibilityforretirementbenefits..................................................................................... 31552.4 Terminationofcertainadditionalbenefits..................................................................... 31484.8Alcoholicliquor,denialofpensionbecauseofuseof............................................................ 31728Allowance(seeCalculationofretirementallowances)Allowanceincreases(seeIncreasesofretirementallowances)Alternatemember.................................................................................................................... 31520.1Alternateretiredmember....................................................................................................... 31520.5Alternativeplans*..........................................................................31486–31499.19,31511–31511.11Amendments,existingrightsnotabrogatedby..................................................................... 31481Annualbudget(seeBudget)Annualfinancialstatement............................................................................................ 31597–31598Annuity Amountof.............................................................................................................................. 31674

*ProvisionsofthisplanarenotreferencedintheIndex.

iii

Certificates............................................................................................................................. 31526 Defined................................................................................................................................... 31457Applicationfor Disabilityretirement................................................................................................. 31721,31722 Serviceretirement Electiveofficers............................................................................................................ 31672.2 Generalmembers............................................................................................. 31672,31672.1 Safetymembers......................................................................................... 31663.25,31663.26Appropriations Additionalbecauseofuseoffixedformula Bycounty...................................................................................................................... 31454.5 Bydistrict...................................................................................................................... 31454.6 Additionaltomeetrequirementsofsupersededsystem................................................ 31507 Adjustmentaccordingtoactuarialvaluation....................................................... 31453, 31454 Applicationof........................................................................................................................ 31587 Auditor’stransferfrom......................................................................................... 31582,31582.1 CountyBoardofSupervisors.......................................................... 31556,31580,31581,31584 County school service fund.............................................................................................. 31585.1 Courts ..................................................................................................................................... 31556 Districts.................................................................................................... 31564.5,31585,31627.6 Obligationofcountyordistrict.......................................................................................... 31586 Supersededsystem............................................................................................................... 31507Assets AdministrationbyBoardofRetirement............................................................................ 31508 Deferredyieldadjustmentaccount................................................................................. 31588.1 Maybepledgedassecurityforloanrepayment.............................................................. 31603 Supersededsystem....................................................................................... 31505,31507,31508 Surplus(seeExcessinterest/earnings)Assignment/attachment(seeExecution)Assistantadministrators........................................................................... 31522.3–31522.5,31522.7Assumptionbycounty(seeTransfers)Attorneyforboard(seealsoBoardofRetirement,Advisedby)........................... 31529,31529.9Attorneysinprivatepractice(seeBoardofRetirement,Advisedby)Attorney’sfees,reversalbySuperiorCourt............................................................................ 31536Auditor Accountingoftransfersorpayments................................................................................. 31589 Annualaudit.......................................................................................................................... 31593 Certificationofcompensationearnable.............................................................. 31582,31582.1 Shalltransferfundsifsupervisorsdonotmakeappropriations................................... 31584 Trustfundaccount,shallopenonbooks........................................................................... 31588

BBankruptcy(seealsoExecution)............................................................................................... 31452Beneficiary Cannotbefound................................................................................................................... 31783 Ex-spousemaydesignate.................................................................................. 31458.3,31458.4 Failure to designate........................................................................................................... 31458.2 Minorchildren.................................................................................................................... 31760.1 Paymentto......................................................................................................... 31486.36,31490.7 Payrolldeductions............................................................................................................. 31452.5

iv

Revocation of designation................................................................................................... 31782Benefitincreasesordifferentretirementbenefits..... 31485.9–31485.12,31515.5,31516,31592.5Benefitlimits.................................................................................................................... 31515, 31517Benefitnotificationtoorganizationofretiredcountyor district employees.............................................................................................................. 31520.5Benefitnotificationtospouse................................................................................................. 31760.3Benefits(see“Burialexpenses”;Deathbenefit;Disabilityretirement;Serviceretirement; Survivorshipbenefits)Blood-borneinfectiousdisease.............................................................................................. 31720.7BoardofInvestments Appointmentofmembersto............................................................................................ 31520.2 Contract with third party.................................................................................................. 31522.6 Control of investments.......................................................................................... 31595,31595.1 Definitionof............................................................................................................ 31459,31459.1 Dutiesofelectedmembers.................................................................................................. 31522 Education............................................................................................................................ 31522.8 Electionofmembersto...................................................................................................... 31520.2 Establishmentof................................................................................................................. 31520.2 Loan,mayobtain.................................................................................................................. 31603 MarketingofInvestmentProducts..................................................................................... 31528 Personnel,appointmentof................................................................................ 31522.1,31522.2 Saleofsecurities.................................................................................................................... 31596 Unanimousvoterequiredonrealproperty................................................................... 31601.1 Vacancy................................................................................................................................ 31523.1BoardofRetirement Ingeneral................................................................................................................... 31520–31538 Accountingoftransactions.................................................................................................. 31589 Administration,partofofficialduties............................................................................... 31522 Administrationofassets...................................................................................................... 31508 Advisedby Attorneysinprivatepractice....................................... 31529.1,31529.5,31529.6,31529.9, ............................................................................................................. 31607,31614,31732 County counsel............................................................................................................... 31529 Districtattorney.............................................................................................................. 31529 Healthofficer................................................................................................................... 31530 Alternatemember............................................................................................. 31520.1,31520.12 Alternateretiredmember................................................................................................. 31520.5 Annualfinancialstatement.................................................................................. 31597,31597.1 Appointmentofmembersto.....................................31520–31520.11,31520.3,31520.5,31523 Attorney,attorneyfees................................................................................. 31536,31607,31732 Auditandreport................................................................................................................... 31593 Compensationofmembers.................................................................................. 31521–31521.3 Contract with third party.................................................................................................. 31522.6 Correct any calculation error............................................................................................... 31539 Determinationofassetsnecessarytosupersededsystems............................................. 31507 Disabilitydeterminedbyboard.......................................................................................... 31725 Dutiesofelectedmembers.................................................................................................. 31522 Education............................................................................................................................ 31522.8 Electionofmembersto............................................... 31520,31520.1,31520.3,31520.5,31523 Hearings..................................................................................................................... 31533, 31534 Incompatibleinterestofmembers...................................................................................... 31528

v

Investigatoryservicefor...................................................................................................... 31732 Investmentauthority............................................................................................. 31594–31595.1 Loan,mayobtain.................................................................................................................. 31603 Managementofsystem........................................................................................................ 31520 MarketingofInvestmentProducts..................................................................................... 31528 Medicaladvice.......................................................................................................... 31530,31732 Oaths,membersmayadminister........................................................................................ 31535 Personnel,appointmentof................................................................................ 31522.1–31522.3 Providenotificationtoorganizationrebenefitchanges............................................... 31592.5 Recordsofcontributions...................................................................................................... 31599 Referee,appointmentandhearingby................................................................... 31533, 31534 Refundofcontributions........................................................................................... 31628,31629 Regulationsby,adoptionof..................................................................................... 31525–31527 Retiredmemberasmemberofboard,compensationof................................................. 31680 Retired(retiree)organization,qualified......................................................................... 31520.5 Separationfromservicevacatesoffice............................................................................... 31524 Subpoenas............................................................................................................... 31535,31535.1 Vacancy....................................................................................................................... 31523,31524 Workers’compensation..................................................................................................... 31520.4BoardofSupervisors Adoptionofsystemby......................................................................................................... 31501 Agreementtopaymembercontributions....................................................... 31581.1,31581.2 Appropriations.......................................................................................................... 31556,31588 Approvalofpermissivemeasuresrequiring Increaseinallowance........................................................ 31681.2,31681.4,31739,31739.2 Publicservice.............................................................................................................. 31641.95 Approvalofregulations....................................................................................................... 31525 BoardofRetirement Appointmentofmembers............................................................................................. 31520 Compensationofmembers............................................................................ 31521–31521.3 Establishmentofsystem...................................................................................................... 31500 IntegrationwithOld-AgeandSurvivors’Insurance........................................... 31800–31814 Interest,adjustmentofratesby........................................................................................... 31454 Ordinanceadoptingsystem................................................................................................ 31500 Publicservice,adoptionof............................................................................................. 31641.95 Terminationofbenefits........................................................................................................ 31483Bondtrades............................................................................................................................... 31589.1Bonusesforsystememployees.............................................................................................. 31482.5Budget AppropriationbyBoardofSupervisors............................................................................ 31580 Charged against earnings of retirement fund................................................. 31580.2,31580.3“Burialexpenses” Afterretirement.......................................................................................... 31783,31789–31789.2 Beforeretirement................................................................................................................... 31790Bylaws(seeRegulations)

CCalculation of retirement allowances

vi

Annualcompensationlimit................................................................................................. 31671 Combinedmiscellaneousandsafetymemberallowance.......................................... 31664.65 Disabilityretirementallowance,nonservice-connected Generalandsafetymembers......................................................................... 31726,31727.7 Generalmembers.............................................................................. 31727–31727.1,31727.3 Safetymembers............................................................................................. 31726.5,31727.2 Disabilityretirementallowance,service-connected Generalandsafetymembers....................................................... 31727.4,31727.5,31727.6 IntegrationwithSocialSecurity.............................................................................. 31800–31817 Serviceretirementallowance Generalmembers............................................... 31676.01–31676.19,31678–31678.2,31752 Safetymembers................................................................................. 31664,31664.1,31664.2CaliforniaPublicEmployees'PensionReformActof2013.............................. 31462.05,31552.4, .................................................................................................. 31620.5,31672.3,31685.01Cancellationofdisabilitypension............................................................................................ 31730Cancer, presumption of........................................................................................................... 31720.6Changes of position Safetytogeneral.................................................................................................................... 31560 Statetocountyservice(seeTransfers)Chiefdeputylegalofficers....................................................................................... 31522.4,31522.5Chiefinvestmentofficer............................................................................ 31522.3–31522.5,31522.7Chieflegalofficers..................................................................................................... 31522.4,31522.5Childeligibletoreceiveasurvivorbenefit........................................................................... 31780.1Child support investigators and administrators............................................................... 31470.12Children’spensions(seeSurvivorshipbenefits)Commissioners SuperiorCourt....................................................................................................................... 31554Community property................................................................................. 31458.3,31685–31685.96Compensation Auditofcountyordistrict................................................................................................... 31543 Auditor’scertificationof....................................................................................... 31582,31582.1 Boardmembers...................................................................................................... 31521,31521.1 Defined................................................................................................................................... 31460 Limit ..................................................................................................................................... 31671 Paidtoenhancemember'sretirementbenefit.................................................................. 31542 Reporting of........................................................................................................................ 31542.5Compensationearnable Asmemberinreciprocalsystem......................................................... 31461.3,31835,31835.01 Deathbenefit,infiguring..................................................................................................... 31781 Defined..................................................................... 31461–31461.2,31461.4,31461.45,31461.6Compulsoryretirement(seeMandatoryretirement)Confidential,swornstatementsandrecordsare.................................................................... 31532Constables Peaceofficer........................................................................................................................ 31469.1 Safetymember....................................................................................................................... 31470 Transfer, district withdrawing from system..................................................................... 31564Consumers’PriceIndex.................................................... 31870–31870.3,31874.1,31874.3,31877Continuity of service.................................................................................................................. 31642Contra Costa County

vii

Additionalbenefits............................................................................................................... 31683 Alternativetermsofoffice...............................................................................................31520.11 BargainingUnitsofSafety................................................................................................ 31484.9 BoardofRetirement,AlternateMembers..................................................................... 31520.12 “Burialexpenses”............................................................................................................. 31789.01 Combinedbenefit............................................................................................................. 31781.31 Continuance of allowance...............................................................................................31760.11 Contributionsandbenefits.............................................................................. 31639.9,31639.95 Cost-of-Living Contributions............................................................................................................... 31873.1 Increase.......................................................................................................................... 31870.3 Deathbenefit..................................................................................................................... 31781.01 Deathbenefitifreciprocal............................................................................................... 31840.01 Deferredretirementallowance........................................................................................... 31703 Disabilityretirementeligibilityunderreciprocity........................................................ 31837.1 Disabilityretirementpension......................................................................................... 31727.01 InapplicabilityofArticle13................................................................................................. 31817 Normalratesofcontribution............................................................................................ 31621.7 Paymentofcontributions.................................................................................................... 31630 Permanentincapacity........................................................................................................ 31720.1 Post-retirementservice...................................................................................................... 31680.3 Retirement allowance........................................................................................................... 31752 Sickleavecredit................................................................................................................ 31641.01 Spousalelectionofretirementallowance......................................................................31765.11 Tier two................................................................................................................................... 31751 Tier three................................................................................................................. 31755–31755.3 Willful misconduct............................................................................................................ 31728.1Contractors,noteligibleformembership................................................................................ 31561Contracts for legal services....................................................................................................... 1529.5Contributions Countyordistrictby Additionalbecauseoffixedformula......................................................... 31454.5,31454.6 Adjustmentof...................................................................................................... 31454,31540 Applicationof................................................................................................................. 31587 Normal.......................................................................................................................... 31453.5 Payments,monthlyoradvance.................................................................................... 31582 Rate of............................................................................................................................... 31581 IntegrationwithSocialSecurity.............................................................................. 31800–31817 Intereston.............................................................................................................................. 31591 Membersby Additional Fixed formula......................................................................................................... 31676.6 Makingof....................................................................................................... 31627,31631 Refund of................................................................................................. 31627.1,31627.2 Adjustmentofrates........................................................................................................ 31454 Deductionfromwarrants............................................................................... 31625,31625.1 End at thirty years.......................................................... 31625.2,31625.3,31836.1,31836.2 Militaryservice,forthosein................................................ 31641.97,31649–31651,31653 Normal

viii

Generalmembers......................................................................................... 31620–31630 Safetymembers........................................................... 31620.5,31639–31639.9,31664.4 Partofsalariesandwages,are...................................................................................... 31626 Paymentbycounty........................................... 31581.1,31581.2,31630,31639.85,31639.9 Paymentofemployer’scontributions...................................................................... 31639.9 Priorservice,for........................................................................... 31641.5,31641.56,31641.8 Publicservice,for........................................................................... 31641,31641.9,31641.96 Rates Actuarialvaluationasbasisfor.............................................................................. 31453 Adjustmentof................................................................................ 31454,31631,31631.5 Basedonnearestageatentry.................................................................. 31620,31639.1 Basedonnoticeofredeposit................................................................................ 31831.3 Basisofcomputation(miscellaneous)....................................................... 31621–31623 Basisofcomputation(safety).................................................. 31639,31639.25–31639.5 Onre-entryintoserviceonterminationofdisability.......................................... 31733 Singlerateforallmembers................................................................31621.11,31639.26 Recordsofcontributions................................................................................................ 31599 Redeposit of........................................................................ 31652,31652.1,31831.1–31831.3 Refund of Boardmaywithhold................................................................................................ 31628 Escheat on failure to apply for................................................................................ 31629 Oncancellationofdeferredstatus......................................................................... 31701 Oncancellationofdisabilityallowance................................................................ 31737 Ondeath............................................................ 31486.36,31490.7,31628,31702,31781 Ontransferofmembershipto StateTeachers’RetirementSystem.................................................................. 31565 Onwithdrawalfromsystembydistrict................................................................ 31564 Specialcontributionstosupersededsystem........................................................ 31509 Withdrawal charge....................................................................................... 31527,31628 Right to leave on deposit............................................................................................ 31629.5Cost-of-LivingAdjustment Additional............................................................................................. 31681.8,31739.5,31874.5 Prospective............................................................................................................... 31870-31874.4 Retrospective.......................................................................................................... 31875,31879.2Counselor,safetymember...................................................................................................... 31469.4County advance reserves............................................................................................ 31588,31592.2Countycounseladvisesboard.................................................................................................. 31529County Employees Retirement Law............................................................................ 31450,31451Countyhealthofficeradvisesboard........................................................................................ 31530County school service fund, employee paid from................................... 31469,31565.5,31585.1Countyservicepriortomembership,creditfor.................................................................. 31641.5 Notamemberduringsuchservice................................................................................. 31470.7CountySupervisors’AssociationofCalifornia Adoptionofsystem.............................................................................................................. 31502 Compensation of employees............................................................................................... 31460 Eligibleformembership.......................................................................................... 31468,31469Courtattachés(seeJustice,Municipal,andSuperiorCourts)Courtserviceofficers............................................................................................................... 31470.2Current service pension............................................................................................................. 31675

ix

CreditUnions,deductionsfor................................................................................................ 31452.5

DDeathbenefit(seealsoSurvivorshipbenefits) Ingeneral................................................................................................................... 31780–31792 Basicdeathbenefit................................................................................................................ 31781 Beneficiary Cannotbefound............................................................................................................. 31783 Revocation of designation............................................................................................. 31782 “Burialexpenses”................................................................................................... 31789–31789.5 Calculationof(seeSurvivorshipbenefits) Combinedbenefit.............................................................................................. 31781.3,31781.31 Deferred............................................................................................................................... 31781.2 Domesticpartners.............................................................................................................. 31780.2 Funeral expenses................................................................................................................... 31783 Installmentpayments........................................................................................................... 31784 Liabilityfor............................................................................................................................ 31780 Optionaldeathallowance....................................................31781.1,31781.11,31787,31787.65 Specialdeathbenefit........................................................................................... 31787.5,31787.6Deductions(seeContributions) Retirement warrants, from............................................................................................... 31452.5Deferredcompensationplan...................................................................................... 31482,31482.5Deferredretirement Ingeneral....................................................................................................... 31700–31706,31831 Agerequirements.................................................................................................................. 31706 Allowance.............................................................................................................................. 31703 Calculationofbenefit........................................................................................................... 31705 Contributions Intereston............................................................................................................ 31591,31700 Refund in case of death.................................................................................................. 31702 Withdrawal of..................................................................................................... 31701,31831 Credit for service while on deferred status.................................................................. 31641.56 Deemedtohaveelected........................................................................................... 31700,31706 Electionofoption2,3,or4.................................................................................................. 31704 Electiontotake....................................................................................................... 31700,31831.1 Eligibilityfor,afterredepositofcontributions............................................... 31831.1,31831.2 Failure to apply......................................................................................................... 31700,31706 PublicEmployees’RetirementSystem................................................... 31700,31701,31831.1 Rescission of election............................................................................................................ 31701 Shallcommencepayingallowance.................................................................................... 31706 Toacceptjudicialappointment........................................................................................ 31700.5DeferredRetirementOptionProgram(DROP)*...................................................... 31770–31779.3Deficit Additionalappropriation................................................................................................. 31454.5Definedcontributionplans..................................................................................................... 31485.5Definitions Ingeneral............................................................................................................................... 31455 Actuarialequivalent............................................................................................................. 31456 Actuarialrate......................................................................................................................... 31612*ProvisionsofthisplanarenotreferencedintheIndex.

x

Actuary................................................................................................................................... 31516 Annuity.................................................................................................................................. 31457 Beneficiary.............................................................................................................................. 31458 Board .......................................................................................................... 31459,31459.1,31882 Child .................................................................................................................................. 31855.3 Compensation....................................................................................................................... 31460 Earnable............................................................................................................ 31461–31461.2 Final.................................................................................................... 31462,31462.1,31462.2 Firstearnable................................................................................................................ 31641.3 Contributions Accumulated................................................................................................................... 31467 Accumulatedadditional................................................................................................ 31466 Accumulatednormal..................................................................................................... 31464 Additional........................................................................................................................ 31465 Normal............................................................................................................................. 31463 County service....................................................................................................................... 31640 Current service pension....................................................................................................... 31675 District.................................................................................................................................... 31468 Employee............................................................................................................................... 31469 Employees retirement fund................................................................................................. 31588 Federal agency....................................................................................................................... 31802 Federal system....................................................................................................................... 31803 Federal-stateagreement....................................................................................................... 31883 Fireman................................................................................................................................... 31887 Interestatthecurrentrate.............................................................................................. 31641.51 Member................................................................................................................... 31470,31470.1 Parent.................................................................................................................................. 31855.4 Peaceofficer,county........................................................................................... 31469.1,31470.1 Pension................................................................................................................................... 31471 Pensionboard........................................................................................................................ 31884 Policeman............................................................................................................................... 31886 Priorservice........................................................................................................................... 31643 Priorservicepension............................................................................................................ 31676 Prosecutors,local................................................................ 31469.2,31470.14,31787.5,31787.6 Publicagency............................................................................................................. 31478,31895 PublicDefenders,local....................................................... 31469.2,31470.14,31787.5,31787.6 PublicDefenderInvestigators,local................................ 31469.2,31470.14,31787.5,31787.6 Publicservice.......................................................................................................... 31479–31479.3 Regular interest..................................................................................... 31472,31472.1,31641.21 Retirement allowance........................................................................................................... 31473 Retirement association......................................................................................................... 31474 Retirement fund.................................................................................................................... 31475 Retirement system.................................................................................................... 31476,31885 Safetymember..................................................................................................... 31469.3,31469.4 Salaryfund............................................................................................................................. 31477 Service...................................................................................................................... 31641,31836.1 Service,creditforlessthanfulltime............................................................................... 31640.5 Serviceretirementannuity.................................................................................................. 31674 Totalbenefits....................................................................................................................... 31895.5 Treasurer.............................................................................................................................. 31485.6

xi

Unmarriedchild................................................................................................................. 31780.1DentalCare............................................................................................................ 31699.20–31699.25Directdeposit(seeElectronicfundtransfer)Disabilityretirement Generalmembers Ingeneral............................................................................................................. 31720–31755 Actionbyboard.................................................................................................. 31723–31725 Alcoholicliquorordrugs,useof...................................................................... 31726,31728 Applicationfor.................................................................................................... 31721,31722 Cancellation of........................................................................................ 31730,31731,31737 Conviction of felony.................................................................................................... 31728.2 Determinationfor............................................................................................... 31723,31725 Effective date................................................................................................................... 31724 Eligibility........................................................................................................... 31720,31720.1 Increaseinallowancesafterretirement............................. 31727.6,31738,31739–31739.4 Judicialreview................................................................................................................ 31725 Medicaladviceindeterminationof,byboard............................................ 31720.3,31732 Medicalexamination Afterretirement........................................................................................................ 31729 Beforeretirement.......................................................................................... 31723,31724 Refusaltosubmitto................................................................................................. 31731 Minimumallowance..................................................................................... 31727,31727.01 Misconduct,willful......................................................................................... 31728,31728.1 Nonservice-connected............................ 31725.8,31726,31727–31727.1,31727.3,31727.7 Permanentincapacity.......................................................................... 31720,31720.1,31725 Proofofdisability............................................................................................... 31723–31725 Reassignment instead of retirement.......................................................... 31725.5,31725.6 Reentrance into service...................................................................................... 31730,31733 Refundofcontributionsoncancellation..................................................................... 31737 Retirement allowance Payablemonthly....................................................................................................... 31600 Pro-ratedforportionofmonth............................................................................... 31600 Service-connected......................................................................................... 31727.4–31727.6 Supplementaryallowance............................................................................................. 31740 Termination..................................................................................................................... 31730 Transfer instead of retirement.................................................................................... 31725.5 Safetymembers (NOTE:Exceptasfollows,provisionsforsafetymembersarethesameasforgeneral members.) Alcoholicliquorordrugs,useof................................................................... 31726.5,31728 Amountof....................................................................................... 31726.5,31727.2,31727.4 Calculation of............................................................................................................... 31727.2 Hearttrouble,presumptionof................................................................................... 31720.5 Nonservice-connected.................................................................................. 31726.5,31727.2 Retroactivediabilitypayments.................................................................................. 31897.6 Service-connected......................................................................................... 31727.4–31727.6Disabled,memberreassignment............................................................................................ 31725.5Disclosureofcontentsofswornstatement.............................................................................. 31532Dismissal,continuityofservice................................................................................................ 31642

xii

Distributions.......................................................................................................... 31485.14,31485.15District Additionalappropriations................................................................................................ 31564.5 Appropriationsby.................................................................................. 31585,31627.6,31648.3 CountySupervisors’AssociationofCaliforniais............................................................. 31468 Liabilityuponterminationofparticipation................................................................... 31564.2 Membershipofemployeesof............................................................................... 31557,31557.2 Transfersby............................................................................................................................ 31585 Withdrawn from system........................................................................... 31557,31557.1,31564Districtattorneyadvisesboard................................................................................................. 31529Domesticpartners.................................................................................................................... 31780.2Drugs,denialofpensionbecauseofuseof............................................................................. 31728

EElectionofboardmembersandofficers....................................................... 31520,31520.1,31526Electiveofficers Compulsory retirement..................................................................................................... 31662.8 Credit for fractional part of month.................................................................................. 31648.6 Election after retirement...................................................................................................... 31680 Electiontobecomemember.................................................................................... 31553,31562 Forfeiture of position............................................................................................................ 31563 PurchaseofServiceCredit................................................................................................ 31640.7 Servicepriortomembership,creditfor.......................................................................... 31648.5 Withdrawalfrommembership........................................................................................... 31553Electronic fund transfer............................................................................................... 31452.6,31590Eligibility(seeMembership)Employees,appointmentbytheboard.................................................................. 31522.1–31522.3Employees paid from county school service fund................................... 31469,31565.5,31585.1Employees retirement fund....................................................................................................... 31588Employment Retirement, after Electionofficer,as........................................................................................................ 31680.1 Jointagency,by.......................................................................................................... 31680.01 Judge,as,whentemporarilyassigned...................................................................... 31680.1 Juror,as.......................................................................................................................... 31680.1 Member,BoardofInvestments,as............................................................................... 31680 Member,BoardofRetirement,as................................................................................. 31680 Permanentemployment............................................................... 31680.4,31680.5,31680.7 Rewards for ideas or suggestions................................................................................. 31680 Safety,for....................................................................................................... 31680.8,31680.9 Temporaryemploymentrequiringspecialskillsorknowledge........................................ .................................................................................................... 31680.2,31680.3,31680.6 UnemploymentInsuranceCompensation................................. 31680.2,31680.3,31680.6Errors and omissions Correction.................................................................................................................. 31540,31541Establishmentofsystem..................................................................................... 31500,31501,31550Estate,benefitpayableto............................................................................................... 31780,31790Excess interest/earnings................................................................................. 31588,31592–31592.4Exclusionfrommembership(seeMembership)

xiii

Execution,retirementallowances,etc.,notsubjectto........................................................... 31452Executiveandunclassifiedoperationalincentiveplan...................................................... 31461.5Expenses of administration......................................................................... 31580–31580.3,31588.2Expenses of investing monies................................................................................................ 31596.1Ex-spouse,paymentsto........................................................................................... 31458.3,31458.4

FFederal law or regulations, reference to................................................................................... 31804Federal pensions.............................................................................................................. 31895–31898Felonyconviction,denialofdisabilitypaymentsbecauseof............................................ 31728.2Final compensation.......................................................................................... 31462–31462.3,31835Financial provisions Ingeneral................................................................................................................... 31580–31607 Alternative................................................................................................................. 31610–31619 Annualstatementandformof................................................................................ 31597–31598 Excess interest Reservesagainstfuturedeficiencies,etc..................................................................... 31592 Investments “Prudentman”rule............................................................................................ 31594, 31595 Real estate......................................................................................................... 31601.1,31607 Securities....................................................................................................................... 31595.1 Saleof......................................................................................................................... 31596 Loans ..................................................................................................................................... 31603 Warrants,makingof............................................................................................................. 31590Firefighters(seeSafetymembers)Firewardens(seeSafetymembers)Foresters(seeSafetymembers)Forfeitureofbenefits.............................................................................................................. 31485.13Formersystem(seeSupersededsystem)Fraud ......................................................................................................................................... 31455.5Functionsofotherpublicagencies Assumedbycounty(seeTransfers)Funds(seealsoAssets) Annualappropriation.......................................................................................................... 31580 Attachments,bankruptcy,execution,garnishment,notliableto.................................. 31452 Booksofaccount............................................................................ 31588,31588.1,31589,31599 Borrowingfrom,prohibited................................................................................................ 31528 Employees retirement fund, created.................................................................................. 31588 Investmentof “Prudentman”rule............................................................................................ 31594, 31595 Real estate......................................................................................................... 31601.1,31607 Securities....................................................................................................................... 31595.1 Saleof......................................................................................................................... 31596 Records of............................................................................................................................... 31599 Reports to supervisors.......................................................................................... 31597,31597.1 Securities,saleortradeof...................................................................... 31588.1,31589.1,31596 Transfer of surplus to county advance reserves............................................. 31592.2,31592.3 Transferto,bysupervisors.................................................................................................. 31584 Treasurer controls............................................................................................................... 31595.1

xiv

Unassignable,are.................................................................................................................. 31452Funeral expenses, payment of................................................................................................... 31783

GGarnishment(seeExecution)Generalmembers,retirementbenefitsfor............................................................................ 31485.9“Goldenhandshake”............................................................................................ 31641.04,31641.05Groupinsurance.............................................................................................................. 31691–31693

HHarborImprovementDistrict................................................................................................ 31469.6Hazardousmaterials.............................................................................................................. 31470.13Healthinsurance(seeGroupinsurance)Healthofficeradvisesboard...................................................................................................... 31530Hearings........................................................................................................................... 31533, 31534Hearttrouble,presumptionof............................................................................................... 31720.5Homeloanprogram................................................................................................................... 31602Hospitalplan,deductionsfor................................................................................................. 31452.5

IIncapacity.................................................................................................................... 31724–31725.65Incometaxes,deductionsfor.................................................................................................. 31452.5Increasesofretirementallowances Cost-of-Living(seeCost-of-LivingAdjustment) Generalmembers............................................................................... 31676.95–31676.97,31679, ............................................................................ 31681–31681.7,31691.1,31739–31739.4 Service-connecteddisability............................................................................................. 31727.6Inheritancetax,retirementallowance,etc.,notsubjectto.................................................... 31452Institutionsintwoormorecounties............................................................................ 31468,31502Insurance Deductionofpremiumsfromretirementwarrants...................................................... 31452.5 Groupinsurance........................................................................................................ 31691–31693 UnitedStatesgovernmentconverted............................................................................. 31452.5IntegrationwithOld-AgeandSurvivorsInsurance Ingeneral................................................................................................................... 31800–31817 Additionalcreditforpreviousservice............................................................................ 31816.1 Adoptionbygoverningbody............................................................................................. 31800 Agreement.............................................................................................................................. 31893 Beneficiary’sallowance.........................................................................................................31811 Compulsory retirement........................................................................................................ 31806 Conversion.......................................................................................................................... 31800.5 Deferredretirement.............................................................................................................. 31815 Divisionofretirementsystem............................................................................................. 31888 Federal agency/system............................................................................................ 31802,31803 Federalcontributions............................................................................................... 31813,31814 Federal law............................................................................................................................. 31804 Fireman............................................................................................... 31801,31887,31891,31892 Legislative intent................................................................................................................... 31801 LosAngelesCounty................................................................... 31880–31894,31894.1–31894.3

xv

Members’contributions......................................................................... 31812,31812.1,31816.1 Policeman........................................................................................... 31801,31886,31891,31892 Policystatement.................................................................................................................... 31801 Recalculationofbenefits................................................................................................... 31805.1 Redeposit of funds withdrawn........................................................................................... 31816 Referendum........................................................................................................................... 31800 Retirement allowance Adjustmentforoneretiringunderage65.................................................................. 31810 Generalmembers............................................................... 31808–31808.2,31808.7,31808.9 Safetymembers.................................................................................................................. 31808.6 Maximum...................................................................................................................... 31805.1 Minimum......................................................................................................................... 31807 TimeduringwhichnotsubjecttoSocialSecurity................................................... 31808.2 Supplementation,changeto............................................................................................. 31800.5 Survivorshipallowance........................................................................................................31811 Termination of..................................................................................................... 31894.1–31894.3Interest Actuarialvaluationtodetermine....................................................................................... 31453 Adjustmentofrate................................................................................................................ 31454 Atthecurrentrate............................................................................................................ 31641.51 Excess,asreserveagainstdeficiency.................................................................................. 31592 Excess, disposition............................................................................................................. 31592.2 Regular Creditedsemi-annually..................................................................................... 31591,31700 Defined.............................................................................................................. 31472,31472.1 Rate of............................................................................................................................... 31591Intermittentemployees(seeTemporaryemployees)InternalRevenueCode(referencetoI.R.C.Sec.415)...................................... 31485.13–31485.15, ............................................................................. 31510–31510.4,31538,31899–31899.10Investigatoryserviceforboard................................................................................................. 31732Investments,Boardof(seeBoardofInvestments)Investmentofficers................................................................................................................... 31522.4Investmentoffunds Exchange traded call options......................................................................................... 31595.41 Expenses of......................................................................................................................... 31596.1 Bonds............................................................................................................................. 31589.1 Homeloans...................................................................................................................... 31602 Real estate........................................................................................................................ 31607 CountyBoardofEducation.................................................................................... 31595 Repurchase/reverse purchase agreements.............................................................. 31595.9 Securities....................................................................................................................... 31595.1 “Prudentman”rule..................................................................................... 31594, 31595 Stock................................................................................................................ 31595–31595.41

JJoinder.......................................................................................................................................... 31821Jointagency............................................................................................................................. 31680.01JudgesofSuperiorCourtsexcluded......................................................................................... 31554Judges’RetirementSystem,Judges’RetirementSystemII.................................... 31835,31840.8Juror,paymentto,afterretirement........................................................................................ 31680.1

xvi

JuvenileHallGroupCounselor............................................................................... 31469.4,31558.6

KKern County ApplicabilityofSection31678.......................................................................................... 31678.1 Assistantadministrators;chiefinvestmentofficers...................................................... 31522.3 Assumptionofsafetyfunctions.......................................................................................... 31657 Contract for legal services................................................................................................ 31529.9

LLayoff Doesnotbreakcontinuityofservice.................................................................................. 31642Legalservices(seeAttorneyforboard;seealsoBoardofRetirement,Advisedby)Lifeguards(seealsoSafetymembers).................................................................... 31470.6,31558.5Limitationonbenefits....................................................................... 31515,31515.5,31517,31787.5LocalAgencyFormationCommission......................................................................... 31469,31478LosAngelesCounty Actuarialequivalentofbenefits....................................................................................... 31760.5 Additionalplan(PlanF)....................................................................................... 31510–31510.4 Alternativeplan(PlanE)...................................................................................... 31487–31495.5 Assumptionofsafetyfunctions.......................................................................................... 31657 Beneficiary,ex-spousemaydesignate............................................................................. 31458.3 Board................................................................................................................................... 31459.1 Compensationearnable.................................................................... 31461.1,31461.4,31461.45 Compensationofmembers.............................................................................................. 31521.1 Cost-of-Living..................................................................................................31870.01,31870.11 District.................................................................................................................................... 31468 Final Compensation........................................................................................................... 31462.3 Increaseindeathbenefit...................................................31781.11–31781.13,31785.4,31785.5 Increaseinmaximumageofeligiblechildren/paymenttoincompetentchildren.... 31791 Insuranceenrollment......................................................................................................... 31691.2 IntegrationwithfederalOASDI............................................................................. 31880–31894 Leaving service................................................................................................................... 31831.2 Legal representation.......................................................................................................... 31529.1 Legal services of attorneys in private practice.............................................................. 31529.6 Members’contributions....................................................................................................... 31812 Optionaldeathbenefits............................................................................................ 31768,31792 Paymentafterretirement.................................................................................................. 31485.8 Redepositofcontributions............................................................................................... 31652.1 ReentryfollowingserviceunderPERS........................................................................... 31652.2 Retirement allowance........................................................................................................... 31808 Sheriff(AssistantorChief)............................................................................................... 31663.1 Subpoenas........................................................................................................................... 31535.1 SurvivorAllowances...................................... 31760.12,31760.13,31765.2,31765.3,31781.12, .................................................................................................. 31781.13,31785.4,31785.5 TerminationofSocialSecurity.......................................................................... 31894.1–31894.3Lumpsumpayment(seealsoSurvivorshipbenefits) Additionalservicecredit................................................................................................... 31641.8

xvii

Disabilitycasesinvolvingmisconduct/criminalactivity.............................................. 31728, ................................................................................................................... 31728.1,31728.2

MManagementofsystembyboard.............................................................................................. 31520Mandatoryretirement Employment after compulsory retirement age................................................................ 31706 Generalmembers............................................................................................................. 31671.05 Safetymembers.................................................................................... 31662.4–31663.2,31663.3MarinCounty Terminationofcertainadditionalbenefits..................................................................... 31484.6Marshals Compulsory retirement........................................................................................................ 31663 Marshalsandconstables Safetymembers............................................................................................. 31470.2,31470.3Medicaladviceforboard........................................................................................................... 31530Medicalexamination(seeDisabilityretirement)Membercontributions(seeContributions,member)Membership Ingeneral................................................................................................................... 31550–31567 Beginning................................................................................................................... 31527,31552 Broughtwithinfieldof......................................................................................................... 31648 ElectedPublicOfficers......................................................................................................... 31563 Eligibility Ingeneral......................................................................................................................... 31551 Changeindutiesbetweensafetyandgeneral............................................................ 31560 Commissioners................................................................................................................ 31554 Coroners........................................................................................................................ 31470.9 County employees........................................................................................... 31552–31552.2 County superintendent of schools............................................................................ 31565.5 Districtemployees............................................................................... 31557–31557.3,31564 Electiveofficers................................................................................................... 31553,31562 Institutionsintwoormorecounties............................................................................ 31502 Participantinadeferredcompensationplan............................................................. 31482 Probationofficers......................................................................................................... 31469.4 Publicadministrators.................................................................................................. 31470.9 Safety............................................................................. 31469.4–31469.6,31470.2,31470.25, ............................................. 31470.4,31470.6,31470.12,31470.13,31558,31559,31567 Safetymembers,incasesofdoubt............................................................................ 31470.8 Superiorcourtofficersandattachés............................................................................ 31554 Exclusion from Byregulationsofboard.................................................................................................. 31527 For participants paid under the Comprehensive Employment andTrainingActof1973................................................................................................ 31551 For temporary employees.......................................................................................... 31641.5 Ineligibility Contractor for temporary service................................................................................. 31561 Duringpublicserviceorineligiblecountyservice................................................. 31470.7

xviii

Electiveofficerwhodoesnotdeclareintention......................................................... 31562 Forsafetymembership................................................................ 31470.3,31470.5,31470.6, ................................................................................................................31470.10,31470.11 Time of entrance into.......................................................................................... 31527,31552 Waiver..................................................................................................................................... 31552MercedCounty Alternativeplan..................................................................................................... 31499–31499.9 Authoritytoprovidedifferentretirementbenefits—safety.......................................31485.11 Terminationofcertainadditionalbenefits..................................................................... 31484.7Militaryservice................................................................................... 31641.97,31649–31651,31653Misconduct,willful Denialofpensionbecause................................................................................................... 31728Modifiedallowance........................................................................................................ 31760–31768

NNon-contributoryplans............................................................................................... 31486–31495.5Noneligibles(seeMembership,ineligibility)Nonservice-connecteddeath(seeSurvivorshipbenefits)Nonservice-connecteddisability(seeDisabilityretirement)Normalratesofcontribution(seeContributions)NoticetoorganizationofretiredCountyordistrictemployees....................................... 31592.5Noticetospousere:benefitselection/changeofbeneficiary............................................ 31760.3

OOath,administrationof.............................................................................................................. 31535Old-AgeandSurvivorsInsurance(seeIntegrationwith)Oldfund(seeSupersededsystem)Onceadoptedmaybeterminated............................................................................................ 31483Option1........................................................................................................................................ 31761Option2......................................................................................................................... 31762,31764.5Option3......................................................................................................................... 31763,31764.5Option4......................................................................................................................... 31764,31764.5Option5...................................................................................................................... 31764.6,31764.7Optionalcalculationofretirementallowance...................................................................... 31808.6Optionalretirementallowances.................................................................................... 31760–31768OrangeCounty Annualbudget,administration....................................................................................... 31580.2 Appointmentofpersonnel............................................................................................... 31522.5 Appropriationsandtransferoffunds............................................................................. 31585.2 Assumptionofsafetyfunctions.......................................................................................... 31657 Calculationofretirementbenefits.................................................................. 31678.3,31678.31 Contracts for legal services............................................................................................... 31529.9 District.................................................................................................................................... 31468 Eligibilityforsafetymembership................................................................. 31470.10,31470.25 Membership........................................................................................................................ 31557.3 TransitDistrict....................................................................................................................... 31656Ordinance Acceptingsystem.................................................................................................................. 31500OrganizatonofretiredCountyordistrictemployees,notice............................................ 31592.5

xix

Otherpublicagencies,functionsof Assumedbycounty(seeTransfers)Overtime,notcompensationearnable.................................................................................. 31461.6

PParkRangers............................................................................................................................ 31470.2Part-timeemployees(seeTemporaryemployees)Paymentafterretirement......................................................................................... 31485.7,31485.8Pension Amountof(seeCalculationofretirementallowances;Disabilityretirement; Serviceretirement) Payablemonthly................................................................................................................... 31600 Pro-ratedforportionofmonth........................................................................................... 31600Pensionboard.................................................................................................................. 31884,31888Personalinterest,incompatible BoardofRetirementmembers............................................................................................ 31528Personnel,appointmentbytheboard.................................................................... 31522.1–31522.3Phonographicreporters.............................................................................................................. 31554Physicalexamination Forsafetymembers.............................................................................................................. 31527Policemen(seeSafetymembers)Post-retirementservice................................................................................................ 31694–31694.5Presumption Biochemicalsubstances,exposure................................................................................... 31720.9 Blood-borneinfectiousdisease........................................................................................ 31720.7 Cancer .................................................................................................................................. 31720.6 Hearttrouble...................................................................................................................... 31720.5 Methicillin-resistantStaphylococcusaureusskininfection......................................... 31720.7Priorservice Boardmaydefinewhatconstitutes.................................................................................... 31644 Calculation of, in allowance Credit for................................................................. 31641.5,31641.56,31641.6,31645,31645.5, ........................................................................................... 31676,31676.3,31676.9,31679 Defined................................................................................................................................... 31643 Electiveofficers.................................................................................................................. 31648.5 Generalandsafetymembers................................................................................ 31676,31676.9 Outofservice,notcreditable.............................................................................................. 31647 Pension........................................................................................................ 31676,31676.9,31677 Probationofficer,blood-borneinfectiousdiseasepresumption................................. 31720.7 Probationofficersassafetymembers............................................................... 31469.4,31469.8 Regulationsbyboard........................................................................................................... 31644 SupercededcourtPro-ratingofretirementallowance........................................................................................... 31600Prosecutors,local....................................................................... 31469.2,31470.14,31787.5,31787.6Publicagency Assumingfunctionsofanotherpublicagency(seeTransfers) Eligibilityassafetymemberofformeremployeeof........................................................ 31559Publicassistanceemployees Transferred from state to counties...................................................................................... 31654

xx

PublicDefenders,local............................................................. 31469.2,31470.14,31787.5,31787.6PublicDefenderInvestigators,local....................................... 31469.2,31470.14,31787.5,31787.6PublicEmployees’PensionReformAct(seeCaliforniaPublicEmployees'PensionReformAct)PublicEmployees’RetirementSystem Final compensation (reciprocity)........................................................................................ 31835 Informationsuppliedby...................................................................................................... 31533 Member’sageafterredepositofcontributions............................................................. 31833.1 Membersof,employmentbycounty................................................................................. 31654 Resumptionofstatefunctionsbycounty(seeTransfers) Transfer of functions (see Transfers)Publicservice Adoptionofprovisions................................................................................................... 31641.95 Ascitycouncilman............................................................................................................ 31479.1 Calculation of cost............................................................................................ 31641.2,31641.20 Contributionsfor,notmatched........................................................................................ 31641.9 Contributionstoobtaincreditfor..................................................................... 31641.2,31641.8 Credit for.................................................................................................. 31480,31641.1,31641.4 Defined................................................................................................................................... 31479 Doesnotcreateeligibilityforbenefits............................................................................... 31480 IntheDistrictofColumbia............................................................................................... 31479.2 IntheMerchantMarine.................................................................................................... 31479.3 Membernotduring........................................................................................................... 31470.7 Pensionfromothersystem............................................................................................... 31641.4 Safetymembers.................................................................................................................. 31641.4 Termination of right to credit for................................................................................... 31641.95

RRateofinterest(seeInterest)Rateofcontributions(seeContributions)Real Estate..................................................................................................................... 31601.1,31607Reassignmentofdisabledemployee...................................................................... 31725.5,31725.6Reciprocalbenefitswithotherretirementsystems Ingeneral................................................................................................................ 31830–31840.7 Ageforfixingrateofcontributions....................................... 31831.1–31831.3,31833–31833.1 Cities .................................................................................................................................. 31840.2 Compensationearnable........................................................................................ 31641.3,31835 Concurrent retirement....................................................................................................... 31835.1 Deathbenefit,lumpsum........................................................................ 31839,31840,31840.01 Deferredretirement Maynotrescindwhileinotherservice........................................................... 31701,31831 Requiredtoqualifyforreciprocalstatus..................................................................... 31700 Disabilityretirement.............................................................................................. 31837–31838.5 Exchangeofinformationbetweensystems....................................................................... 31832 Hearttroubleasevidenceofservice-connecteddisability.......................................... 31720.5 Judges’RetirementSystem,Judges’RetirementSystemII.......................................... 31840.8 Legislative intent................................................................................................................... 31830 PublicEmployees’RetirementSystem................................................ 31831,31840.2,31840.3 Safetymembership............................................................................................................... 31834 Service,combinationof,forpurposeofqualifyingforbenefits.................................... 31836,

xxi

................................................................................................................... 31836.1,31840.3 StateTeachers’RetirementSystem.................................................................................. 31840.8 UniversityofCalifornia.................................................................................................... 31840.1Recognizedretireeorganization Communications materials.............................................................................................. 31592.6 Defined................................................................................................................................ 31471.5Records Ofmembers,areconfidential.............................................................................................. 31532 Subjecttoefficientmanagementprocedures.................................................................... 31537Redepositofcontributions.............................................................. 31527,31652–31652.2,31831.2, ................................................................................................................. 31831.3,31835.01Reemployment after retirement (see Employment, after retirement)Reentry into service........................................................ 31649,31650,31652,31680,31730,31733Referee .............................................................................................................................. 31533, 31534Referendum IntegrationwithOld-AgeandSurvivorsInsurance........................................................ 31800RefundofContributions Boardmaywithhold............................................................................................................. 31628 Escheat on failure to apply for............................................................................................ 31629 Ifmemberentitledtoredepositinanotherretirementsystem................................. 31641.45 Oncancellationofdeferredstatus...................................................................................... 31701 Oncancellationofdisabilityallowance............................................................................. 31737 Ondeath..................................................................................................................... 31702,31781 Ontermination....................................................................................................... 31628–31629.5 Onwithdrawalfromsystembydistrict............................................................................ 31564 Specialcontributionstosupersededsystem..................................................................... 31509Regulations Boardregulations...................................................................................................... 31526,31527 Ingeneral............................................................................................................................ 31725.6Rehabilitation............................................................................................................................ 31725.6Reinstatement (see Employment, after retirement)Rescinding retirement.............................................................................................. 31680.4,31680.5Resolution Onceadoptedmaybeterminated...................................................................................... 31483Retiredmemberorganization................................................................................................. 31592.5Retirement(seeDeferredretirement;Disabilityretirement;Serviceretirement)Retirement allowance (see Calculation of retirement allowances) Earnedbutnotyetpaid.................................................................................................... 31452.7Retirement association................................................................................................... 31474,31550Retirementbenefits,maynotbedifferent........................................................... 31485.9,31485.10Retirement,Boardof(seeBoardofRetirement)Retirementcontributions(seeContributions)Retirement fund (see Employees retirement fund)Retirementservicecredit(seeService,creditfor)Retirement system Additionalplan...................................................................................................... 31510–31510.4 Adoptionbyinter-countyinstitutions............................................................................... 31502 Adoptionincounty...................................................................................... 31500,31501,31510 Alternativeplans(seeAlternativeplans)

xxii

Defined................................................................................................................................... 31476 Establishmentof........................................................................................................ 31500–31509 Supersedesformersystem................................................................................................... 31503Retroactive provisions.................................................................. 31676.98,31681,31738,31835.01Revolvingdoorprohibition....................................................................................................... 31528Rewards, payment to one retired.............................................................................................. 31680Rightsexisting,notabrogatedbynewamendments............................................................. 31481

SSacramentoCounty Assistantadministrators;chiefinvestmentofficers...................................................... 31522.3 Creditassafetymember................................................................................................. 31639.76 Parkrangers........................................................................................................................ 31470.2 Sickleavecredit................................................................................................................ 31641.01Safetymembers Additionalcontributions.................................................................................................. 31664.3 Age......................................................................................................................................... 31558 Biochemicalsubstance,exposure.................................................................................... 31720.9 Blood-borneinfectiousdisease,presumptionof........................................................... 31720.7 Broughtwithinfieldofsafetymembership.................................................. 31639.7,31639.76 Cancer, presumption of..................................................................................................... 31720.6 Changeinclassification....................................................................................................... 31560 Child support investigators and administrators......................................................... 31470.12 Combinedsafetyandgeneralmembership................................................................. 31664.65 Constable............................................................................................................................. 31470.2 Contributionsof Ingeneral.......................................................................................................... 31639–31639.9 Age,basedon................................................................................. 31558.1,31639.1–31639.4 Averageannuity.......................................................................................... 31639.25,31639.5 Paymentbycounty.................................................................................................... 31639.85 Rate for age 35.............................................................................................................. 31639.4 Redepositofcontributions......................................................................................... 31831.3 Counselor............................................................................................................................ 31469.4 Countiesunderfixedformula,ratesof........................................................................... 31639.3 Credit for service from a closed military installation................................................. 31641.55 Creditforserviceprevioustosafetymembership........................................................ 31639.7 Creditfortimeasgeneralmember................................................................................ 31639.75 Deathbenefit(seeDeathbenefit;alsoSurvivorshipbenefits) Defined................................................................................................................................ 31469.3 Electiontobecomeasafetymember............................................................... 31558.2,31558.6, .......................................................................................................... 31558.8,31567,31581 Electiveofficers,compulsoryretirement........................................................................ 31662.8 Eligibility............................................................................. 31469.3–31469.6,31470.2,31470.25, .............................................. 31470.4,31470.6,31470.9–31470.14,31558–31560,31567 Extension of provisions...................................................................................... 31695.1–31695.3 Extension of time for election................................................................ 31558.1,31558.8,31567 Firefighters........................................................................................................... 31470.4,31470.5 SocialSecurity,notsubjectto.................................................... 31801,31887,31891,31892 Transferredfromotherpublicagencies.................................................................... 31648.2

xxiii

Firewardens......................................................................................................... 31470.4,31470.5 Foresters............................................................................................................... 31470.4,31470.5 HarborImprovementDistrictemployees...................................................................... 31469.6 Hearttrouble,presumptionof......................................................................................... 31720.5 Ineligibility...........................................................31470.3,31470.5,31470.6,31470.10,31470.11 IntegrationwithOld-AgeandSurvivorsInsurance........................................................ 31801 Juvenilehallgroupcounselor.......................................................................................... 31469.4 Lifeguards............................................................................................................ 31470.6,31558.5 MandatoryRetirement......................................................... 31662.4–31663.1,31663.2,31663.3 Marshal................................................................................................................. 31470.2,31470.3 Minimumallowance......................................................................................................... 31664.5 Parkrangers........................................................................................................................ 31470.2 Presumption;timeofapplication....................................................................................... 31722 Retirement(seeDeferredretirement;Disabilityretirement;Serviceretirement) Retroactivedisabilitypayments...................................................................................... 31897.6 Secondchancetobecomeasafetymember........................................ 31558.1,31558.8,31567 Sheriff,electiontobecomemember................................................................................... 31558 Survivorshipbenefits(seeSurvivorshipbenefits) Time for election extended.................................................................... 31558.1,31567,31695.2 Transferredfromotherpublicagencies............................................................................. 31559 Undersheriff,electiontobecomemember........................................................................ 31558 Welfare fraud investigators and administrators..........................................................31470.11Salaries,paymentof,lesscontributions................................................................................... 31626Salaryandbenefitincreases........................................................................................ 31515.5,31516SanBernardinoCounty Appointmentofpersonnel................................................................................ 31522.5,31522.7 Contracts for legal services............................................................................................... 31529.9 Contributionsnotdeductedafter30yearsservice....................................................... 31625.2 District.................................................................................................................................... 31468 Post-EmploymentHealthBenefits................................................................. 31699.1–31699.10SanDiegoCounty Alternativebenefitformulas............................................................................................ 31808.8 Assistantadministrators;chiefinvestmentofficers...................................................... 31522.3 Courtserviceofficers......................................................................................................... 31470.2 Eligibilityforsafetymembership...................................................... 31470.2,31470.3,31558.8 Publicservice.................................................................................................................... 31641.20 Sickleavecredit................................................................................................................ 31641.02 Terminationofcertainadditionalbenefits........................................................................ 31484SanJoaquinCounty Assistantadministrators;chiefinvestmentofficers...................................................... 31522.3 Contracts for legal services............................................................................................... 31529.9 District.................................................................................................................................... 31468SanMateoCounty Alternativeplan..................................................................................................... 31496–31498.7 Authoritytoprovideretirementbenefits..................................................................... 31485.10 Cost-of-Living.................................................................................................................... 31874.4 Definitions........................................................................................................................... 31496.3 Domesticpartners.............................................................................................................. 31780.2

xxiv

Militaryservice,creditfor................................................................................................ 31641.7 Normalratesofcontribution............................................................................................ 31621.9 Optionalcalculationofallowance................................................................................... 31800.1 Optionalsafetystatusforprobationofficers................................................................. 31469.5 Terminationofcertainadditionalbenefits..................................................................... 31484.5SantaBarbaraCounty Alternativeplan................................................................................................... 31486–31486.12 Appointmentofalternateretiredmember..................................................................... 31520.3 Assumptionofsafetyfunctions....................................................................................... 31657.1 Contracts for legal services............................................................................................... 31529.9 Electiveofficers.................................................................................................................. 31672.2 Eligibilityforsafetymembership..................................................................31470.11,31470.12Seasonalemployees(seeTemporaryemployees)Securities Investmentin......................................................................................................................... 31594 Saleof..................................................................................................................................... 31596Service Ingeneral................................................................................................................ 31640–31657.1 Additionalcreditifspecifiedconditionsexist............................................................. 31641.04 Afterretirement(seeEmployment,afterretirement) BoardofRetirementcanestimatelengthof...................................................................... 31531 Continuity of.......................................................................................................................... 31642 Credit for AdditionalRetirementCredit(ARC)........................................................................... 31658 Armedforces....................................................................................................... 31649–31651 Electiveofficers............................................................. 31640.7,31648.5,31648.55,31648.6 Firefighters,previousserviceataclosedmilitarybase....................................... 31641.55 Indeferredstatus....................................................................................................... 31641.56 Informationunavailable............................................................................................. 31641.7 Layoffabsence.............................................................................................................. 31648.3 Notpreviouslywithinfieldofmembership................................................ 31639.7,31648 Ontransferfromcitytocountysystems(seeTransfers) OrangeCountyTransitDistrict.................................................................................... 31656 Paymentafterretirement............................................................................. 31485.7,31485.8 Priorservice(seePriorservice) Publicservice(seePublicservice) Qualify for retirement................................................................................................. 31672.5 Reciprocal service........................................................................................................ 31652.2 Safetymembers............................................................................................. 31639.7,31641.4 Sickleave................................................................................................... 31641.01–31641.03 Temporaryservice(includingseasonal,intermittent,part-time).......... 31640.5,31641.5 Time not in service not credited................................................................................... 31647 Uncompensatedleaveofabsenceduetoillness......................................... 31646,31646.1 Warrelocationabsence.................................................................................................. 31655 Defined................................................................................................................................... 31641Service-connecteddeath(seeSurvivorshipbenefits)Service-connecteddisability(seeDisabilityretirement)Serviceretirement Generalmembers

xxv

Ingeneral............................................................................................................. 31670–31682 Annuity............................................................................................................................ 31674 Applicationtoretire....................................................................................................... 31672 Boardretires.................................................................................................................... 31670 Calculation of allowance (see Calculation of retirement allowances) Combinedmiscellaneousandsafetycredit........................................................... 31664.65 Compulsory ExceptiononintegrationwithOASDI.................................................................. 31806 Current service pension............................................................... 31675,31676.95,31676.96 Electiveofficers............................................................................................................ 31672.2 Eligibilityforretirement................................................................ 31671.05,31672,31672.1 Employment after retirement (see Employment, after retirement) Increasegrantedafterretirement(seeIncreasesofretirementallowances) Maximum.....................................................................................31676.1,31676.11–31676.15 Minimum............................................................................................................. 31679,31681 Pendingentitlementtodisability.............................................................................. 31725.7 Priorservicecredit....................................................................................................... 31676.3 Priorservicepension........................................................................... 31676,31676.9,31677 Reductionwhenmemberretiresbeforeage60.......................................................... 31677 Retirement allowance.................................................................................... 31664.65,31673 Payablemonthly....................................................................................................... 31600 Pro-ratedforportionofmonth............................................................................... 31600 Safetymembers (Seealsogeneralprovisionsundergeneralmembers) Ingeneral........................................................................................................ 31662–31664.65 Agetoretire................................................................... 31662.4–31663.1,31663.25–31663.3 Applicationtoretire................................................................................. 31663.25,31663.26 Boardretires................................................................................................................. 31662.2 Calculation of allowance (see Calculation of retirement allowances) Combinedsafetyandgeneralcredit....................................................................... 31664.65 Eligibilityforretirement.......................................................................... 31633.25,31633.26 Mandatoryretirement................................................................... 31662.4–31663.1,31663.3 Maximum.......................................................................................................... 31664,31676.1 Minimumwithpriorservice.................................................................................... 31664.15 Pendingentitlementtodisability.............................................................................. 31725.7 Priorservice................................................................................................. 31664.15,31664.3ShortTitle..................................................................................................................................... 31450SickLeave..................................................................................................................................... 31724 Sickleavecreditedasservice........................................................................ 31641.01–31641.03 Uncompensatedleaveofabsenceduetoillness.............................................................. 31646SocialSecurity(seeIntegrationwithOld-AgeandSurvivorsInsurance)SonomaCounty Cost-of-LivingAdjustment............................................................................................... 31874.6SouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrict....................................................................... 31468 Paymentsofcontributionsby............................................................................................. 31630 Retirement formula............................................................................................................ 31678.4Spousepension(seeSurvivorshipbenefits)StanislausCounty Alternativeplan.............................................................................................. 31499.10–31499.19

xxvi

Normalratesofcontribution............................................................................................ 31621.9Statements Annualfinancial........................................................................................................ 31597–31598 Members’................................................................................................................................ 31526 Members’sworn,areconfidential...................................................................................... 31532StateTeachers’RetirementSystem........................................................................................... 31565 Certificatedemployeesmaytransferto............................................................................. 31565 Reciprocal............................................................................................................................ 31840.8Subpoenas..................................................................................................................... 31535,31535.1Subrogation...................................................................................................................... 31820–31823Superiorcourts Appropriations.......................................................................................................... 31536,31556 Commissioners of................................................................................................................. 31554 Officersandattachés................................................................................................ 31469,31554 Phonographicreporters....................................................................................................... 31554Supersededsystem Ingeneral............................................................................................................................... 31503 Assets,administrationof..................................................................................................... 31508 Assetsof..................................................................................................................... 31505,31507 Contributions Withdrawal of................................................................................................................. 31509 Records of............................................................................................................................... 31505 Retiredmembersof.............................................................................................................. 31506Supplementalretireebenefitreserve........................................................................................ 31618Surplusearnings/funds(seeExcessinterest/earnings)Survivors’allowances................................................................................................ 31841–31855.12 Alternate..................................................................................................................... 31861–31869Survivorshipbenefits Beneficiary Designationof.................................................................................................. 31458.2,31782 Revocation of................................................................................................................... 31792 “Burialexpenses”(see“Burialexpenses”) Combinedlumpsumandmonthlyallowance............................................. 31781.3,31781.31 Deathofmemberbeforeretirement Liabilityfor...................................................................................................................... 31780 Lump-sumbenefit......................................................................................... 31781,31781.01 Monthlypaymentinlieuof.................................................................................... 31784 Specialdeathbenefitforspouse—Safetyonly.................................................. 31787.6 Nonservice-connecteddisabilityqualification...................................... 31781.1,31781.12, ................................................................................................................................ 31781.13 Service-connecteddeathqualification......................................................................... 31787 Specialdeathbenefit—children........................................................................... 31787.5 Serviceretirementqualification...................................................... 31765–31765.3,31781.2 Deathofmemberafterretirement Serviceretirementandnonservice-connecteddisabilityretirement................................. ................................................................................ 31760.1–31760.2,31781.12,31781.13, Safetymembersonly................................................................................. 31785–31785.5 Service-connecteddisabilityretirement....................................... 31786,31786.1,31787.5, .................................................................................................................................. 31787.6

xxvii

DomesticPartners.............................................................................................................. 31780.2 Ex-spouse............................................................................................................. 31458.3,31458.4 UnderintegrationwithOld-AgeandSurvivorsInsurance.............................................31811Suspension,continuityofservice............................................................................................. 31642Swornstatements Ofmembers Areconfidential.............................................................................................................. 31532 Arerequiredonentry..................................................................................................... 31526 Oftreasurer Form of statement........................................................................................................... 31598 Onfinancialconditionofsystem.................................................................................. 31597 Rules may provide for................................................................................................... 31526

TTaxation,retirementallowances,etc.,exemptfrom............................................................... 31452Temporaryemployees(includingseasonal,intermittent,andpart-time) Exclusionfrommembership............................................................................................... 31527 Final compensation............................................................................................................ 31462.2 Service,creditfor................................................................................................ 31640.5,31641.5Terminationofmembership District........................................................................................................................ 31557,31564 Electiveofficer....................................................................................................................... 31553 UndersheriffofCountyofVentura................................................................................. 31663.3Termination of optional provisions.......................................................................................... 31483Thirty years of service........................................................................................................... 31676.56Title of law.................................................................................................................................... 31450Transfers Assetsandrecordsofsupersededsystem......................................................................... 31505 City functions..................................................................................................................... 31641.6 Contracting agency............................................................................................................ 31648.4 County school service fund.............................................................................................. 31585.1 Firefightingservices.......................................................................................................... 31648.2 Offunctionsrelatingtoadministrationofaid totheaged/needy/blind..................................................................................................... 31654 Publicagency.......................................................................................................... 31559,31672.5 Retirementfordisability,transferinsteadof................................................................. 31725.5 Safetyfunctions...................................................................................................... 31657,31657.1Treasurer, County Annualfinancialstatement.............................................................................................. 31597.2 Custodian,mayauthorize................................................................................................... 31596 Defined................................................................................................................................ 31485.6 Funds, control of................................................................................................................ 31595.1 Recordsofcontributions...................................................................................................... 31599 Trustfundaccount,shallopenonbooks........................................................................... 31588 Warrants, signs...................................................................................................................... 31590Trust company............................................................................................................................. 31596Trust deeds, investments in....................................................................................................... 31595Trust fund ..................................................................................................................................... 31588Tulare County

xxviii

District.................................................................................................................................... 31468

UUnassignablerightinretirementfund..................................................................................... 31452Uncompensatedleaveofabsenceduetoillness...................................................... 31641.1,31646Undersheriff Compulsory retirement........................................................................................................ 31663 Safetymember,electiontobecome.................................................................................... 31558 UndersheriffofCountyofVentura................................................................................. 31663.3Undertaker,paymentto............................................................................................................. 31783Unfundedliability.................................................................................................................... 31453.6Uninterruptedservice................................................................................................................ 31641UnitedStates Contributionsto............................................................................................ 31812,31813,31814 Insurance,governmentconverted................................................................................... 31452.5 Publicagency,is.................................................................................................................... 31478UniversityofCalifornia Membershipinretirementsystem....................................................... 31468,31557.1,31840.1Unmodifiedretirementallowance(seeCurrentservicepension)

VVacanciesonboard......................................................................................................... 31523,31524Valuation, actuarial..................................................................................................................... 31453Ventura County Alternativeplan....................................................................................................31511–31511.11 Supplementalretirementbenefit......................................................................... 31682,31682.2 Terminationofcertainadditionalbenefits........................................................................ 31485 Undersheriff........................................................................................................................ 31663.3Veterans,militaryleave,etc............................................................................... 31649–31651,31653Violationoflaw,denialofpensionbecauseof......................................................... 31728–31728.2Vision Care..................................................................................................... 31452.5,31698–31698.4Vocationalrehabilitation......................................................................................................... 31725.6

WWages,paymentof,lesscontributions..................................................................................... 31626Waiver Membership........................................................................................................................... 31552Warrelocationabsence............................................................................................................... 31655Warrants Auditorcountersigns........................................................................................................... 31590 Deductionsfrom,for Contributionsofmembers................................................................. 31625,31625.1,31626 Insuranceafterretirement.......................................................................................... 31452.5 Regulations...................................................................................................................... 31527 Forwardingatmember’srequest.................................................................................... 31452.6 Lost, issuance of duplicate.............................................................................................. 31452.65 Memberofboardsigns........................................................................................................ 31590 Treasurer signs....................................................................................................................... 31590Welfare fraud investigators and administrators.................................................................31470.11

xxix

Willfulmisconduct,denialofpensionbecauseof................................................... 31728,31728.1Withdrawals Additionalcontributions.................................................................................................. 31627.1 Charge for.................................................................................................................. 31527,31628 Discontinuanceofservice........................................................................................ 31628,31629 Districtfromsystem................................................................................................. 31557,31564 Electiveofficerfromsystem................................................................................................ 31553 Funds not withdrawn Withinfiveyears............................................................................................................. 31628 Within ten years.............................................................................................................. 31629 Redeposit of.............................................................................. 31652,31652.2,31831.1–31831.3 Service,continuityof............................................................................................................ 31642 Specialcontributionsofsupersededsystem..................................................................... 31509 TransferofmembershiptoStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,on............................... 31565

YYearofService Definedforpart-timemembers....................................................................................... 31640.5

xxx

2014EditionCOUNTY EMPLOYEES

RETIREMENT LAW OF 1937

Article 1. General

§31450. Short titleThischaptermaybecitedastheCountyEmployeesRetirementLawof1937.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31451. PurposeThepurposeofthischapteristorecognizeapublicobligationtocountyanddistrict

employeeswhobecomeincapacitatedbyageorlongserviceinpublicemploymentanditsaccompanyingphysicaldisabilitiesbymakingprovisionforretirementcompensationanddeathbenefitasadditionalelementsofcompensationforfutureservicesandtoprovideameansbywhichpublicemployeeswhobecomeincapacitatedmaybereplacedbymorecapableemployeestothebettermentofthepublicservicewithoutprejudiceandwithoutinflictingahardshipupontheemployeesremoved.

(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31452. Retirement allowances exempt from taxation and other processThe right of a person to a pension, annuity, retirement allowance, return of

contributions,thepension,annuity,orretirementallowance,anyoptionalbenefit,anyotherright accrued or accruing to any person under this chapter, the money in the fund created or continuedunderthischapterortheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,and any property purchased for investment purposes pursuant to this chapter, are exempt from taxation,includinganyinheritancetax,whetherstate,county,municipal,ordistrict.TheyarenotsubjecttoexecutionoranyotherprocessofcourtwhatsoeverexcepttotheextentpermittedbySection31603ofthiscodeandSection704.110oftheCodeofCivilProcedure,andareunassignableexceptasspecificallyprovidedinthischapter.

(AmendedbyStats.1982,Ch.497,Sec.117;OperativeJuly1,1983,byCh.497,Sec.185)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.1)

§31452.5. Deduction from retirement allowance for insurance, etc.; fee(a)Theboardmaycomplywithandgiveeffecttoarevocablewrittenauthorization

signedbyaretiredmemberorbeneficiaryofaretiredmemberentitledtoaretirementallowanceorbenefitunderthischapterortheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,authorizingthetreasurerorotherentityauthorizedbytheboardtodeductaspecifiedamountfromtheretirementallowanceorbenefitpayabletoanyretiredmemberorbeneficiaryofaretiredmemberforanyofthefollowingpurposes:

(1)Payingpremiumsonanypolicyorcertificateofgrouplifeinsuranceorgroupdisabilityinsuranceissuedbyanadmittedinsurer.

(2)Payingpremiumsforaprepaidgroupmedicalorhospitalserviceplan.(3)Payingpremiumsforavisioncareprogramordentalplan,approvedbythe

board,forthebenefitoftheretiredmemberorhisorherdependents.(4)PayingpremiumsonnationalservicelifeinsuranceorUnitedStatesgovernment

convertedinsurance.(5)Paymentforthepurchaseofsharesinorthepaymentofmoneytoanyregularly

Article1,§31450.-§31452.5.1

charteredcreditunion.(6)Paymenttoacharitableorganizationorafederallycharteredveterans’

organizationthatisapprovedbytheboard.(7)Paymentstoarecognizedretireeorganization.(8)PaymentforthepurchaseofUnitedStatessavingsbonds.(9)ThepaymentofpersonalincometaxestothegovernmentoftheUnitedStatesor

theStateofCalifornia.(10)Paymentforanyretireebenefitprogramsavailablethroughtherecognized

retireeorganization.Theboardmayrequirethatthispaymentbetoasinglepartydesignatedbytherecognizedretireeorganization,eithertoitselfortoathird-partyadministrator.

(b)Eachmonththeordershallbedrawninfavoroftheinsurer,institution,creditunion,organization,orgovernmentnamedinthewrittenauthorizationforanamountequaltothedeductionsauthorizedinsubdivision(a)andmadeduringthemonth.

(c)Theboardmaychargeareasonablefeeforthemakingofthedeductionsandpayments.

(AmendedbyStats.1989,Ch.121,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1995,Ch.584(AB1021),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2007,Ch.331(AB1288),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2012,Ch.178(SB1382),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.2)

§31452.6. Delivery of benefits to financial institutions; refunds after death(a)Theboardshallcomplywithandgiveeffecttoarevocablewrittenauthorization

signedbyaretiredmemberorbeneficiaryofaretiredmemberentitledtoaretirementallowanceorbenefitunderthischapterortheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,authorizingthetreasurerorotherentityauthorizedbytheboardtodeliverthemonthlywarrant,check,orelectronicfundtransfer,fortheretirementallowanceorbenefittoanyspecifiedbank,savingsandloaninstitution,orcredituniontobecreditedtotheaccountoftheretiredmemberorsurvivorofadeceasedretiredmember.Thatdeliveryisfulldischargeoftheliabilityoftheboardtopayamonthlyretirementallowanceorbenefittotheretiredmemberorsurvivorofadeceasedretiredmember.

(b)AnypaymentsdirectlydepositedbyelectronicfundtransferfollowingthedateofdeathofapersonwhowasentitledtoreceivearetirementallowanceorbenefitunderthischapterortheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013shallberefundedtotheretirementsystem.

(c)Inordertoobtaininformationfromafinancialinstitutionfollowingthedeathofaretiredmemberorthebeneficiaryofaretiredmember,asprovidedinsubdivision(o)ofSection7480,theboardmaycertifyinwritingtothefinancialinstitutionthattheretiredmemberorthebeneficiaryofaretiredmemberhasdiedandthattransferstotheaccountoftheretiredmemberorbeneficiaryofaretiredmemberatthefinancialinstitutionfromtheretirementsystemoccurredafterthedateofdeathoftheretiredmemberorthebeneficiaryofaretiredmember.

(AmendedbyStats.1995,Ch.584(AB1021),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.506(AB3094),Sec.4)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.3)

§31452.65. Issuance of duplicate for lost or destroyed warrantUponreceiptofproof,satisfactorytotheboard,thatawarrantorcheckdrawnin

payment of a retirement allowance or in payment of any other account due from the retirement systemhasbeenlostordestroyed,thetreasurerorotherentityauthorizedbytheboardupon

Article1,§31452.5.-§31452.65. 2

requestoftheboardofretirementshallasprovidedbySection31590issueaduplicatewarrantorcheckbearingthesamedateastheoriginalinpaymentofthesameamount,withoutrequiringabondfromthepayee,andthetreasurerorotherentityauthorizedbytheboardshallpaytheduplicateinlieuoftheoriginalwarrantorcheckandanylossesincurredbyreasonoftheissuanceofduplicatewarrantsorchecksshallbeachargeagainsttheaccountfromwhichthepaymentisderived.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilthetimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolution,makethissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(AddedbyStats.1974,Ch.471,Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.1995,Ch.584(AB1021),Sec.3)

§31452.7. Member’s or survivor’s death; payment of allowance(a)Uponthedeathofanymemberafterretirement,anyretirementallowanceearnedbut

notyetpaidtothemembershall,notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,bepaidtothemember’sdesignatedbeneficiary.

(b)Uponthedeathofanypersonreceivingasurvivor’sallowanceunderthischapter,anyallowanceearnedbutnotyetpaidtothesurvivorshall,notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,bepaidtothesurvivor’sdesignatedbeneficiary.

(AddedbyStats.2000,Ch.497(SB2008),Sec.1)

§31453. Actuarial valuation; recommendation as to changes of rates of interest; contributions and appropriations; exception(a)Anactuarialvaluationshallbemadewithinoneyearafterthedateonwhichany

systemestablishedunderthischapterbecomeseffective,andthereafteratintervalsnottoexceedthreeyears.Thevaluationshallbeconductedunderthesupervisionofanactuaryandshallcoverthemortality,service,andcompensationexperienceofthemembersandbeneficiaries,andshallevaluatetheassetsandliabilitiesoftheretirementfund.Uponthebasisoftheinvestigation,valuation,andrecommendationoftheactuary,theboardshall,atleast45dayspriortothebeginningofthesucceedingfiscalyear,recommendtotheboardofsupervisorsthechangesintheratesofinterest,intheratesofcontributionsofmembers,andincountyanddistrictappropriationsasarenecessary.Withrespecttotheratesofinteresttobecreditedtomembersandtothecountyordistrict,theboardmay,initssounddiscretion,recommendaratewhichishigherorlowerthantheinterestassumptionrateestablishedbytheactuarialsurvey.Noadjustmentshallbeincludedinthenewratesfortimepriortotheeffectivedateoftherevision.

(b)(1)Uponthebasisoftheinvestigation,valuation,andrecommendationoftheactuary,theboardshall,atleast45dayspriortothebeginningofthesucceedingfiscalyear,recommendtothegoverningbodyofadistrictwithinthecountysystemthatisnotgovernedbytheboardofsupervisorsthechangesintheratesofcontributionsofdistrictmembersandindistrictappropriationsasarenecessary.

(2)Thissubdivisionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makestheprovisionsapplicableinthatcounty.

(Amended(asamendedbyStats.1984,Ch.591,Sec.1)byStats.1984,Ch.1738,Sec.2,EffectiveSeptember30,1984)

(AmendedbyStats.2005,Ch.63(AB538),Sec.1)

§31453.5. Normal contribution rate; computationNotwithstandingSection31587,andinaccordancewithSection31453or31510.1,the

boardmaydeterminecountyordistrictcontributionsonthebasisofanormalcontribution

Article1,§31452.65.-§31453.5.3

ratewhichshallbecomputedasalevelpercentageofcompensationwhich,whenappliedtothefuturecompensationoftheaveragenewmemberenteringthesystem,togetherwiththerequiredmembercontributions,willbesufficienttoprovideforthepaymentofallprospectivebenefitsofsuchmember.Theportionofliabilitynotprovidedbythenormalcontributionrateshallbeamortizedoveraperiodnottoexceed30years.

(AmendedbyStats.1983,Ch.886,Sec.2)

§31453.6. Funding period to amortize unfunded accrued actuarial obligations; new amortization periods; requestsNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,theboardofretirementmay,atthe

requestoftheboardofsupervisors,adoptafundingperiodof30yearstoamortizeunfundedaccruedactuarialobligations,asdeterminedbytheiractuaryorbyanactuaryemployedbytheboardofinvestments,forbenefitsapplicabletoallmembershipcategoriesforthepurposeofdeterminingemployercontributionratesforcountiesanddistricts.Theboardofretirementshallapproveanewamortizationperiodbaseduponarequestfromtheboardofsupervisorsthatdemonstratesafinancialnecessity.Theboardofretirementmaydenyarequestwhentherequestwouldsubjectthefundtoanunsoundfinancialrisk.Aboardofretirementmaytakeanactionpursuanttothissectiononlyonce.

(AddedbyStats.1992,Ch.707,Sec.3,EffectiveSeptember15,1992)

§31454. Adjustment by board or governing body of rates of interest, contributions, and appropriations(a)Theboardofsupervisorsshall,notlaterthan90daysafterthebeginningofthe

immediatelysucceedingfiscalyear,adjusttheratesofinterest,theratesofcontributionsofmembers,andcountyanddistrictappropriationsinaccordancewiththerecommendationsoftheboard,butshallnotfixtheminamountsthatreducetheindividualbenefitsprovidedinthischapterortheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013.

(b)(1)Thegoverningbodyofadistrictwithinthecountysystemthatisnotgovernedbytheboardofsupervisorsshall,notlaterthan90daysafterthebeginningoftheimmediatelysucceedingfiscalyear,adjusttheratesofcontributionsofdistrictmembersandindistrictappropriationsinaccordancewiththerecommendationsoftheboard,butshallnotfixtheminamountsthatreducetheindividualbenefitsprovidedinthischapterortheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013.

(2)Thissubdivisionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makestheprovisionapplicableinthatcounty.

(AmendedbyStats.1978,Ch.271,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2005,Ch.63(AB538),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.4)

§31454.1. Independent assumptions and calculations contained in actuarial valuation; meet and confer provisions; legislative intent(a) The independent assumptions and calculations of an actuary contained in the

actuarialvaluationrequiredbySection31453shallnotbesubjecttothe“meetandconfer”provisionsoftheMeyers-Milias-BrownAct;however,itisrecognizedthatthoseprovisionsrequirethattheboardortheboardofsupervisorsmeetandconferwithrepresentativesofrecognizedemployeeorganizationspriortodeterminingacourseofactionwithrespecttotherecommendationscontainedintheactuarialvaluation.

(b)(1)TheindependentassumptionsandcalculationsofanactuarycontainedintheactuarialvaluationrequiredbySection31453shallnotbesubjecttothe“meetandconfer”

Article1,§31453.5.-§31454.1. 4

provisionsoftheMeyers-Milias-BrownAct;however,itisrecognizedthatthoseprovisionsrequirethatthegoverningbodyofadistrictwithinthecountysystemthatisnotgovernedbytheboardofsupervisorsmeetandconferwithrepresentativesofrecognizedemployeeorganizationspriortodeterminingacourseofactionwithrespecttotherecommendationscontainedintheactuarialvaluation.

(2)Thissubdivisionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makestheprovisionsapplicableinthatcounty.

(c) The intent of the Legislature, in enacting this section, is to insure the solvency and actuarialsoundnessoftheretirementsystemsgovernedbythischapterbypreservingtheindependentnatureoftheactuarialevaluationprocess.


§31454.5. Additional appropriations by board to fund deficitsInanycountysubjecttotheprovisionsofSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.12,or31695.1

theboardofsupervisorsmay,byvoteenteredintheminutesoftheboard,makeanadditionalappropriationsufficienttofundoveraperiodof30yearsanydeficitwhichmayresulttothesystembecauseoftheadoptionofSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.12,or31695.1orbytheadoptionofArticles6.8,7.5and8.7.Theboardofsupervisorsmaymakesuchadditionalappropriationwhetherrecommendedbytheboardornot.

(AmendedbyStats.1973,Ch.55,Sec.1,EffectiveMay23,1973)

§31454.6. Additional appropriations by governing body of district to fund deficitsWhenever,inanycountysubjecttotheprovisionsofSection31676.1,theboardof

supervisorsmakesanyadditionalappropriationspursuanttoSection31454.5,thegoverningbodyofeverydistrict,includingtheboardofsupervisorswhereitisthegoverningbody,alsoshallmakeanadditionalappropriationintheamounttowhichithasagreed,otherwiseinthesameproportionasthetotalpayrolldeductionsfromthesalariesofallmembersemployedbysuchdistrictforthelatestpayrollperiodbeartothetotalpayrolldeductionsfromthesalariesofallmembersemployedbythecountyforthesamepayrollperiod.


§31455. Controlling definitions and general provisionsUnlessthecontextotherwiserequires,orunlesssupersededbyanyprovisionof

theCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,thedefinitionsandgeneralprovisionscontainedinthisarticlegoverntheconstructionofthischapter.


§31455.5. Fraud against county retirement systems(a)Itisunlawfulforapersontodoanyofthefollowing:

(1)Make,orcausetobemade,anyknowinglyfalsematerialstatementormaterialrepresentation,toknowinglyfailtodiscloseamaterialfact,ortootherwiseprovidefalseinformationwiththeintenttouseit,orallowittobeused,toobtain,receive,continue,increase,deny,orreduceanybenefitaccruedoraccruingtoapersonunderthischapter.

(2)Present,orcausetobepresented,anyknowinglyfalsematerialstatementormaterial representation for the purpose of supporting or opposing an application for any benefitaccruedoraccruingtoapersonunderthischapter.

(3)Knowinglyacceptorobtainpaymentfromaretirementsystemwithknowledge

Article1,§31454.1.-§31455.5.5

that the recipient is not entitled to the payment under the provisions of this chapter and with theintenttoretainthepaymentforpersonaluseorbenefit.

(4)Knowinglyaid,abet,solicit,orconspirewithanypersontodoanactprohibitedbythissection.

(b)Forpurposesofthissection,“statement”includes,butisnotlimitedto,anyoralorwrittenapplicationforbenefits,reportoffamilyrelationship,reportofinjuryorphysicalormental limitation, hospital records, test results, physician reports, or other medical records, employment records, duty statements, reports of compensation, or any other evidence material tothedeterminationofaperson’sinitialorcontinuedeligibilityforabenefitortheamountofabenefitaccruedoraccruingtoapersonunderthischapter.

(c)Apersonwhoviolatesanyprovisionofthissectionispunishablebyimprisonmentinacountyjailnottoexceedoneyear,orbyafineofnotmorethanfivethousanddollars($5,000),orbyboththatimprisonmentandfine.

(d)Apersonviolatinganyprovisionofthissectionmayberequiredbythecourtinacriminalactiontomakerestitutiontotheretirementsystem,ortoanyotherpersondeterminedbythecourt,fortheamountofthebenefitunlawfullyobtained,unlessthecourtfindsthatrestitution,oraportionofit,isnotintheinterestsofjustice.Anyrestitutionorderimposedpursuanttothissectionshallbesatisfiedbeforeanycriminalfineimposedunderthissectionmaybecollected.

(e)Theprovisionsprovidedbythissectionarecumulativeandshallnotbeconstruedasrestrictingtheapplicationofanyotherlaw.

(AddedbyStats.2008,Ch.369(AB1844),Sec.5)

§31456. “Actuarial equivalent” defined“Actuarialequivalent”meansabenefitofequalvaluewhencomputeduponthebasisof

themortalitytablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsandregularinterestthereon.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31457. “Annuity” defined“Annuity”meanspaymentforlifederivedfromcontributionsmadebyamember.


§31458. “Beneficiary” defined“Beneficiary”meansanypersoninreceiptofapension,annuity,retirementallowance,

deathbenefit,oranyotherbenefit.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31458.2. Death of member prior to designation of beneficiary; surviving spouse as beneficiary; procedureIf,afterDecember31,1957,andeitherbeforeorafterretirementamemberdiesleaving

aspouseandhasnotdesignatedabeneficiary,and,priortothepaymentofanyportionofthedeathbenefit,suchspousefileswiththeboardwrittenevidence,satisfactorytotheboard,thatsheorheisthesurvivingspouseandthedateofthemarriage,suchsurvivingspouseshallbedeemed,forthepurposesofthischapter,tohavebeennominatedasthebeneficiarybysuchmember.


§31458.3. Payment to member’s ex-spouse pursuant to court order; designation of beneficiary; termination upon death of member (Los Angeles)(a)Amember’sex-spousewhoisreceivingorisentitledtoreceivepaymentsfromthe

Article1,§31455.5.-§31458.3. 6

system,includingaportionofthesurvivingspouse’sallowance,pursuanttoanorderofthecourtdividingthecommunitypropertyinterestinthemember’sretirementallowancemaydesignateoneormorebeneficiarieswhoshallreceivethosepaymentsfollowingthedeathoftheex-spouse.Ifthereisnodesignatedbeneficiary,paymentshallbemadetotheestateoftheex-spouse.Thosepaymentsshallterminateuponthedeathofthememberorthesurvivingspouse.

(b)Thissectionappliesonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.

(AddedbyStats.1993,Ch.396(AB1659),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.1996,Ch.493(SB792),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2008,Ch.164(AB3044),Sec.1)

§31458.4. Member’s ex-spouse; payments pursuant to court order; designation of beneficiary; termination; operation of section(a)Amember’sex-spousewhoisreceivingorisentitledtoreceivepaymentsfromthe

system,includingaportionofthesurvivingspouse’sallowance,pursuanttoanorderofthecourtdividingthecommunitypropertyinterestinthemember’sretirementallowancemaydesignateoneormorebeneficiarieswhoshallreceivethosepaymentsfollowingthedeathoftheex-spouse.Ifthereisnodesignatedbeneficiary,paymentshallbemadetotheestateoftheex-spouse.Thosepaymentsshallterminateuponthedeathofthememberorthesurvivingspouse.

(b)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolution,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(AddedbyStats.1996,Ch.493(SB792),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2008,Ch.164(AB3044),Sec.2)

§31458.6. Note: (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 493 (SB 792), Sec. 3) was editorially reclassified as Government Code Sec. 31485.6.(AmendedandrenumberedbyStats.1998,Ch.132(SB2137),Sec.1asSec.31485.8)

§31459. “Board” defined(a)InacountyinwhichaboardofinvestmentshasbeenestablishedpursuanttoSection

31520.2:(1)AsusedinSections31453,31453.5,31454,31454.1,31454.5,31472,31588.1,31589.1,

31591,31592.3,31594,31595.1,31595.9,31596,31596.1,31601.1,31607,31611,31616,31625,31784,and31872,“board”meansaboardofinvestments.

(2)AsusedinthefirstparagraphofSection31592.2,“board”meansaboardofinvestments.

(3)Sections31510.4,31522,31523,31524,31525,31528,31529,31529.5,31595,31618,31680,and31680.1applytoboththeboardofretirementandboardofinvestments,and“board”meansboth“boardofretirement”and“boardofinvestments.”

(b)InArticle17(commencingwithSection31880),“board”meanstheBoardofAdministrationofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem.

(c)Inallothercases,“board”meanstheboardofretirement.(AmendedbyStats.1984,Ch.1738,Sec.3,EffectiveSeptember30,1984)(AmendedbyStats.2007,Ch.315(AB246),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2008,Ch.164(AB3044),Sec.3)

Article1,§31458.3.-§31459.7

§31459.1. Board (Los Angeles)(a)InacountyinwhichaboardofinvestmentshasbeenestablishedpursuanttoSection

31520.2:(1)AsusedinSections31453,31453.5,31454,31454.1,31454.5,31472,31588.1,31589.1,

31591,31592.3,31594,31595.1,31595.9,31596,31596.1,31601.1,31607,31610,31611,31612,31613,31616,31618,31621.11,31625,31639.26,31784,and31872,“board”meansboardofinvestments.

(2)AsusedinthefirstparagraphofSection31592.2andthefirstparagraphandsubdivision(c)ofthesecondparagraphofSection31595,“board”meansaboardofinvestments.

(3)Sections31521,31522,31522.1,31522.2,31523,31524,31525,31528,31529,31529.5,31535.1,31580.2,31614,31680,and31680.1,applytoboththeboardofretirementandboardofinvestments,and“board”meanseitherorboththeboardofretirementandboardofinvestments.

(4)Subdivision(a)ofSection31526andsubdivisions(a)and(b)ofthesecondparagraphofSection31595applytoboththeboardofretirementandboardofinvestments,and“board”meanseitherorboththeboardofretirementandboardofinvestments.

(b)InArticle17(commencingwithSection31880)ofthischapter,“board”meanstheBoardofAdministrationofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem.

(c)Inallothercases,“board”meanstheboardofretirement.(d)Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedinSection28020,

asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.

(AmendedbyStats.2011,Ch.48(SB637),Sec.1)

§31460. “Compensation” defined“Compensation”meanstheremunerationpaidincashoutofcountyordistrict

funds,plusanyamountdeductedfromamember’swagesforparticipationinadeferredcompensationplanestablishedpursuanttoChapter8(commencingwithSection18310)ofPart1ofDivision5ofTitle2orpursuanttoArticle1.1(commencingwithSection53212)ofChapter2ofPart1ofDivision2ofTitle5,butdoesnotincludethemonetaryvalueofboard,lodging,fuel,laundry,orotheradvantagesfurnishedtoamember.


§31461. “Compensation earnable” defined(a)“Compensationearnable”byamembermeanstheaveragecompensationas

determinedbytheboard,fortheperiodunderconsiderationuponthebasisoftheaveragenumberofdaysordinarilyworkedbypersonsinthesamegradeorclassofpositionsduringtheperiod,andatthesamerateofpay.Thecomputationforanyabsenceshallbebasedonthecompensationofthepositionheldbythememberatthebeginningoftheabsence.Compensation,asdefinedinSection31460,thathasbeendeferredshallbedeemed“compensationearnable”whenearned,ratherthanwhenpaid.

(b)“Compensationearnable”doesnotinclude,inanycase,thefollowing:(1)Anycompensationdeterminedbytheboardtohavebeenpaidtoenhancea

member’sretirementbenefitunderthatsystem.Thatcompensationmayinclude:(A)Compensationthathadpreviouslybeenprovidedinkindtothememberby

theemployerorpaiddirectlybytheemployertoathirdpartyotherthantheretirementsystemforthebenefitofthemember,andwhichwasconvertedtoandreceivedbythememberintheformofacashpaymentinthefinalaveragesalaryperiod.

(B)Anyone-timeoradhocpaymentmadetoamember,butnottoallsimilarly

Article1,§31459.1.-§31461. 8

situatedmembersinthemember’sgradeorclass.(C)Anypaymentthatismadesolelyduetotheterminationofthemember’s

employment,butisreceivedbythememberwhileemployed,exceptthosepaymentsthatdonotexceedwhatisearnedandpayableineach12-monthperiodduringthefinalaveragesalaryperiodregardlessofwhenreportedorpaid.

(2)Paymentsforunusedvacation,annualleave,personalleave,sickleave,orcompensatory time off, however denominated, whether paid in a lump sum or otherwise, in an amountthatexceedsthatwhichmaybeearnedandpayableineach12-monthperiodduringthefinalaveragesalaryperiod,regardlessofwhenreportedorpaid.

(3)Paymentsforadditionalservicesrenderedoutsideofnormalworkinghours,whetherpaidinalumpsumorotherwise.

(4)Paymentsmadeattheterminationofemployment,exceptthosepaymentsthatdonotexceedwhatisearnedandpayableineach12-monthperiodduringthefinalaveragesalaryperiod,regardlessofwhenreportedorpaid.

(c)Thetermsofsubdivision(b)areintendedtobeconsistentwithandnotinconflictwiththeholdingsinSalusv.SanDiegoCountyEmployeesRetirementAssociation(2004)117Cal.App.4th734andInreRetirementCases(2003)110Cal.App.4th426.

(AmendedbyStats.1993,Ch.396,Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.1995,Ch.558(SB226),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2012,Ch.297(AB197),Sec.2)

§31461.1. Counties of the first class; compensation; compensation earnable; operative effect; construction of section (Los Angeles)(a)Thissectionappliesonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,as

amendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.

(b)NotwithstandingSections31460and31461,neither“compensation”nor“compensationearnable”shallincludeanyofthefollowing:cafeteriaorflexiblebenefitplancontributions,transportationallowances,carallowances,orsecurityallowances,asenumeratedinaresolutionadoptedpursuanttosubdivision(c).

(c)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(d),thissectionshallnotbeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativewithrespecttoanyemployeewhobecomesamemberaftertheeffectivedateoftheresolution.

(d)Regardlessofwhetherithasactedpursuanttosubdivision(c),atanytimetheboardofsupervisors,byseparateresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,maymakethissectionoperativewithrespecttoanymembernotrepresentedbyacertifiedemployeeorganizationwhomakesanirrevocableelectiontobecomesubjecttothissection.

(e)Nothinginthissectionshallbeconstruedtoaffectanydeterminationmadebytheboardofretirement,pursuanttoSection31461,priortotheeffectivedateofthissection.

(f)Nothinginthissectionshallbeconstruedtoaffectthevalidityofanymemorandumofunderstandingorsimilaragreementthathasbeenexecutedpriortotheeffectivedateofthissection.

(AmendedbyStats.1993,Ch.396,Sec.4)(AmendedbyStats.1994,Ch.1100(SB2003),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.538(SB1852),Sec.303)

§31461.2. “Compensation earnable” defined“Compensationearnable”byapublicadministrator,coronerorcoroner-public

administratormembercompensatedbymeansoffeesmeanstheaveragecompensationasdeterminedbytheboard,fortheperiodunderconsideration,uponthebasisoftheaverage

Article1,§31461.-§31461.2.9

amountoffeesreceivedeachmonthbysuchmember.(AddedbyStats.1961,Ch.2095,Sec.1)

§31461.3. Members of state or county retirement system; average compensation(a)TheaveragecompensationduringanyperiodofserviceasamemberofthePublic

Employees’RetirementSystem,amemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,amemberoftheStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oramemberofaretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2shallbeconsideredcompensationearnablebyamemberforpurposesofcomputingfinalcompensationforthatmemberprovided:

(1)Theperiodinterveningbetweenactivemembershipsintherespectivesystemsdoesnotexceed90days,orsixmonthsifSection31840.4applies.

(2)Heorsheretiresconcurrentlyunderbothsystemsandiscreditedwiththatperiodofserviceundertheothersystematthetimeofretirement.

(b)ThissectionshallbeappliedretroactivelyunderthischapterinfavorofanymemberwhosemembershipinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemorinaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanycountyterminatedpriortoOctober1,1957,providedthatheorshewaseligibletoandelecteddeferredretirementthereinwithin90daysaftereligibilityforreciprocity,theperiodinterveningbetweenactivemembershipsintherespectivesystemsdidnotexceed90days,orsixmonthsifSection31840.4applies,andheorsheretiresconcurrentlyunderbothsystemsandiscreditedwiththatperiodofserviceundertheothersystematthetimeofretirement.Thelimitationofthe90-dayorsix-monthperiodbetweentheactivemembershipinthetworetirementsystemsshallnotapplytoanemployeewhoenteredtheemploymentinwhichheorshebecameamemberoftheStateEmployees’RetirementSystempriortoJuly18,1961;providedheorsheenteredthatemploymentwithin90days,orsixmonthsifSection31840.4applies,aftertheterminationofemploymentinthecountysystem,whetherthatemploymentiswiththestateorwithacounty,acity,orotherpublicagencythatcontractswiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,theStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oraretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2.

(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.966(AB2331),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2001,Ch.159(SB662),Sec.116)

§31461.4. Counties of the first class; cafeteria or flexible benefit plan contributions; compensation and compensation earnable (Los Angeles)(a)Thissectionappliesonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,as


(b)NotwithstandingSections31460and31461,neither“compensation”nor“compensationearnable”shallincludeanyincrease,madeonorafterJanuary1,1996,incafeteriaorflexiblebenefitplancontributionsforanymemberrepresentedbyacertifiedemployeeorganization,norshalltheyincludeanyincreaseincafeteriaorflexiblebenefitplancontributionsmadeonorafterJanuary1,1995,foranymembernotrepresentedbyacertifiedemployeeorganization,providedthatthenonrepresentedmemberwaivestheapplicabilityofSections31460and31461inwritingpriortoreceivinganycashpaymentbasedontheincrease.

(c)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinthecountyuntilthetimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissection

Article1,§31461.2.-§31461.4. 10

applicableinthecounty.(AddedbyStats.1999,Ch.7(AB288),Sec.1,EffectiveMarch24,1999)

§31461.45. Counties of the first class; compensation earnable; operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)Thissectionappliesonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020.(b)“Compensationearnable”inacountyofthefirstclassshallincludeonlythoseitems

ofremunerationspecificallyincludedasaresultofthecourtapprovedsettlementin(1)theconsolidatedcasesofLosAngelesCountyProfessionalPeaceOfficers’Association,etal.v.BoardofRetirement,LosAngelesCountyEmployees’RetirementAssociation(LosAngelesCountySuperiorCourtCaseNo.BS051355)andMiltonCohenv.BoardofRetirement,LosAngelesCountyEmployees’RetirementAssociation(LosAngelesCountySuperiorCourtCaseNo.BS051774),(2)thecaseofLosAngelesCountyFireDepartmentAssociationofChiefs,etal.v.BoardofRetirement,LosAngelesCountyEmployees’RetirementAssociation;CountyofLosAngeles(LosAngelesCountySuperiorCourtCaseNo.BS057432),and(3)thecaseofCecilBughv.BoardofRetirement,LosAngelesCountyEmployees’RetirementSystem(LosAngelesCountySuperiorCourtCaseNo.BS055611),allofwhichwereincludedinCoordinationProceedingSpecialTitle(Rule1550(b)),RetirementCases,JudicialCouncilCoordinationProceedingNo.4049,evenifafinaljudicialdeterminationinthatcoordinatedcase,oranysubsequentcase,shouldconcludethatanyadditionalitemofremunerationmustbeincludedinthatdefinitionwithrespecttoanyothercounty.Thoseitemsofremunerationinadditiontobasesalaryandthepensionableportion,ifany,ofcafeteriaplancontributions,aresetforthinResolutionNo.01-001,adoptedbytheBoardofRetirementonorbeforetheeffectivedateofthis section and shall include only the following: Earnings Code No. Title 099 PatrolStationRetentionBonus 358 TemporaryPromotionBonus 359 LifeguardParamedic,Catalina 503 UniformAllowance 504 NightShiftDifferential 505 Coroner’sInquestReporter 507 Co-GenerationorHydro-ElectricOpsandMtce 508 HenningerFlatsWatchman 509 FreezerWork 510 DepartmentHeadMerit 511 BoardofSupervisorsPerformanceLumpSum 512 FireSuppressionTransportationTruckDriver 514 BackhoeOperator 516 ExplosivesWork 517 EveningShiftDifferential 518 PowerEquipmentRepair,SnowConditions 519 EngineeringEmployees,HazardPay 520 HomeCareCompensation 522 CustodianActingAsWatchman 523 DPDDeputyDirectorRecruitmentIncentive 525 ContractingandProductivityImprovementIncentiveforManagers 528 WEBCOMPressOperator 529 PowerEquipmentOperator,FireSuppression 530 RNExtraWeekendsWorked

Article1,§31461.4.-§31461.45.11

531 Standby 532 AdditionalResponsibilitiesorExceptionalPerformance 533 PowerSweeperOperatorinEmergencyConditions 534 PowerPlantReliefEngineer 535 ClinicPhysician,FirstHourandOne-Half 536 ConsultingSpecialist,MD,&MentalHealthConsultant,MD,First andFifthHours 538 RNAssignedasActingorReliefChargeNurse 539 RNWeekendDifferential 540 ReliefNurseHolidayDifferential(HourlyItem) 541 ReliefNurseWeekendDifferential(HourlyItem) 544 AppraisersLaundryandDryCleaningAllowance 545 HeavyDutyTowTruckDriver 546 SlurrySealTruckDriver 547 LifeguardParamedic-Shift 548 LifeguardParamedic-Hourly 550 IncentiveAwardsForMedi-CalReimbursements,HealthServices 551 GroupIncentiveAward,TreasurerTaxCollector 553 PioneerExcavation,TunnelOperations,FireSuppressionandSnow Removal-ConstructionInspectionandSurveyingGroups 554 PioneerExcavation,TunnelOperations,FireSuppressionand SnowRemoval 555 ScaffoldorSwingStage,30FeetAboveGrade 556 HighScaleandRiggingOperations,General 557 EveningShift,MedTech 558 NightShift,MedTech 565 ParamedicRecertificationBonus 567 DeputySheriffReserveAnnualCompensation 570 HomeCareProgramStandby 571 CSWLicensureSupervision 572 MOULumpSumBonus 601 LifeguardParamedic,Relief 602 SupervisingTransportationDeputyPerformingDispatcherDuties 603 AutomotiveServiceExcellenceCertificates 604 RNMobileIntensiveCareCertification 605 CustodianFloorWaxingBonus 606 FireEquipmentMechanicAssignedFieldRepairDuties 607 SDPOAssignedActingDirectorInACamp 608 BilingualBonus 609 RNAssignedtoEmergencyRoom 610 AntelopeValleyFirefightingCrew 611 TreeTrimmerSupervisor,PowerOperations 612 ShootingBonus,Expert 613 ShootingBonus,DistinguishedExpert 614 ShootingBonus,Marksman 615 ShootingBonus,Sharpshooter 616 AntelopeValleyQuarters,OnFireCall

Earnings Code No. Title

Article1,§31461.45. 12

617 ClinicNurseAssignedtoProbationCamp 618 TransportationBusDriver,Sheriff 619 LifeguardParamedic 620 SanGabrielDamOperator 621 NurseRetentionIncentive 622 AdvancedAppraiserCertification 623 ProbationTranscriberTypistProductionIncentive 624 BilingualAdditionalBonusChildren’sSocialWorkers 625 AgricultureInspectorsAssignedtoStandardization 626 FirefighterParamedicnotAssignedtoaParamedicPost 628 BilingualBonusforOtherThanMonthlyEmployees 629 MortuaryAttendantatLAC/USCMC 630 SafetyPoliceEducational/LongevityIncentive 632 MentalHealthWorkersAssignedtoSheriff’sDetentionFacilities 634 SupervisingDetentionServicesOfficeroftheDay 635 TransportationDeputyBusDriver,Probation 636 Sheriff’sStationCommanderExpenses 637 ProfessionalDevelopmentExpenses 638 ProbationTelecomEquipmentBonus 639 InternHousingAllowanceLAC/USCMed.Center 640 Children’sServicesERCPRetention 641 ShootingBonus,Expert-Reserve 642 ShootingBonus,DistinguishedExpert-Reserve 643 ShootingBonus,Marksman-Reserve 644 ShootingBonus,Sharpshooter-Reserve 645 WelderCertificationBonus 782 FLSAPremiumPayforRegularlyScheduledWorkAssignment 903 Non-ElectiveLeaveBuyback 910 SickBuyback 911 VacationBuyback 912 HolidayBuyback 913 SickPre-71Buyback 914 SickBuyback-Probation56Hour 915 VacationBuyback-56Hour 930 SpecialPaidLeaveBuyback 931 AppraisersLeaveBuyback 932 Intern/ResidentLeaveBuyback None EmpSuggest None Park,Nontaxable None Park,Taxable None PriorSalary None TransportationAllow None TrafficMitigation

Anysuchadditionalitemofremunerationmaysubsequentlybeincludedin“compensationearnable”pursuanttoamemorandumofunderstandingbetweenacountyofthefirstclassandanyofitsrecognizedemployeeorganizationsoraresolutionadoptedbyits

Earnings Code No. Title

Article1,§31461.45.13

boardofsupervisors.(c)Noitemofremunerationincludedin“compensationearnable”asaresultofthe

court-approvedsettlementandassetforthintheresolutiondescribedaboveinsubdivision(b)mayberemovedtherefromasaresultofanysubsequentjudicialdetermination,exceptthatacountyofthefirstclassandarecognizedemployeeorganizationmayagreeonlythroughamemorandumofunderstandingtoexcludetheitemofremunerationfrom“compensationearnable”ortheBoardofSupervisorsmayadoptaresolutionexcludingtheitemofremunerationfrom“compensationearnable”withrespecttononrepresentedemployees.

(d)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinthecountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makestheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(AddedbyStats.2001,Ch.778(AB399),Sec.1,EffectiveOctober13,2001,asanurgencystatute)

§31461.5. Executive and Unclassified Management Operational Incentive Plan; exclusion from retirement benefitsNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,salarybonusesoranyothercompensation

incentive payments for regular duties or for additional services outside regular duties received undertheprogramknownonApril1,1997,astheExecutiveandUnclassifiedManagementOperationalIncentivePlanoranysuccessorprogramthatissubstantiallysimilarbyanymemberswhoareinpositionsidentifiedasexecutiveorunclassifiedmanagementshallbeexcludedfromallretirementbenefitcalculations.


§31461.6. "Compensation earnable" defined(a)“Compensationearnable”shallnotincludeovertimepremiumpayotherthan

premiumpayforhoursworkedwithinthenormallyscheduledorregularworkinghoursthatareinexcessofthestatutorymaximumworkweekorworkperiodapplicabletotheemployeeunderSection201andfollowingofTitle29oftheUnitedStatesCode.

(b)ThissectionshallnotapplytoamemberwhoissubjecttotheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013.

(AddedbyStats.2000,Ch.966(AB2331),Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.6)

§31462. "Final Compensation" defined(a)“Finalcompensation”meanstheaverageannualcompensationearnablebya

memberduringanythreeyearselectedbyamemberatorbeforethetimeheorshefilesanapplication for retirement, or, if he or she fails to elect, during the three years immediately precedinghisorherretirement.Ifamemberhaslessthanthreeyearsofservice,hisorherfinalcompensationshallbedeterminedbydividinghisorhertotalcompensationbythenumberofmonthsofservicecreditedtohimorherandmultiplyingby12.

(b)ThissectionshallnotapplytoamemberwhoissubjecttotheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013foralloranyportionofhisorhermembershipinthecountyretirementsystem.

(AmendedbyStats.1969,Ch.416,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.7)

§31462.05. Determination of "final compensation"ForamemberwhoissubjecttotheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReform

Article1,§31461.45.-§31462.05. 14

Actof2013foralloranyportionofhisorhermembershipinthecountyretirementsystem,“finalcompensation”asdefinedinSection7522.32shallapply.Ifamemberhaslessthanthreeyearsofservice,thatmember’sfinalcompensationshallbedeterminedbydividingthetotalcompensationbythenumberofmonthsofservicecreditedtothememberandmultiplyingby12.


§31462.1. "Final compensation" based on compensation for one year; adoption by counties(a)(1)“Finalcompensation”meanstheaverageannualcompensationearnableby

amemberduringanyyearelectedbyamemberatorbeforethetimeheorshefilesanapplication for retirement, or, if he or she fails to elect, during the year immediately preceding hisorherretirement.

(2)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.

(b)ThissectionshallnotapplytoamemberwhoissubjecttotheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013foralloranyportionofhisorhermembershipinthecountyretirementsystem.


§31462.11. Recalculation of allowances based on compensation for one year; prospective application; resolution by boardInanycountysubjecttotheprovisionsofSection31462.1,everyretirementallowance,

optionaldeathallowances,orannualdeathallowance,payabletooronaccountofanymember,grantedpriortotheeffectivedateofSection31462.1insuchcounty,shallberecalculatedasthoughSection31462.1hadbeeninforceinsuchcountyontheeffectivedateofsuchallowance.

Anyincreasedallowancesresultingfromsuchrecalculationshallbepayableonlyprospectivelyonandaftertheoperativedateofthissectioninthatcounty.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31462.2. "Final compensation" defined as used in relation to intermittent members(a)“Finalcompensation”formemberswhoseserviceisonatenurethatistemporary,

seasonal,intermittent,orforparttimeonlymeansone-thirdofthetotalcompensationearnedforthatperiodoftimeduringwhichthememberrenderedtheequivalentofthreeyearsoffull-timeservice.

(b)Themembermayelectatorbeforethetimeheorshefilesanapplicationforretirement the period of time during which he or she has earned three full years of credit upon whichfinalcompensationshallbecalculated.Ifheorshedoesnotsoelect,suchperiodoftimeimmediatelyprecedinghisorherretirementshallbeused.

(c)Thissectionappliestoamembermeetingtheconditionsspecifiedinsubdivision(a),whoseserviceisdescribedinsubdivision(a),andwhoissubjecttotheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013.


Article1,§31462.05.-§31462.2.15

§31462.3. Members participating in designated plans who are employed by County of Los Angeles on or after October 1, 2000; final compensation; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)FormembersparticipatinginthedesignatedplanswhoareemployedbytheCounty

ofLosAngelesonorafterOctober1,2000,andwhoretireordieonorafterJuly1,2001,“finalcompensation”meanstheaverageannualcompensationearnablebyamemberduringanyyearelectedbythememberatorbeforethetimeheorshefilesanapplicationforretirementor,ifthememberfailstoelect,duringtheyearimmediatelyprecedinghisorherretirement.

(b)Asusedinthissection,the“designatedplans”meanstheretirementplanssponsoredbytheCountyofLosAngelesthatarecommonlyknownasRetirementPlansB,C,andDforgeneralmembersandRetirementPlanBforsafetymembers.

(c)ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoLosAngelesCountyandshallnotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyelects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperative.

(AddedbyStats.2001,Ch.778(AB399),Sec.1.5,EffectiveOctober13,2001,asanurgency statute)

§31463. “Normal contributions” defined“Normalcontributions”meanscontributionsbyamemberatthenormalratesof

contributions,butdoesnotincludeadditionalcontributionsbyamember.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31464. “Accumulated normal contributions” defined“Accumulatednormalcontributions”meansthesumofallnormalcontributions

standingtothecreditofamember’sindividualaccountandregularinterestthereon.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31465. “Additional contributions” defined“Additionalcontributions”meanscontributionsmadebymembersinadditionto

normalcontributionsunderSections31504and31627.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31466. “Accumulated additional contributions” defined“Accumulatedadditionalcontributions”meansthesumofalladditionalcontributions

standingtothecreditofamember’sindividualaccountandregularinterestthereon.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31467. “Accumulated contributions” defined“Accumulatedcontributions”meansaccumulatednormalcontributionsplusany

accumulatedadditionalcontributionsstandingtothecreditofamember’saccount.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31468. “District”(a)“District”meansadistrict,formedunderthelawsofthestate,locatedwhollyor

partiallywithinthecountyotherthanaschooldistrict.(b)“District”alsoincludesanyinstitutionoperatedbytwoormorecounties,inoneof

whichtherehasbeenadoptedanordinanceplacingthischapterinoperation.(c)“District”alsoincludesanyorganizationorassociationauthorizedbyChapter26

oftheStatutesof1935,asamendedbyChapter30oftheStatutesof1941,orbySection50024,

Article1,§31462.3.-§31468. 16

whichorganizationorassociationismaintainedandsupportedentirelyfromfundsderivedfromcounties,andtheboardofanyretirementsystemisauthorizedtoreceivetheofficersandemployeesofthatorganizationorassociationintotheretirementsystemmanagedbytheboard.

(d)“District”alsoincludes,butisnotlimitedto,anysanitarydistrictformedunder Part1(commencingwithSection6400)ofDivision6oftheHealthandSafetyCode.

(e)“District”alsoincludesanycity,publicauthority,publicagency,andanyotherpoliticalsubdivisionorpubliccorporationformedorcreatedundertheconstitutionorlawsofthisstateandlocatedorhavingjurisdictionwhollyorpartiallywithinthecounty.

(f)“District”alsoincludesanynonprofitcorporationorassociationconductinganagriculturalfairforthecountypursuanttoacontractbetweenthecorporationorassociationandtheboardofsupervisorsundertheauthorityofSection25905.

(g)“District”alsoincludestheRegentsoftheUniversityofCalifornia,butwithrespectonlytoemployeeswhowereemployeesofacountyinacountyhospital,whobecameuniversity employees pursuant to an agreement for transfer to the regents of a county hospital oroftheobligationtoprovideprofessionalmedicalservicesatacountyhospital,andwhounderthatagreementhadtherightanddidelecttocontinuemembershipinthecounty’sretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapter.

(h)“District”alsoincludestheSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrict,anewpublicagencycreatedonFebruary1,1977,pursuanttoChapter5.5(commencingwithSection40400)ofPart3ofDivision26oftheHealthandSafetyCode.

(1)EmployeesoftheSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrictshallbedeemedtobeemployeesofanewpublicagencyoccupyingnewpositionsonFebruary1,1977.Onthatdate,thosenewpositionsaredeemednottohavebeencoveredbyanyretirementsystem.

(2)NoretirementsystemcoveragemaybeeffectedforanemployeeoftheSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrictwhocommencedemploymentwiththedistrictduringtheperiodcommencingonFebruary1,1977,andendingonDecember31,1978,unlessanduntiltheemployeeshallhaveelectedwhethertobecomeamemberoftheretirementassociationestablishedinaccordancewiththischapterforemployeesofLosAngelesCountyortheretirementassociationestablishedinaccordancewiththischapterforemployeesofSanBernardinoCounty.TheelectionshalloccurbeforeJanuary1,1980.AnyemployeewhofailstomaketheelectionprovidedforhereinshallbedeemedtohaveelectedtobecomeamemberoftheretirementassociationestablishedinaccordancewiththischapterfortheCountyofLosAngeles.

(3)TheSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrictshallmakeapplicationtotheretirementassociationsestablishedinaccordancewiththischapterforemployeesofLosAngelesCountyandSanBernardinoCountyforcoverageofemployeesoftheSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrict.

(4)AnemployeeoftheSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrictwhocommencedemploymentwiththedistrictduringtheperiodcommencingonFebruary1,1977,andendingonDecember31,1978,andwhohasnotterminatedemploymentbeforeJanuary1,1980,shallbecoveredbytheretirementassociationelectedbytheemployeepursuanttoparagraph(2).Thatcoverageshallbeeffectednolaterthanthefirstdayofthefirstmonthfollowingthedateoftheelectionprovidedforinparagraph(2).

(5)EachelectingemployeeshallreceivecreditforallservicewiththeSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrict.However,theelectedretirementassociationmayrequire,asaprerequisitetograntingthatcredit,thepaymentofanappropriatesumofmoneyorthetransferoffundsfromanotherretirementassociationinanamountdeterminedbyanenrolledactuaryandapprovedbytheelectedretirementassociation’sboard.Theamounttobepaidshallincludealladministrativeandactuarialcostsofmakingthatdetermination.Theamount

Article1,§31468.17

tobepaidshallbesharedbytheSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrictandtheemployee.Thesharetobepaidbytheemployeeshallbedeterminedbygoodfaithbargainingbetweenthedistrictandtherecognizedemployeeorganization,butinnoeventshalltheemployeeberequiredtocontributemorethan25percentofthetotalamountrequiredtobepaid.Theelectedretirementassociation’sboardmaynotgrantthatcreditforthatpriorserviceunlesstherequestforthatcreditismadeto,andtherequiredpaymentdepositedwith,theelectedretirementassociation’sboardnoearlierthanJanuary1,1980,andnolaterthanJune30,1980.Theforegoingshallhavenoeffectonanyemployee’srightstoreciprocalbenefitsunderArticle15(commencingwithSection31830).

(6)AnemployeeoftheSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrictwhocommencedemploymentwiththedistrictafterDecember31,1978,shallbecoveredbytheretirementassociationestablishedinaccordancewiththischapterforemployeesofSanBernardinoCounty.Thatcoverageshallbeeffectedasofthefirstdayofthefirstmonthfollowingtheemployee’scommencementdate.

(7)Notwithstandingparagraphs(2)and(4)above,employeesoftheSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrictwhowereemployedbetweenFebruary1,1977,andDecember31,1978,andwhoterminatetheiremploymentbetweenFebruary1,1977,andJanuary1,1980,shallbedeemedtobemembersoftheretirementassociationestablishedinaccordancewiththischapterfortheemployeesofLosAngelesCountycommencingonthedateoftheiremploymentwiththeSouthCoastAirQualityManagementDistrict.

(i)“District”alsoincludesanynonprofitcorporationthatoperatesoneormoremuseumswithinacountyofthe15thclass,asdescribedbySections28020and28036oftheGovernmentCode,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,pursuanttoacontractbetweenthecorporationandtheboardofsupervisorsofthecounty,andthathasenteredintoanagreementwiththeboardandthecountysettingforththetermsandconditionsofthecorporation’sinclusioninthecounty’sretirementsystem.

(j)“District”alsoincludesanyeconomicdevelopmentassociationfundedinwholeorinpartbyacountyofthe15thclass,asdescribedbySections28020and28036oftheGovernmentCode,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andthathasenteredintoanagreementwiththeboardofsupervisorsandthecountysettingforththetermsandconditionsoftheassociation’sinclusioninthecounty’sretirementsystem.

(k)“District”alsoincludesanyspecialcommissionestablishedintheCountiesofTulareandSanJoaquinasdescribedbySection14087.31oftheWelfareandInstitutionsCode,pursuanttoacontractbetweenthespecialcommissionandthecountysettingforththetermsandconditionsofthespecialcommission’sinclusioninthecounty’sretirementsystemwiththeapprovaloftheboardofsupervisorsandtheboardofretirement.

(l)(1)“District”alsoincludestheretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinOrangeCounty.

(2)“District”alsoincludestheretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinSanBernardinoCountyatsuchtimeastheboardofretirement,byresolution,makesthissectionapplicableinthatcounty.

(AmendedbyStats.1994,Ch.652,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2002,Ch.74(AB1992),Sec.1,EffectiveJune27,2002,asan

urgency statute)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.369(SB777),Sec.1)

§31469. “Employee” defined(a)“Employee”meansanyofficerorotherpersonemployedbyacountywhose

compensationisfixedbytheboardofsupervisorsorbystatuteandwhosecompensationispaidbythecounty,andanyofficerorotherpersonemployedbyanydistrictwithinthecounty.

Article1,§31468.-§31469. 18

(b)“Employee”includesanyofficerorattacheofanysuperiorcourtthathasbeenbroughtwithintheoperationofthischapter.

(c)“Employee”includesanyofficerorotherpersonemployedbyadistrictasdefinedinsubdivision(c)ofSection31468andwhosecompensationispaidfromfundsofthedistrict.

(d)“Employee”includesanymemberpaidfromthecountyschoolservicefundwhoelectedpursuanttoSection1313oftheEducationCodetoremainamemberofthissystem.

(e)“Employee”includesanypersonpermanentlyemployedbyalocalagencyformationcommissionincludingtheexecutiveofficerthereof.

(AmendedbyStats.1968,Ch.1261,Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.1998,Ch.931(SB2139),Sec.213,EffectiveSeptember28,1998)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.538(SB1852),Sec.304)

§31469.1. County peace officer defined(a)“Countypeaceofficer”meansthesheriffandanyofficeroremployeeofthesheriff’s

officeofacountyemployedandqualifyingasaconstableordeputyconstableormarshalordeputymarshalordeputysherifforequalorhigherrank,irrespectiveofthedutiestowhichthatpersonmaybeassigned,excepting,however,thoseemployeeswhoseprincipaldutiesarethoseofatelephoneoperator,clerk,stenographer,machinistormechanic.

(b)AnyotherprovisionintheGovernmentCodetothecontrarynotwithstanding,“countypeaceofficer”shallalsoincludeandmeananyinspectors,detectivesandinvestigatorsemployedbythedistrictattorney,whoseprincipaldutiesaretoinvestigatecrimeandcriminalcasesandtoreceiveregularcompensationforthatservice.

(c)“Countypeaceofficer”doesnotincludealocalprosecutor,localpublicdefender,orlocalpublicdefenderinvestigator,asdefinedinSection31469.2.


§31469.2. “Local prosecutor,” “local public defender,” “local public defender investigator,” defined(a)Forpurposesofthischapter,“localprosecutor”meansanyoneofthefollowing:

(1)Acountyofficeroremployeewhomeetsallofthefollowingcriteria:(A)Heorsheisor,onorafterJanuary1,2002,wasemployedintheofficeofthe

districtattorney.(B)Hisorherjobclassificationisor,onorafterJanuary1,2002,wasdistrict

attorney, deputy district attorney, chief deputy district attorney, senior deputy district attorney, assistant district attorney, chief assistant district attorney, senior assistant district attorney, or anyothersimilarclassificationortitle.

(C)HisorhereffectivedateofretirementisonorafterthedateSection31470.14becomesapplicableinthecounty.

(2)Acountyofficeroremployeewhomeetsallofthefollowingcriteria:(A)Heorshewasemployedintheofficeofadistrictattorneypriortothe

date the local child support agency transitioned from the district attorney to a new county department,asspecifiedinSection17304oftheFamilyCode.

(B)Hisorherjobclassificationwasdistrictattorney,deputydistrictattorney,chief deputy district attorney, senior deputy district attorney, assistant district attorney, chief assistantdistrictattorney,seniorassistantdistrictattorney,oranyothersimilarclassificationortitle.

(C)Heorsheisor,onorafterJanuary1,2002,wasanattorneyinalocalchildsupportagency,asdefinedinsubdivision(h)ofSection17000oftheFamilyCode,withno

Article1,§31469.-§31469.2.19

breakinservicebetweenemploymentbyadistrictattorneyandthelocalchildsupportagency.(D)HisorhereffectivedateofretirementisonorafterthedateSection31470.14

becomesapplicableinthecounty.(3)Acityofficeroremployeewhomeetsallofthefollowingcriteria:

(A)Heorsheisor,onorafterJanuary1,2002,wasemployedintheofficeofthecityattorney.

(B)Heorsheisor,onorafterJanuary1,2002,wasprimarilyengagedintheactiveenforcementofcriminallawswithinanycourtoperatinginacounty.

(C)Hisorherjobclassificationisor,onorafterJanuary1,2002,wascityattorney,deputy city attorney, chief deputy city attorney, assistant city attorney, chief assistant city attorney,oranyothersimilarclassificationortitle.

(D)HisorhereffectivedateorretirementisonorafterthedateSection31470.14becomesapplicableinthecounty.

(b)Forpurposesofthischapter,“localpublicdefender”meansacityorcountyofficeroremployee who meets all of the following criteria:

(1)Heorsheisor,onorafterJanuary1,2002,wasemployedintheofficeofthepublicdefender,thealternatepublicdefender,oranysimilarofficetitle.

(2)Hisorherjobclassificationisor,onJanuary1,2002,waspublicdefender,deputypublicdefender,chiefdeputypublicdefender,seniordeputypublicdefender,assistantpublicdefender,chiefassistantpublicdefender,seniorassistantpublicdefender,oranyothersimilarclassificationortitle.

(3)HisorhereffectivedateofretirementisonorafterthedateSection31470.14becomesapplicableinthecounty.

(c)Forpurposesofthischapter,“localpublicdefenderinvestigator”meansacityorcountyofficeroremployeewhomeetsallofthefollowingcriteria:

(1)Heorsheisor,onorafterJanuary1,2002,wasemployedintheofficeofthepublicdefender,thealternatepublicdefender,oranyothersimilarofficetitle.

(2)Hisorherjobclassificationisor,onorafterJanuary1,2002,wasinspector,investigator,detective,oranyothersimilarclassificationortitle.

(3)Hisorherprincipaldutiesareor,onorafterJanuary1,2002,weretoinvestigatecrimeandcriminalstatutes.

(4)HisorhereffectivedateofretirementisonorafterthedateSection31470.14becomesapplicableinthecounty.


§31469.3. “Safety member” definedSafetymembermeansanypersonwhoisanyofthefollowing:(a)AmemberofapensionsystemestablishedpursuanttoeitherChapter4orChapter5,

whoelectsbywrittennoticefiledwiththeboard,tobecomeasafetymember.(b)Anypersonemployedbyacounty,subjecttoSection31676.1or31695.1orbya

districtorcourtorganizedorexistingwithinsuchacounty,whoseprincipaldutiesconsistofactivelawenforcementoractivefiresuppressionasdescribedinSection31470.2and31470.4,oractivelifeguardserviceaslimitedbySection31470.6orjuvenilehallgroupcounselingandgroupsupervisionifadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsasprovidedinSection31469.4.

(c)AnypersondescribedinSection31469.2inanycountyinwhichSection31470.14hasbecomeoperative.

(AddedbyStats.1951,Ch.1098,Sec.4)(AmendedbyStats.1970,Ch.396,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2002,Ch.1152(AB2023),Sec.10)

Article1,§31469.2.-§31469.3. 20

§31469.4. Juvenile hall group counselors and group supervisors as safety members“Safetymember”meanspersonsemployedasprobationofficers,juvenilehallor

juvenilehomegroupcounselors,andgroupsupervisorswhoareprimarilyengagedinthecontrolandcustodyofdelinquentyouthswhomustbedetainedunderphysicalsecurityinordernottobeharmfultothemselvesorothers.

Theprovisionsofthissectionshallnotbeapplicableinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisorsbyresolutionmaketheprovisionsapplicable.


§31469.5. Counties of 10th class; optional safety status for probation officers; application (San Mateo)(a)Thissectionshallbeapplicableintheretirementsystemofanycountyofthe10th

class,asdefinedbySections28020and28031,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,iftheboardofsupervisorsexecutesamemorandumofunderstandingwiththeemployeerepresentativesandadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingforsafetystatusforprobationofficers,asprovidedinSection31469.4.

(b)ThepurposeofthissectionistoprovideoptionalsafetystatusforprobationofficersemployedonorbeforeMarch1,1991.NotwithstandingSection31558.6,thatoptionshallbeexercisedwithin120daysfromtheeffectivedateoftheimplementationofSection31469.4,togetherwiththeoptiontoreceivecreditasasafetymemberforallorpartofthetimeduringwhichhisorherdutieswouldhavemadehimorhereligibletobecomeasafetymember,ifthissectionhadthenbeenineffect.

(c)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection,theretirementbenefitsofexistingprobationofficerswhoelecttotransferfromgeneralmembershipinthecountyretirementsystemtosafetymembershipshallbeimplementedpursuanttoSection31484.5,exceptthat:

(1)ThedefinitionoffinalcompensationinSection31462.1shallnolongerapplytoprobationofficerselectingsafetystatus;instead,thedefinitionoffinalcompensationinSection31462shallapplyatthedateofretirementtoallcreditedsafetyserviceregardlessofpreviousserviceunderSection31462.1.However,theboardofsupervisorsmayadoptaresolutionprovidingthatthedefinitionoffinalcompensationcontainedinSection31462.1shallapplytocertainprobationofficerselectingsafetystatuswhoarespecificallyidentifiedintheresolutionandwhoareretiringonorafterthedatespecifiedintheresolution.

(2)Foremployeesentitledtoacost-of-livingadjustmentuponretirement,Article16.5(commencingwithSection31870)shallapply,exceptthattheincreaseintheallowanceshallnotexceedamaximumamountof3percentinanygivenyearcreditedassafetymembership.AnemployeewhoelectssafetyretirementunderSection31469.4andwhotherebywaiveshisorherentitlementtoahighercost-of-livingallowanceshallbedeemedtohavewaivedthehighercost-of-livingallowancewithregardtoallpreviousservicecreditedassafetyserviceatthedateofretirement,regardlessofpreviousserviceunderanyotherprovisionandshallbedeemedtohaverelinquishedanyrighttothehighercost-of-livingallowancewithoutrefundofcontributionstherefore,exceptasdeterminedbytheboardofsupervisors.

(3)AnemployeewhoelectssafetyretirementunderSection31469.4mayelecttoreceivecreditasasafetymemberforallorpartofthetimeduringwhichhisorherdutieswouldhavemadehimorhereligibletobecomeasafetymemberifthissectionhadthenbeenineffectasprovidedinSection31639.7,exceptthatanelectiontoreceivepartcreditmaybeexercisedonlyinmultiplesoffiveyearsofservice.Amemberwhoelectstoreceivecreditforonly a part of that county service shall elect that county service latest in time and may not receive credit for any portion of county service prior in time to any county service for which he orshedoesnotelecttoreceivecredit.

(4)Amembernotpreviouslywithinthesafetymembershipcategorywhoelectsto

Article1,§31469.4.-§31469.5.21

receivecreditforallorpartofthetimeduringwhichthemember’sdutieswouldhavemadehimorhereligibletobecomeasafetymemberifthissectionhadthenbeenineffectshallpayintotheretirementsystemtheamountthatwouldhavehadtobecontributedbytheemployertofundtheemployer’sliabilityforsafetymembershipandanamountequaltothedifferencebetweentheemployee’scontributionsactuallymadeduringthetimeforwhichheorsheclaimscreditandthecontributionsthememberwouldhavemadeduringthatperiodifheorshehadbeeninsafetystatusduringthatperiod.

(d)AllprobationofficersinTierIIIwhoelecttotransferfromgeneralmembershipinthecountyretirementsystemtosafetymembershippursuanttothissectionshallbeplacedinTierIIregardlessoftheirstatuspriortoselectingTierIIIbenefits.

(e)AllpersonshiredaftertheeffectivedateofimplementationofSection31469.4shall,uponretirement,havehisorhercost-of-livingallowanceandfinalcompensationcomputedinaccordancewiththissection.

(AddedbyStats.1991,Ch.344,Sec.1,EffectiveAugust6,1991,ApplicableasofMarch1,1991,pursuanttoSec.3ofCh.344)

(AmendedbyStats.1999,Ch.116(AB947),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.135(AB2539),Sec.78)

§31469.6. Law enforcement employees of harbor improvement district as safety membersLawenforcementemployeesofaharborimprovementdistrictaresafetymembers

subjecttoArticle6.8(commencingwithSection31639)andArticle7.5(commencingwithSection31662)ofthischapter,andtosuchotherprovisionsofthischapterasapplytosafetymembers.


§31469.8. County of 18th class; agreement to extend safety status to specified employees; conditions (Marin)(a)Inacountyofthe18thclass,asdefinedbySections28020and28039,asamendedby

Chapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,theboardofsupervisorsmaymeetandconferpursuanttotheMeyers-Milias-BrownAct(Chapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1)witharecognizedemployeeorganizationthatrepresentscountyemployeeswhoarenotsafetymembersbecausetheboardofsupervisorshasnotmadeSection31469.4applicableinthecounty,andendeavortoreachagreementonanyconditionstoberequiredofemployeesoranemployeeorganizationseekingtohaveSection31469.4madeapplicable.Theconditionsshallinclude,butnotbelimitedto,whethertheemployeesshallberequiredtopayallorpartof the following:

(1)Theincreaseintheemployer’snormalcostcontributions.(2)Anyincreaseoftheemployer’sunfundedactuarialaccruedliabilityinexcessof

whatitwouldhaveaccruediftheemployeeshadremainedmiscellaneousmembers.(3)Anyincreaseintheemployer’snormalcostcontributionsorunfundedactuarial

liabilityattributabletoemployeeswhohavebecomesafetymemberselectingtopurchasecreditasasafetymemberpursuanttoSection31639.7forthetimeservedinaneligiblepositionpriortobecomingasafetymember.

(b)Anypaymentsmadebyemployeesonbehalfoftheemployertocovertheincreasedcostofsafetyretirementshallbeasdetermineduponactuarialadvicefromtheretirementboard’sactuaries,andshallbeapprovedbytheboardofretirement.

(c)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinthecountyuntilthedateonwhichtheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makestheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinthecounty.


Article1,§31469.5.-§31469.8. 22

§31470. “Member” defined“Member”meansanypersonincludedinthemembershipoftheretirementassociation

pursuanttoArticle4,andincludessafetymembersasdefinedinSections31469.3,31470.2,31470.4and31470.6,oranypersonwhohaselectedinwritingtocomewithintheprovisionsofArticle9.


§31470.1. “Member” as including “county peace officer member,” application of special provisions“Member”includes“countypeaceofficermember”exceptinsectionswherecounty

peaceofficermembersarespecificallyexcluded.Anythingelseinthisacttothecontrarynotwithstanding,wherethereisaconflictwiththespecialprovisionspertainingtocountypeaceofficermemberssaidspecialprovisionsshallapply.


§31470.2. Persons eligible (All, San Diego, Sacramento)(a)Allsheriffs,undersheriffs,chiefdeputiessheriff,jailers,turnkeys,deputiessheriff,

bailiffs,constables,deputiesconstable,motorcycleofficers,aircraftpilots,headsandassistantheadsofalldivisionsoftheofficeofthesheriff,detectivesandinvestigatorsintheofficeofthedistrictattorney,marshals,courtserviceofficersonlyinacountyofthethirdclass,asdefinedinSections28020and28024,andallregularlyappointeddeputymarshalsareeligible.

(b)Inacountyoftheeighthclass,asdefinedinSections28020and28029,bothasamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,allpeaceofficersintheParkRangerclassseriesintheDepartmentofRegionalParks,Recreation,andOpenSpaceareeligible.Thissubdivisionshallnotbeoperativeuntilsuchtimeasthecountyboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makethissubdivisionapplicableinthecounty.

(c)Localprosecutors,localpublicdefenders,andlocalpublicdefenderinvestigatorsareeligibleifthecountyboardofsupervisorsadoptsaresolutionbyamajorityvotemakingthissubdivisionandSection31470.14applicableinthecounty.


§31470.25. Orange County; safety membership for specified law enforcement personnel (Orange)(a)Allsheriffs,undersheriffs,assistantsheriffs,chiefdeputysheriffs,captains,

lieutenants,sergeants,jailers,turnkeys,deputysheriffs,bailiffs,constables,deputyconstables,motorcycleofficers,aircraftpilots,detectives,andinvestigatorsintheofficeofthedistrictattorney,andmarshalsandallregularlyappointeddeputymarshals,whoarefirstsoemployedonoraftertheoperativedateofthissectioninacounty,areeligible.ThissectionisanalternativetoSection31470.2.

(b)Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthesecondclass,asdefinedbySections28020and28023,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971.

(c)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinacountyunlessanduntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativeinthatcounty.

(AddedbyStats.1991,Ch.593,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.538(SB1852),Sec.305)

Article1,§31470.-§31470.25.23

§31470.3. Persons ineligible (All, San Diego)Clerks,bookkeepers,stenographers,courtserviceofficers,exceptinacountyofthe

thirdclass,asdefinedinSections28020and28024,andotheremployeeswhomayhavebeenappointedasdeputiessheriffordeputiesmarshalbutwhodonotperformthedutiesofanypeaceofficersenumeratedandhonorarydeputiessherifforotherpersonsholdingappointments as deputies sheriff who receive no compensation therefor who do not regularly performofficialdutiesandthosewhoseprincipaldutiesclearlydonotfallwithinthescopeofactivelawenforcement,eventhoughsuchapersonissubjecttooccasionalcall,orisoccasionally called upon to perform duties within the scope of active law enforcement are ineligible.

(AmendedbyStats.1982,Ch.1582,Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.1998,Ch.918(AB2406),Sec.2,EffectiveSeptember28,1998)

§31470.4. Persons eligibleAllcountyforesters,countyfirewardens,deputiesorassistantcountyforesters,

deputiesorassistantcountyfirewardens,firefighters,fireapparatusengineers,firepreventioninspectors,forestfiremen,firepatrolmen,aircraftpilots,andforemenassignedtofiresuppressioncrews,allotherpersonnelassignedtoactivefiresuppressioninanycountyforester’sorcountyfirewarden’sdepartmentandallofficers,engineers,andfiremenofanycountyfireprotectiondistrict,andallotherpersonnelassignedtoactivefiresuppressioninanycountyfireprotectiondistrictareeligible.


§31470.5. Persons ineligibleBookkeepers,stenographers,cooks,laborers,countyfireprotectiondistrictfireforemen,

callfiremen,andfirefighterswhoseprincipaldutiesclearlydonotfallwithinthescopeofactivefiresuppression,eventhoughthepersonissubjecttooccasionalcall,orisoccasionallycalledupon,toperformdutieswithinthescopeofactivefiresuppression,andvolunteeremployees,honorarydeputycountyforesters,honorarydeputycountyfirewardens,andvoluntaryfirewardensholdingappointmentsassuchwhoreceivenocompensationthereforandwhodonotregularlyperformofficialduties,areineligible.


§31470.6. Counties exceeding 500,000; permanent employees engaged in active law enforcement (Various)(a)Apermanentemployeeofacountyhavingapopulationinexcessof500,000whose

principal duties consist of active protection, rescue, and rendition of aid or assistance to personsinjuredorimperiledinwaterareasatbeachesandlakes,streams,dams,reservoirs,orotherbodiesofopenwater(notincludingswimmingpools)orinsmallcraftorairplanesatseaneartheshorelineandtherecoveryfromwaterareasofsubmergedobjectsandbodiesofpersonsdrownedorbelievedtohavedrownedinthoseareas,ortheimmediatesupervisionthereof, including persons employed to perform the duties now performed under the titles of directorofbeaches,assistantdirectorofbeaches,deputydirectorofbeaches,chieflifeguard,assistantchieflifeguard,captainlifeguards,lieutenantrescueboat,lieutenantlifeguards,beachlifeguard,butwhoperformsadditionalduties,someofwhich(includingthemaintenanceofpeaceandorderandtheapprehensionoflawviolators)arecustomarilyperformedbypoliceorpeaceofficers,andwhoseotherduties(suchasresuscitationworkinvolvingtheuseofspecialequipmentincaseshavingnoconnectionwiththeirprincipalduties)whichinotherareasarecustomarilyperformedbyfiremen,andotherandfurtherduties(suchastherescue

Article1,§31470.3.-§31470.6. 24

ofpersonsfromdisabledaircraftandsmallboatsininshoreorinlandwatersandtheremovalofdangerousobstructionsfromwaters)whichdonotcomedirectlywithinanyoftheaforesaidclassificationsbutareessentialtothesafetyandsecurityofthepublic,excludingthosewhoseprincipaldutiesarethoseofatelephoneoperator,clerk,stenographer,machinist,mechanic,orotherwise clearly do not fall within the scope of active lifeguarding or lifesaving service, even thoughapersonissubjecttooccasionalcall,orisoccasionallycalledupon,toperformdutieswithinthescopeofactivelifeguardingorlifesavingservice,shallbeconsideredandisherebyclassifiedasanemployeewhoseprincipaldutiesconsistin“activelawenforcement.”

Personsemployedtoperformthedutiesofdirectorofbeaches,assistantdirectorofbeaches,ordeputydirectorofbeachesshallnotbewithintheclassificationof“activelawenforcement”employee,unlessthosepersonshavepreviouslybeenincludedwithinthatclassification,orhaveperformeddutieswhichwouldhavequalifiedsuchpersonasan“activelawenforcement”employeeunderthissection.

(b)Inacountywithapopulationinexcessoffourmillion,theprovisionsofsubdivision(a) shall also apply to persons employed under the titles and to perform the duties of division chief-publicsafety,assistantdivisionchief-publicsafety,ordistrictmanager-publicsafety.


§31470.7. Status as “member” during public or county serviceTheelectionbyamembertoreceivecreditforemploymentinpublicserviceorincounty

servicepursuanttoSection31641.1or31641.5doesnotmakesuchpersonamemberduringanypartofsuchpublicserviceorcountyservice.


§31470.8. Determination of eligibilityIncasesofdoubtastowhetherapersoniseligibletobecomeasafetymember,theboard

shalldecide.(AddedbyrenumberingSection31470.6byStats.1957,Ch.1301,Sec.3)

§31470.9. Eligibility of public administrators, coroners, and coroner-public administratorsAllpublicadministrators,coronersandcoroner-publicadministrators,whether

compensatedonafeeorsalarybasis,areeligible,exceptthatthemembershipofsuchpersonsissubjecttotheapprovaloftheboardofsupervisors.


§31470.10. Welfare fraud investigators and administrators budgeted within Orange County; eligibility (Orange)NotwithstandingSection31470.2,allwelfarefraudinvestigatorsandadministrators

budgetedwithinOrangeCountyshallbeeligible,regardlessofwhichcountydepartmentactuallysupervisesorfundsthem,andshallreceivethosebenefitsuponamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31470.11. Welfare fraud investigators and administrators; counties in the 16th class; ineligibility; exceptions (Santa Barbara)NotwithstandingSection31470.2,allwelfarefraudinvestigatorsandadministratorsin

countiesofthe16thclass,asdescribedbySections28020and28037,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,shallbeineligibleforsafetymembership,unlessanduntilthe

Article1,§31470.6.-§31470.11.25

boardofsupervisorsshallelect,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethoseinvestigatorsandadministratorseligible.


§31470.12. Child support investigators and administrators; counties in the 16th class; eligibility; operation of section (Santa Barbara)Childsupportinvestigatorsandadministratorsincountiesofthe16thclass,asdescribed

bySection28020and28037,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,areeligible.Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardof

supervisorsshallelect,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionapplicableinthecounty.


§31470.13. Officers and employees who work with hazardous materials; eligibilityOfficersandemployeeswhosefunctionclearlyfallwithinthescopeofhazardous

materialsservicesareeligible.Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilthetimeastheboardof

supervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makethissectionapplicableinthecounty.


§31470.14. Eligibility of local prosecutors, local public defenders, and local public defender investigators(a)Localprosecutors,localpublicdefenders,andlocalpublicdefenderinvestigatorsare

eligible.(b)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(c)andnotwithstandingSections31639.7and

31639.75,pastserviceasageneralmembershallbeconvertedtosafetyserviceifthepastservicewasrenderedinapositionthathassubsequentlybeenreclassifiedasasafetypositionpursuanttothissection.Forlocalprosecutors,asdescribedinparagraph(2)ofsubdivision(a)ofSection31469.2,serviceintheofficeofadistrictattorneyandalocalchildsupportagencyshallbeconsideredserviceforthedistrictattorneyforpurposesofthissection.

(c)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,within90daysafterthissectionbecomesoperativeinthecounty,oronthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisorherentranceintoservice,whicheverislater,alocalprosecutor,localpublicdefender,orlocalpublicdefenderinvestigatormayfileawrittenelectionnottobecomealocalsafetymemberpursuanttothissection.

(d)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,localprosecutors,localpublicdefenders,andlocalpublicdefenderinvestigatorsshallbesubjecttothebenefitformulacontainedinSection31664or31664.2,oranyotherbenefitformulaapplicabletosafetymembersthatdoesnotprovidebenefitsgreaterthanthosebenefitsprovidedunderSection31664.2,asdesignatedintheresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(e).Alocalprosecutor,localpublicdefender,orlocalpublicdefenderinvestigatorshallnotbedeemedtobeacountypeaceofficer,asdefinedinSection31469.1,foranypurposeunderthischapter.

(e)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinacountyunlessanduntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativeinthecounty.Aresolutiontomakethissectionoperativeinthecountyshallincludealllocalprosecutors,localpublicdefenders,andlocalpublicdefenderinvestigatorsdescribedinSection31469.2.

Article1,§31470.11.-§31470.14. 26

(f)Aprovisioninamemorandumofunderstandingthatanemployerisnotobligatedto meet and confer regarding wages, hours, or conditions of employment during the term ofthememorandumshallnotbeconstruedtoprecludemeetingsregardingtheprovisionsofthissectionbetweenanemployerandlocalprosecutors,localpublicdefenders,andlocalpublicdefenderinvestigatorspriortotheexpirationofthetermofthememorandumofunderstanding.

(g)ThissectiondoesnotapplytoanypersondescribedinSection31469.2whodiespriortothedatethissectionbecomesapplicableinthecounty.


§31471. “Pension” defined“Pension”meanspaymentsforlifederivedfromcontributionsmadefromfunds

controlledbytheboardofsupervisors,orfromfundsofadistrict.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31471.5. “Recognized retiree organization” defined“Recognizedretireeorganization”meansanorganizationinwhichamajorityofthe

membersoftheorganizationareretiredmembersofthesystemandwhichtheboard,uponrequest,hasapprovedrecognition.


§31472. “Regular interest” defined“Regularinterest”meansinterestat2½ percentayearuntilotherwisedeterminedby

theboardcompoundedsemiannuallyonJune30thandDecember31st.(AmendedbyStats.1949,Ch.1228,Sec.2)

§31472.1. “Regular interest” or “interest” defined; deposits as including redeposits“Regularinterest”or“interest”whenusedforpurposesofcomputingdepositsunder

thischapter,exceptasotherwisespecificallyprovided,shallmeanthatamountofinterestwhichwouldhavebeencreditedtotheaccountofthememberontheamounttobedepositedattheinterestratesestablishedforthesystemifthecontributionsrequiredtobedepositedhadbeenmadeintheamountsandatthetimerequiredifthememberhadbeenmakingsuchdepositsduringthetimeservicewasrendereduntiltheamountrequiredtobedepositedhasbeenpaid.Forpurposesofthissection“deposits”includes“redeposits”.


§31473. “Retirement allowance” defined“Retirementallowance”meansthepensionplustheannuity.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31474. “Retirement association” defined“Retirementassociation”meansanassociationofallpersonswhomayqualifyas

annuitantsorbeneficiariespursuanttothischapter.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31475. “Retirement fund” defined“Retirementfund”meanstheEmployeesRetirementFund.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

Article1,§31470.14.-§31475.27

§31476. “Retirement system” defined; system created by Stats. 1937, Ch. 677 as amended, continued“Retirementsystem”meanseachofthesystemscreatedandestablishedpursuanttothis

chapteroritspredecessor.TheretirementsystemforcountyemployeescreatedbyChapter677oftheStatutesof

1937,asamended,iscontinuedinexistenceunderthischapter.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31477. “Salary fund” defined“Salaryfund”meansthefundfromwhichsalariesareordinarilypaid.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31478. “Public agency” defined“Publicagency”meanstheUnitedStatesofAmerica,thisstate,oranydepartment

or agency of either, or any county, or any city, which city or county is within this state, or anypubliccorporation,municipalcorporation,orpublicdistrict,whichpubliccorporation,municipalcorporation,orpublicdistrictissituatedinwholeorinpartwithinthecounty,andanylocalagencyformationcommission.

Section31468doesnotapplytothissection.(AmendedbyStats.1968,Ch.1261,Sec.3)

§31479. “Public service” defined“Publicservice”meansservicerenderedasanofficeroremployeeofapublicagencyfor

whichservicetheofficeroremployeereceivedcompensationfromthepublicagencyandwithrespect to which he is not entitled to receive credit in any retirement system supported wholly orinpartbypublicfundsafterhebecomesamemberofthissystem.


§31479.1. Credit for service as unpaid city councilman(a)(1)NotwithstandingSection31479,anelectiveorappointivecountyofficialmay

receivecreditforservicerenderedasacitycouncilmembereventhoughthatservicewasnotcompensated.

(2)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilitisadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.

(b)ThissectionshallnotapplytoserviceperformedasanelectiveorappointiveofficerthatissubjecttotheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013.

(AddedbyStats.1974,Ch.554,Sec.1,EffectiveAugust27,1974)(AmendedbyStats.2010,Ch.669(SB894),Sec.6)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.11)

§31479.2. Public service; officer or employee for department or agency of the District of Columbia“Publicservice”alsomeansservicerenderedasanofficeroremployeeofadepartment

oragencyoftheDistrictofColumbiaforwhichtheofficeroremployeereceivedcompensationand with respect to which he is not entitled to receive credit in any retirement system supportedwhollyorinpartbypublicfundsafterhebecomesamemberofthissystem.


§31479.3. Public service; merchant marine; purchase of credits; computation of benefits“Publicservice”alsomeansserviceinthemerchantmarineoftheUnitedStatesduring

Article1,§31476.-§31479.3. 28

theperiodofDecember7,1941,throughAugust15,1945,whetherornottheemployeereceivedcompensationfromtheUnitedStatesGovernmentandwithrespecttowhichheorsheisnotentitledtoreceivecreditinanyretirementsystemsupportedwhollyorinpartbypublicfundsafterheorshebecameamemberofthissystem.Thissectionshallapplytobothmembersandretiredmembersofacountyretirementassociationsubjecttothischapter.BothmembersandretiredmembersmaypurchasepublicservicecreditpursuanttoSections31641.1and31641.2.Foraretiredmembertheadditionalpensionamountaccruingbecauseofanypublicservicecreditpurchasedshallbecomputedasthoughtheservicehadbeencreditedontheeffectivedateofretirementandincreasedbyanycost-of-livingincreaseswhichmayhavebeengrantedsincetheeffectivedateofretirementandshallbeginasofthefirstofthemonthfollowingeitherthedateofreceiptoftheretiredmember’selectiontopurchasethecreditpursuanttoSection31641.1orthedateofreceiptofthefullcostofthepurchasecomputedpursuanttoSection31641.2whicheverislater.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makethissectionapplicableinthecounty.


§31480. Service requirementsTheprovisionsofthischapter,astheyapplytoretirementforserviceordisability,

deferredretirement,andthedeathbenefit,shallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberclaimingpublicservicepursuanttoSection31478ortoanymemberclaimingservicecreditforuncompensatedillnessleaveofabsenceinexcessof12consecutivemonthspursuanttoSection31646.1,unlesssuchmemberhasrenderedservice,otherthanthepublicserviceortheuncompensatedillnessleaveofabsenceforwhichthememberhaselectedtoreceivecredit,sufficienttomeettheminimumrequirementsofthischaptercoveringeachofthebenefitsenumeratedinthissection.


§31481. Effect of amendment of chapterAnamendmenteitherheretoforeorhereaftermadetothischapter,unlessexpressly

statedotherwise,doesnotgrant,takeaway,orotherwiseaffecttherightto,ortheamountof,anyretirementallowance,orotherbenefit,of:

(a)Anymemberwhohasretiredorshallretirepriortotheeffectivedateofsuchamendment.

(b)Thespouse,children,beneficiaryorcoannuitantofanymemberifsuchmemberhasretiredorshallretirepriortotheeffectivedateofsuchamendment.

(c)Thespouse,children,beneficiaryorcoannuitantofanymember,ifsuchmemberhasdiedorshalldie,priortoretirementandpriortotheeffectivedateofsuchamendment.


§31482. Participant in deferred compensation plan; eligibility for participationNotwithstanding any other provision of law, a participant in a deferred compensation

planestablishedpursuanttoChapter8(commencingwithSection18310)ofPart1ofDivision5ofTitle2orpursuanttoArticle1.1(commencingwithSection53212)ofChapter2ofPart1ofDivision2ofTitle5,mayalsoparticipateinaretirementsystemofapublicagencyestablishedpursuanttothischapter.


Article1,§31479.3.-§31482.29

§31482.5. Application; concurrent participation; credit for service(a)NotwithstandinganyprovisionstothecontraryinSection20894,thissectionshall

applytoallparticipantsinretirementsystemsgovernedbythischapter.(b)Apersonshallnotreceivecreditforthesameserviceintworetirementsystems

supportedwhollyorinpartbypublicfundsunderanycircumstance.(c) Nothing in this section shall preclude concurrent participation and credit for

serviceinapublicretirementsystemandinadeferredcompensationplanthatmeetstherequirementsofSection457ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCode,atax-deferredretirementplanthatmeetstherequirementsofSection40l(k)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCode,oradefinedcontributionplanandtrustthatmeetstherequirementsofSection401(a),403(b),or415(m)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCode.

(d) Nothing in this section shall preclude concurrent participation and credit for service inthedefinedbenefitplanprovidedunderthischapterandinasupplementaldefinedbenefitplanmaintainedbytheemployerthatmeetstherequirementsofSection401(a)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCode,providedallofthefollowingconditionsexist:

(1)Thedefinedbenefitplanprovidedunderthischapterhasbeendesignatedastheemployer’sprimaryplanforthepersonandthesupplementaldefinedbenefitplanisadoptedbythegoverningbodyoftheemployer.

(2)ThesupplementaldefinedbenefitplanhasreceivedarulingfromtheInternalRevenueServicestatingthattheplanqualifiesunderSection401(a)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCode,andhasfurnishedproofthereoftotheemployer.

(3)Theperson’sparticipationinthesupplementaldefinedbenefitplandoesnot,inanyway,interferewiththeperson’srightstomembershipinthedefinedbenefitplan,oranybenefitprovided,underthischapter.

(e)IfanyprovisionofthissectionconflictswiththeCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,thatprovisionshallnotapplytoamemberwhoissubjecttotheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013foralloranyportionofhisorhermembershipinthecountyretirementsystem.


§31483. Termination of optional provisionsNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,wheneverthegoverningbodyofacounty

ordistricthasmadeaparticularprovisionorprovisionsofthischapterapplicableinsuchcountyordistrictthroughtheadoptionofanordinanceorresolution,suchgoverningbodymayatanytimethereafteradoptafurtherordinanceorresolutionterminatingtheapplicabilityof such provision or provisions as to employees of the county or district whose services commenceafteragivenfuturedatespecifiedinthelatterordinanceorresolution.


§31484. San Diego County; termination of certain additional benefits; request of members (San Diego)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,wheneverthegoverningbodyofa

county or district has made a particular provision or provisions of this chapter providing for increasedbenefitsapplicabletosuchcountyordistrictthroughtheadoptionofanordinanceorresolution,suchgoverningbodymayatanytimethereafteradoptanotherordinanceorresolutionterminatingtheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsastocurrentemployeesofthecountyordistrictwhoelectbywrittennoticefiledwiththeboardtohavethe

Article1,§31482.5.-§31484. 30

applicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsdeterminedastothem.Thissectionisintendedonlytoauthorizetheterminationofthosebenefitswhichthegoverningbodyofacountyordistrictelectedtoincreaseoverthebasicbenefitsortomakeapplicableinadditiontothebasicbenefitspursuanttotheprovisionsofthischapter.Nothinghereinshallbeconstruedasauthorizingthegoverningbodyofacountyordistricttoterminatethebasicbenefitsrequiredundertheprovisionsofthischapter.

Thegoverningboardofacountyordistrictpriortoadoptinganordinanceorresolutionallowingtheterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyincreasedbenefitprovisionsshallprovideoralorwrittenexplanationoftheeffectandimpactofsuchterminationforeachmemberrequestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanysuchprovisions.

Thegoverningboardshallrequiremembersrequestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyprovisionstosignanaffidavitstatingthatsuchmemberhasbeenfullyinformedregarding the effect of such termination, and understands that such termination of a provision orprovisionsisirrevocable.Suchaffidavitshallalsostatethattheemployeehaschosenterminationoftheprovisionorprovisionsoftheemployee’sownfreewillandwasnotcoercedintoterminationofanyprovisionbytheemployeroranyotherperson.

Thegoverningbodyshall,intheordinanceorresolutiongrantingcurrentemployeestheoptionofelectingtohavetheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsterminated,specifytheprovisionorprovisionswhichshallbeapplicabletocurrentemployeesmakingtheelection.Employeeswhoelecttohavesuchprovisionorprovisionsterminated,shallhavetheirretirement allowance for service rendered after the effective date of election calculated on the basisoftheprovisionmadeapplicablebythegoverningbody.

Except as otherwise provided herein, the retirement allowance for service rendered prior totheeffectivedateoftheelectionshallbecalculatedonthebasisoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableduringtheperiodofservice.

Anyemployeewhohasmadesuchanelectionshallnotbeeligibleforretirementunlesstheemployeemeetstheminimumrequirementsoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableatthedateofretirement.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebythedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462.1nolongerapplies,shallhavethedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462appliedatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundertheprovisionsofsection31462.1.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebyacost-of-livingadjustmentprovisionofArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31870)nolongerappliesshallhavethecost-of-livingadjustmentprovision,ifany,specifiedbythegoverningbodyappliedtoallpreviousserviceatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundersuchotherprovisionofArticle16.5.AnyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebyadeathbenefitprovisionofArticle12(commencingwithSection31780)nolongerapplies,shallhavethedeathbenefitprovisionsspecifiedbythegoverningbodyappliedatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceunderotherprovisionsofArticle12.

Acurrentemployeewhohaselectedtohavetheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsterminatedmaynotrescindsuchanelectionunlessthegoverningbodyofthecountyordistrictagainmakestheparticularprovisionorprovisionsapplicabletothecountyordistrictthroughtheadoptionofasubsequentordinanceorresolution.Anysuchelectionmadebyacurrentemployeeshallbebindingupontheemployee’sspouseandallothersclaimingbenefitsundersuchemployee’sentitlement.

Thissectionshallnotbeapplicabletosafetymembers.ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoacountyofthethirdclassasdescribedbySection

28024.(AddedbyStats.1979,Ch.980,Sec.1)

Article1,§31484.31

§31484.5. San Mateo County; termination of certain additional benefits; request of members (San Mateo)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,wheneverthegoverningbodyofa

county or district has made a particular provision or provisions of this chapter providing for increasedbenefitsapplicabletosuchcountyordistrictthroughtheadoptionofanordinanceorresolution,suchgoverningbodymay,atanytimethereafter,adoptanotherordinanceorresolutionterminatingtheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsastocurrentemployeesofthecountyordistrictwhoelectbywrittennoticefiledwiththeboardtohavetheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsterminatedastothem.Thissectionisintendedonlytoauthorizetheterminationofthosebenefitswhichthegoverningbodyofacountyordistrictelectedtoincreaseoverthebasicbenefitsortomakeapplicableinadditiontothebasicbenefitspursuanttotheprovisionsofthischapter.Nothinghereinshallbeconstruedasauthorizingthegoverningbodyofacountyordistricttoterminatethebasicbenefitsrequiredundertheprovisionsofthischapter.

Thegoverningboardofacountyordistrict,priortoadoptinganordinanceorresolutionallowingtheterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyincreasedbenefitprovisions,shallprovidewrittenexplanationoftheeffectandimpactofsuchterminationforeachmemberrequestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanysuchprovisions.



Except as otherwise provided herein, the retirement allowance for service rendered prior totheeffectivedateoftheelectionshallbecalculatedonthebasisoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableduringthatperiodofservice.

Anyemployeewhohasmadesuchanelectionshallnotbeeligibleforretirementunlesstheemployeemeetstheminimumrequirementsoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableatthedateofretirement.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebythedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462.1nolongerapplies,shallhavethedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462appliedatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundertheprovisionsofSection31462.1.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebyacost-of-livingadjustmentprovisionofArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31870)nolongerappliesshallhavethecost-of-livingadjustmentprovision,ifany,specifiedbythegoverningbodyappliedtoallpreviousserviceatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundersuchotherprovisionofArticle16.5.Anyemployeemakingsuchelectionshallberefundedallmoneyscontributedbythatemployeeforthosebenefits,andsuchemployeeshallbedeemedtotherebyhavewaivedandrelinquishedanyrighttosuchautomaticcost-of-livingbenefits.

Acurrentemployeewhohaselectedtohavetheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsterminatedmaynotrescindsuchanelectionunlessthegoverningbodyofthecountyordistrictagainmakestheparticularprovisionorprovisionsapplicabletothecountyor

Article1,§31484.5. 32

districtthroughtheadoptionofasubsequentordinanceorresolution.Anysuchelectionmadebyacurrentemployeeshallbebindingupontheemployee’sspouseandallothersclaimingbenefitsundersuchemployee’sentitlement.

Thissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoacountyofthe10thclassasdescribedbySection28031.


§31484.6. Marin County; termination of certain additional benefits; request of members (Marin)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,wheneverthegoverningbodyofacounty

or district has made a particular provision or provisions of this chapter providing for increased benefitsapplicabletothatcountyordistrictthroughtheadoptionofanordinanceorresolution,thegoverningbodymayatanytimethereafteradoptanotherordinanceorresolutionterminatingtheapplicabilityofthatprovisionorprovisionsastocurrentemployeesofthecountyordistrictwhoelectbywrittennoticefiledwiththeboardtohavetheapplicabilityoftheprovisionorprovisionsterminatedastothem.Thissectionisintendedonlytoauthorizetheterminationofthosebenefitswhichthegoverningbodyofacountyordistrictelectedtoincreaseoverthebasicbenefitsortomakeapplicableinadditiontothebasicbenefitspursuanttotheprovisionsofthischapter.Nothinghereinshallbeconstruedasauthorizingthegoverningbodyofacountyordistricttoterminatethebasicbenefitsrequiredundertheprovisionsofthischapter.

Thegoverningboardofacountyordistrictpriortoadoptinganordinanceorresolutionallowingtheterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyincreasedbenefitprovisionsshallprovideanoralorwrittenexplanationoftheeffectandimpactoftheterminationforeachmemberrequestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanysuchprovisions.

Thegoverningboardshallrequiremembersrequestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyprovisionstosignanaffidavitstatingthatthememberhasbeenfullyinformedregarding the effect of the termination, and understands that the termination of a provision orprovisionsisirrevocable.Theaffidavitshallalsostatethattheemployeehaschosenterminationoftheprovisionorprovisionsoftheemployee’sownfreewillandwasnotcoercedintoterminationofanyprovisionbytheemployeroranyotherperson.

Thegoverningbodyshall,intheordinanceorresolutiongrantingcurrentemployeestheoptionofelectingtohavetheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsterminated,specifytheprovisionorprovisionswhichshallbeapplicabletocurrentemployeesmakingtheelection.Employeeswhoelecttohavetheprovisionorprovisionsterminated,shallhavetheirretirement allowance for service rendered after the effective date of election calculated on the basisoftheprovisionmadeapplicablebythegoverningbody.


Anyemployeewhohasmadesuchanelectionshallnotbeeligibleforretirementunlesstheemployeemeetstheminimumrequirementsoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableatthedateofretirement.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebythedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462.1nolongerapplies,shallhavethedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462appliedatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundertheprovisionsofSection31462.1.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebyacost-of-livingadjustmentprovisionofArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31870)nolongerappliesshallhavethecost-of-livingadjustmentprovision,ifany,specifiedbythegoverningbodyappliedtoallpreviousserviceatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousservice

Article1,§31484.5.-§31484.6.33

undersuchotherprovisionofArticle16.5.AnyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebyadeathbenefitprovisionofArticle12(commencingwithSection31780)nolongerappliesshallhavethedeathbenefitprovisionsspecifiedbythegoverningbodyappliedatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceunderotherprovisionsofArticle12.

Acurrentemployeewhohaselectedtohavetheapplicabilityoftheprovisionorprovisionsterminatedmaynotrescindsuchanelectionunlessthegoverningbodyofthecountyordistrictagainmakestheparticularprovisionorprovisionsapplicabletothecountyordistrictthroughtheadoptionofasubsequentordinanceorresolution.Anysuchelectionmadebyacurrentemployeeshallbebindingupontheemployee’sspouseandallothersclaimingbenefitsundersuchemployee’sentitlement.

Thissectionshallnotbeapplicabletosafetymembers.Thissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoacountyoftheeighteenthclassasdescribedby

Section28039.(AddedbyStats.1981,Ch.379,Sec.1)

§31484.7. Merced County; termination of certain additional benefits; request of members (Merced)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,wheneverthegoverningbodyofa

county or district has made a particular provision or provisions of this chapter providing for increasedbenefitsapplicabletosuchcountyordistrictthroughtheadoptionofanordinanceorresolution,suchgoverningbodymay,atanytimethereafter,adoptanotherordinanceorresolutionterminatingtheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsastocurrentemployeesofthecountyordistrictwhoelectbywrittennoticefiledwiththeboardtohavetheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsterminatedastothem.Thissectionisintendedonlytoauthorizetheterminationofthosebenefitswhichthegoverningbodyofacountyordistrictelectedtoincreaseoverthebasicbenefitsortomakeapplicableinadditiontothebasicbenefitspursuanttotheprovisionsofthischapter.Nothinghereinshallbeconstruedasauthorizingthegoverningbodyofacountyordistricttoterminatethebasicbenefitsrequiredundertheprovisionsofthischapter.

Thegoverningboardofacountyordistrict,priortoadoptinganordinanceorresolutionallowingtheterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyincreasedbenefitprovisions,shallprovidewrittenexplanationoftheeffectandimpactofsuchterminationforeachmemberrequestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanysuchprovisions.




Anyemployeewhohasmadesuchanelectionshallnotbeeligibleforretirementunless

Article1,§31484.6.-§31484.7. 34

theemployeemeetstheminimumrequirementsoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableatthedateofretirement.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebythedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462.1nolongerapplies,shallhavethedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462appliedatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundertheprovisionsofSection31462.1.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebyacost-of-livingadjustmentprovisionofArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31870)nolongerappliesshallhavethecost-of-livingadjustmentprovision,ifany,specifiedbythegoverningbodyappliedtoallpreviousserviceatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundersuchotherprovisionofArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31870).

Anyemployeemakingsuchelectionshallberefundedallmoneyscontributedbythatemployeeforthosebenefits,andsuchemployeeshallbedeemedtotherebyhavewaivedandrelinquishedanyrighttosuchautomaticcost-of-livingbenefits.


Thissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoacountyofthe25thclassasdescribedbySection28046.

(AddedbyStats.1983,Ch.558,Sec.3,EffectiveJuly28,1983)

§31484.8. Alameda County; termination of certain additional benefits; request of members (Alameda)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,wheneverthegoverningbodyofacounty

or district has made a particular provision or provisions of this chapter providing for increased benefitsapplicabletothatcountyordistrictthroughtheadoptionofanordinanceorresolution,thegoverningbodymayatanytimethereafteradoptanotherordinanceorresolutionterminatingtheapplicabilityofthatprovisionorprovisionsastocurrentemployeesofthecountyordistrictwhoelectbywrittennoticefiledwiththeboardtohavetheapplicabilityoftheprovisionorprovisionsterminatedastothem.Thissectionisintendedonlytoauthorizetheterminationofthosebenefitswhichthegoverningbodyofacountyordistrictelectedtoincreaseoverthebasicbenefitsortomakeapplicableinadditiontothebasicbenefitspursuanttotheprovisionsofthischapter.Nothinghereinshallbeconstruedasauthorizingthegoverningbodyofacountyordistricttoterminatethebasicbenefitsrequiredundertheprovisionsofthischapter.

Thegoverningboardofacountyordistrictpriortoadoptinganordinanceorresolutionallowingtheterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyincreasedbenefitprovisionsshallprovideanoralorwrittenexplanationoftheeffectandimpactoftheterminationforeachmemberrequestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanysuchprovisions.

Thegoverningboardshallrequiremembersrequestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyprovisionstosignanaffidavitstatingthatthememberhasbeenfullyinformedregarding the effect of the termination, and understands that the termination of a provision orprovisionsisirrevocable.Theaffidavitshallalsostatethattheemployeehaschosenterminationoftheprovisionorprovisionsoftheemployee’sownfreewillandwasnotcoercedintoterminationofanyprovisionbytheemployeroranyotherperson.

Thegoverningbodyshall,intheordinanceorresolutiongrantingcurrentemployeestheoptionofelectingtohavetheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsterminated,specifytheprovisionorprovisionswhichshallbeapplicabletocurrentemployeesmakingthe

Article1,§31484.7.-§31484.8.35

election.Employeeswhoelecttohavetheprovisionorprovisionsterminated,shallhavetheirretirement allowance for service rendered after the effective date of election calculated on the basisoftheprovisionmadeapplicablebythegoverningbody.

The retirement allowance for services rendered prior to the effective date of the election shallbecalculatedonthebasisoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableduringthatperiodofservice.Anyemployeewhohasmadesuchanelectionshallnotbeeligibleforretirementunlesstheemployeemeetstheminimumrequirementsoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicabletothedateofretirement.

Acurrentemployeewhohaselectedtohavetheapplicabilityoftheprovisionorprovisionsterminatedmaynotrescindsuchanelectionunlessthegoverningbodyofthecountyordistrictagainmakestheparticularprovisionorprovisionsapplicabletothecountyordistrictthroughtheadoptionofasubsequentordinanceorresolution.Anysuchelectionmadebyacurrentemployeeshallbebindingupontheemployee’sspouseandallothersclaimingbenefitsundersuchemployee’sentitlement.

Anemployeemaymaketheelectiondescribedhereinatanytime.Theeffectivedateoftheelectionshallbethefirstdayofthebiweeklypayrollperiodfollowingexecutionandfilingoftheemployee’saffidavit.

Anemployeesufferingabreakinserviceshall,ifheorshereturnstocoveredemployment within three years of the date of separation, return at the higher level if and only ifhisorherpriorcoveragewasatthatlevel.TheprovisioninthisparagraphappliesonlytoseparationsoccurringbetweenJune30,1983,throughandincludingJune30,1988,andfurtherappliesonlytoemployeeswhowereactivemembersonJune30,1983,andtoemployeeslaidoffpriortothatdatewhowereonacivilservicereemploymentlistonJune30,1983.Thisprovisiondoesnotapplytoemployeesleavingtheretirementsystembecauseofachangeofstatusfromfulltimetoparttime,regularappointmenttoprojectappointmentandbacktoregularappointment,orregularappointmenttointermittentappointmentandbacktoregularappointment.

AfterJune30,1988,anemployeewhoislaidoffandrehiredwithinoneyearfromthedate of separation shall return at the higher level if and only if his or her prior coverage was at thatlevel.

Aformeremployeewhohaselectedretirementfromthehigherbenefitlevelandwhoreturnstocoveredemploymentshallreturntothehigherbenefitlevel.ThebenefitlevelsdescribedinthissectionarethoseinexistenceonJuly1,1983.ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoacountyofthefourthclassasdescribedbySections28020and28025.


§31484.9. Contra Costa County authorized to establish different retirement benefits for different bargaining units of safety employees represented by county deputy sheriff association, and unrepresented employees in similar job classifications.(a) This section shall apply to the retirement system of Contra Costa County and only

iftheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionmakingthissectionapplicableinthecounty.Notwithstandinganyotherlaw,theboardofsupervisorsmaymakethissectionapplicableinthecountyonadatespecifiedintheresolution,whichdatemaybedifferentthanthedateoftheresolution.

(b)(1)WhentheboardofsupervisorsmeetsandconferspursuanttotheMeyers-Milias-BrownAct(Chapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1)withtheContraCostaCountyDeputySheriffs’Association,thepartiesmayagree,pursuanttoamemorandumofunderstandingasdescribedinSection3505.1,thattheprovisionsofthissectionshallapplytosafetyemployeesrepresentedbytheContraCostaCountyDeputySheriffs’Association.

Article1,§31484.8.-§31484.9. 36

(2)ThetermsofanyagreementreachedwiththeContraCostaCountyDeputySheriffs’AssociationpursuanttothissubdivisionshallbemadeapplicablebytheboardofsupervisorstounrepresentedcountyemployeeswhoaresafetymembersintheContraCostaCountySheriff’sOfficeandinsimilarjobclassificationsasemployeeswithinapplicablebargainingunitsandthesupervisorsandmanagersofthoseemployees.

(3)AnordinanceorresolutionadoptedpursuanttothissectionmayestablishdifferentretirementbenefitsfordifferentbargainingunitsofsafetyemployeesrepresentedbytheContraCostaCountyDeputySheriffs’AssociationandtheunrepresentedgroupsofsafetyemployeesinsimilarjobclassificationsandthesupervisorsandmanagersofthoseemployeesTheordinanceorresolutionmayalsoestablishthetimeperiodduringwhichemployeesmaymakeanelectionunderthissectionandthedateonwhichanemployeeshallbeemployedtobesubjecttothissection.

(c)(1)Notwithstandinganyotherlaw,iftheboardofsupervisorsmakesaparticularprovisionorprovisionsofthischapterprovidingforincreasedbenefitsapplicabletosafetyemployeesofthecountyrepresentedbytheContraCostaCountyDeputySheriffs’Associationthroughtheadoptionofanordinanceorresolution,theboardofsupervisorsmayatanytimethereafteradoptanotherordinanceorresolutionterminatingtheapplicabilityofthatprovisionorprovisionsastocurrentemployeesofthecountywhoelectbywrittennoticefiledwiththeboardtohavetheapplicabilityoftheprovisionorprovisionsterminatedastothoseemployees.Thissectionisintendedonlytoauthorizetheterminationofthosebenefitsthattheboardofsupervisorselectedtoincreaseoverthebasicbenefitsortomakeapplicableinadditiontothebasicbenefitspursuanttotheprovisionsofthischapter.Theterminationofbenefitsshallbeconsistentwiththememorandumofunderstandingdescribedinsubdivision(b).Nothinginthissectionshallbeconstruedasauthorizingtheboardofsupervisorstoterminatethebasicbenefitsrequiredundertheprovisionsofthischapter.

(2)Theboardofsupervisors,priortoadoptinganordinanceorresolutionallowingtheterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyincreasedbenefitprovisionsshallprovideawrittenexplanationoftheeffectandimpactoftheterminationforeachmemberrequestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyprovisions.

(3)Theboardofsupervisorsshallrequiremembersrequestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyprovisionstosignanaffidavitstatingthatthememberhasbeenfullyinformed regarding the effect of the termination, and understands that the termination of aprovisionorprovisionsisirrevocable.Theaffidavitshallalsostatethattheemployeehaschosenterminationoftheprovisionorprovisionsoftheemployee’sownfreewillandwasnotcoercedintoterminationofanyprovisionbytheemployeroranyotherpersonandshallwaiveandreleaseanyrighttoabenefitundertheterminatedprovisionorprovisionsfortheperiodofservicefollowingtheelection.

(4)Theboardofsupervisorsshall,intheordinanceorresolutiongrantingcurrentemployeestheoptionofelectingtohavetheapplicabilityoftheprovisionorprovisionsterminated,andconsistentwiththememorandumofunderstandingdescribedinsubdivision(b),specifytheprovisionorprovisionsthatshallbeapplicabletocurrentemployeesmakingtheelection.Morethanoneoptionalsetofprovisionsmaybemadeavailableforelection,including,butnotlimitedto,the“3Percentat55”retirementformula,acost-of-livingadjustment,andthedefinitionoffinalcompensationpursuanttoSection31462or31462.1.

(5) Employees who elect to have the provision or provisions terminated, shall have their retirement allowance for service rendered after the effective date of election calculated onthebasisoftheprovisionmadeapplicablebytheboardofsupervisors.Exceptasotherwiseprovided in this section, the retirement allowance for service rendered prior to the effective dateoftheelectionshallbecalculatedonthebasisoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicable

Article1,§31484.9.37

during that period of service and the retirement allowance for service rendered on or after theeffectivedateoftheelectionshallbecalculatedonthebasisoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableduringthatperiodofservice.Thetotalretirementallowanceforanemployeesubjecttothissectionshallbethesumoftheretirementallowancecalculatedforservicerenderedprior to the effective date of the election and the retirement allowance calculated for service renderedonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheelection.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionshallnotbeeligibleforretirementunlesstheemployeemeetstheminimumrequirementsoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableatthedateofretirement.

(6)Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionthatthedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462.1nolongerapplies,shallhavethedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462.1appliedtoallservicerenderedpriortotheeffectivedateoftheelectionandthedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462appliedtoallservicerenderedonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheelection.ForpurposesofapplyingSection31835to a retirement system other than the retirement system in Contra Costa County, the highest averagecompensationdescribedinthisparagraphshallapply.

(7)Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionthatacost-of-livingadjustmentprovisionofArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31870)nolongerappliesshallhavethecost-of-livingadjustmentprovision,ifany,forservicerenderedpriortotheeffectivedateoftheelectioncalculatedonthebasisofthecost-of-livingadjustmentprovisionapplicableduringthatperiodofservice.Anycost-of-livingadjustmentprovisionspecifiedbytheboardofsupervisorsforservicerenderedaftertheeffectivedateoftheelectionshallapplysolelytothatservice.Aterminationofbenefitsshallbeconsistentwiththememorandumofunderstandingdescribedinsubdivision(b).

(8)Acurrentemployeewhohaselectedtohavetheapplicabilityoftheprovisionorprovisionsterminatedmaynotrescindthatelection,unlesstheboardofsupervisorsagainmakestheparticularprovisionorprovisionsapplicabletotheemployeeswhoarerepresentedbytheContraCostaCountyDeputySheriffs’Association,throughtheadoptionofasubsequentordinanceorresolutionpursuanttoamemorandumofunderstandingasdescribedinSection3505.1.

(9)Anelectionmadebyacurrentemployeeshallbebindingupontheemployee’sspouseandallothersclaimingbenefitsunderthatemployee’sentitlement.


§31485. Ventura County; termination of certain additional benefits; request of members (Ventura)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,wheneverthegoverningbodyofacounty

or district following meet and confer has made a particular provision or provisions of this chapterprovidingforincreasedbenefitsapplicabletosuchcountyordistrictthroughtheadoptionofanordinanceorresolution,suchgoverningbodymayatanytimethereafteradoptanotherordinanceorresolutionterminatingtheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsastocurrentemployeesofthecountyordistrictwhoelectbywrittennoticefiledwiththeboardtohavetheapplicabilityofsuchprovisionorprovisionsterminatedastothem.Thissectionisintendedonlytoauthorizetheterminationofthosebenefitswhichthegoverningbodyofacountyordistrictelectedtoincreaseoverthebasicbenefitsortomakeapplicableinadditiontothebasicbenefitspursuanttotheprovisionsofthischapter.Nothinghereinshallbeconstruedasauthorizingthegoverningbodyofacountyordistricttoterminatethebasicbenefitsrequiredundertheprovisionsofthischapter.

Thegoverningboardofacountyordistrictpriortoadoptinganordinanceorresolutionallowingtheterminationoftheapplicabilityofanyincreasedbenefitprovisionsshallprovideoralandwrittenexplanationoftheeffectandimpactofsuchterminationforeachmember

Article1,§31484.9.-§31485. 38

requestingterminationoftheapplicabilityofanysuchprovisions.Thegoverningboardshallrequiremembersrequestingterminationoftheapplicability

ofanyprovisionstosignanaffidavitstatingthatsuchmemberhasbeenfullyinformedregarding the effect of such termination and understands that such termination of a provision orprovisionsisirrevocable.Suchaffidavitshallalsostatethattheemployeehaschosenterminationoftheprovisionorprovisionsoftheemployee’sownfreewillandwasnotcoercedintoterminationofanyprovisionbytheemployeroranyotherperson.


Except as otherwise provided herein, the retirement allowance for service rendered priortotheeffectivedateoftheelectionshallbecalculatedonthebasisoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableduringthatperiodofservice.Anyemployeewhohasmadesuchanelectionshallnotbeeligibleforretirementunlesstheemployeemeetstheminimumrequirementsoftheprovisionorprovisionsapplicableatthedateofretirement.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebythedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462.1nolongerapplies,shallhavethedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462appliedatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundertheprovisionsofsection31462.1.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionwherebyacost-of-livingadjustmentprovisionofArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31870)nolongerappliesshallhavethecost-of-livingadjustmentprovision,ifany,specifiedbythegoverningbodyappliedtoallpreviousserviceatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundersuchotherprovisionofArticle16.5.Anyemployeemakingsuchelectionshallberefundedallmoneyscontributedbythatemployeeforthosebenefits,andsuchemployeewaivesandrelinquishesallrightstosuchautomaticcost-of-livingbenefits.


Thissectionshallnotbeapplicabletosafetymembers.Thissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoacountyofthethirteenthclassasdescribedby

Section28034.(AddedbyStats.1980,Ch.38,Sec.1)

§31485.5. Defined contribution plans; administration; legislative intentItistheintentoftheLegislaturethatcountiesthatareconsideringtheadoptionof

definedcontributionplans,alsoconsiderhavingthoseplansadministeredbytheircountyretirementsystems.

(AddedbyStats.1991,Ch.1108,Sec.3.5,EffectiveOctober14,1991)

§31485.6. Treasurer“Treasurer”asusedinSections31595.9,31625,31625.1,31629,and31706meansthe

countytreasureroranyotherentityauthorizedbytheboard.(AddedbyStats.1995,Ch.584(AB1021),Sec.4)

Article1,§31485.-§31485.6.39

§31485.7. Retirement service credit; purchase; operation of section(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,amemberwhoelectsto

purchaseretirementservicecreditunderSection31486.3,31486.35,31499.3,31499.13,31641.1,31641.5,31641.55,31646,31652,or31658,orundertheregulationsadoptedbytheboardpursuanttoSection31643or31644shallcompletethatpurchasewithin120daysaftertheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.

(b)Thissectionisnotoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolution,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(AddedbyStats.1996,Ch.493(SB792),Sec.4)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.261(AB55),Sec.1,EffectiveSeptember4,2003)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.834(AB3033),Sec.3.5)(AmendedbyStats.2007,Ch.130(AB299),Sec.127)

§31485.8. Counties of the first class; retirement service credit; purchase; application of section (Los Angeles)(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,amemberwhoelectsto

purchaseretirementservicecreditunderSection31490.5,31490.6,31494.3,31494.5,31641.1,31641.5,31646,31652,or31658,orundertheregulationsadoptedbytheboardpursuanttoSection31643or31644shallcompletethatpurchasewithin120daysaftertheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.

(b)Thissectionappliesonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.

(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.261(AB55),Sec.2,EffectiveSeptember4,2003)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.117,(AB2240),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2007,Ch.130,(AB299),Sec.128)

§31485.9. Provision of retirement benefits for some but not all general members of a county or district; Provision of different benefits for certain subgroups within a membership classification(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,including,butnotlimitedto,Chapter

10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1,noresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentunderthischapteradoptedonorafterJanuary1,2004,mayprovideanyretirementbenefitsforsome,butnotall,generalmembersofacountyordistrict.

(b)Noresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentunderthischapteradoptedonorafterJanuary1,2004,mayprovidedifferentretirementbenefitsforanysubgroupofgeneralmemberswithinamembershipclassification,including,butnotlimitedto,bargainingunitsorunrepresentedgroups,unlessbenefitsprovidedbystatuteformembershiredonorafterthedatespecifiedintheresolutionareadoptedbythecountyordistrictgoverningboard,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,pursuanttoamemorandumofunderstandingmadeundertheMeyers-Milias-BrownAct(Chapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle2).Allnonrepresentedemployeeswithinsimilarjobclassificationsasemployeesinabargainingunitsubjecttoamemorandumofunderstanding,orsupervisorsandmanagersthereof,shallbesubjecttothesameformulaforthecalculationofretirementbenefitsapplicabletotheemployeesinthebargainingunit.NoretirementcontractamendmentmaybeimposedbytheemployerinabsenceofamemorandumofunderstandingundertheMeyers-Milias-BrownAct.

Article1,§31485.7.-§31485.9. 40

(c)Thissectiondoesnotprecludechangingmembershipclassificationfromonemembershipclassificationtoanothermembershipclassification.

(d)Thissectionshallnotapplytoretirementbenefitsforamemberdescribedinparagraph(2)ofsubdivision(d)ofSection31676.15.

(AddedbyStats.2003,Ch.852(AB1587),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2007,Ch.86(AB1255),Sec.1,EffectiveJuly17,2007,asanurgency

statute)

§31485.10. San Mateo County authority to provide retirement benefits to some but not all general members or safety members; different formula for membership classifications(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,inacountyofthe10thclass,asdefined

inSections28020and28031,theboardofsupervisorsmay,byresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentunderthischapter,provideanyretirementbenefitsforsome,butnotall,generalmembersorsafetymembersofacounty.

(b)Theresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentdescribedinsubdivision(a)mayprovideadifferentformulaforcalculationofretirementbenefits,bymakinganysectionofthischapterapplicabletoanysubgroupofmemberswithinamembershipclassification,including,butnotlimitedto,bargainingunits,orunrepresentedgroups,applicabletoservicecreditearnedonandafterthedatespecifiedintheresolution,whichdatemaybeearlierthanthedatetheresolutionisadopted.

(c)Aresolutionadoptedpursuanttothissectionmayrequirememberstopayallorpartofthecontributionsbyamemberoremployer,orboth,thatwouldhavebeenrequiredifthesectionorsectionsspecifiedinsubdivision(b),asadoptedbytheboardorgoverningbody,hadbeenineffectduringtheperiodoftimedesignatedintheresolution.Thepaymentbyamembershallbecomepartoftheaccumulatedcontributionsofthemember.Forthosememberswhoarerepresentedbyabargainingunit,thepaymentrequirementshallbeapprovedinamemorandumofunderstandingexecutedbytheboardofsupervisorsandtheemployeerepresentatives.

(d)Aresolutionadoptedpursuanttothissectionmayrequiresafetymembershiredonandaftertheeffectivedateoftheactaddingthissubdivisiontopayallorpartofthecontributionsbyamemberoremployer,orboth.Thepaymentbyasafetymembershallbecomepartoftheaccumulatedcontributionsofthesafetymember.Forthosesafetymemberswhoarerepresentedbyabargainingunit,thepaymentrequirementandanychangestothepaymentrequirementshallnotbeeffectiveuntilapprovedinamemorandumofunderstandingexecutedbytheboardofsupervisorsandtheemployeerepresentatives.

(e)Thissectionshallonlyapplytomemberswhoretireonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a)or(b).

(f)Thissectionshallnotbecomeoperativeunlessanduntilthecountyboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativeinthecounty.

(AmendedbyStats.2011,Ch.390(AB89),Sec.1,EffectiveOctober2,2011,asanurgencystatute)

§31485.11. Counties of the fourth or 25th class; authority to provide different retirement benefits for some safety member bargaining units; different formula for calculation of benefits; contributions; separate negotiations(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, in a county of the fourth class, as

definedinSections28020and28025,oracountyofthe25thclass,asdefinedinSections28020and28046,eachasamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,theboardofsupervisorsmay,byresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentunderthischapter,provide

Article1,§31485.9.-§31485.11.41

differentretirementbenefitsforsomesafetymemberbargainingunitswithinthesafetymemberclassificationofacountyretirementsystem.

(b)Theresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentdescribedinsubdivision(a)mayprovideadifferentformulaforcalculationofretirementbenefits,bymakinganysectionofthischapterapplicabletodifferentsafetybargainingunitswithinthesafetymemberclassification,applicabletoservicecreditearnedonandafterthedatespecifiedintheresolution,whichdatemaybeearlierthanthedatetheresolutionisadopted.Thetermsofanagreementormemorandumofunderstandingreachedwitharecognizedemployeeorganization,pursuanttothissubdivision,maybemadeapplicablebytheboardofsupervisorstoanyunrepresentedgroupwithinthesameorsimilarmembershipclassificationastheemployeesrepresentedbytherecognizedemployeeorganizationorbargainingunit.

(c)Aresolutionadoptedpursuanttothissectionmayrequirememberstopayallorpartofthecontributionsbyamemberoremployer,orboth,thatwouldhavebeenrequiredifthesectionorsectionsspecifiedinsubdivision(b),asadoptedbytheboardorgoverningbody,hadbeenineffectduringtheperiodoftimedesignatedintheresolution.Thepaymentbyamembershallbecomepartoftheaccumulatedcontributionsofthemember.Forthosememberswhoarerepresentedbyabargainingunit,thepaymentrequirementshallbeapprovedinamemorandumofunderstandingexecutedbytheboardofsupervisorsandtheemployeerepresentatives.

(d)Thissectionshallonlyapplytomemberswhoretireonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a)or(b)oronorafterthedateprovidedinthememorandumofunderstandingdescribedinsubdivision(c).

(e)Theboardofsupervisors,intheresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentdescribedinsubdivision(a),shallnotrequirethatabargainingunitbedividedsolelyforthepurposeofprovidingdifferentretirementbenefits.However,ifthemembersofabargainingunitwithinthesameorsimilarmembershipclassificationsoelect,retirementbenefitsmaybeseparatelynegotiatedwiththatbargainingunit.

(f)ThissectionshallremainineffectonlyuntilJanuary1,2010,andasofthatdateisrepealed,unlessalaterenactedstatute,thatisenactedbeforeJanuary1,2010,deletesorextendsthatdate.

(AddedbyStats.2004,Ch.662(AB3008),Sec.1,repealedJanuary1,2010)

§31485.12. (Repealed January 1, 2011) Retirement benefits for some safety member bargaining units (Santa Barbara, Solano)(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,inacountyofthe16thclass,asdefined

inSections28020and28037,oracountyofthe22ndclass,asdefinedinSections28020and28043,eachasamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,theboardofsupervisorsmay,byresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentunderthischapter,providedifferentretirementbenefitsforsomesafetymemberbargainingunitswithinthesafetymemberclassificationofacountyretirementsystem.

(b)Theresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentdescribedinsubdivision(a)mayprovideadifferentformulaforcalculationofretirementbenefitsbymakinganysectionofthischapterthatisapplicabletodifferentsafetymemberbargainingunitswithinthesafetymemberclassificationapplicabletoservicecreditearnedonandafterthedatespecifiedintheresolution,whichdatemaybeearlierthanthedatetheresolutionisadopted.Thetermsofanagreementormemorandumofunderstandingreachedwitharecognizedemployeeorganization,pursuanttothissubdivision,maybemadeapplicablebytheboardofsupervisorstoanyunrepresentedgroupwithinthesameorsimilarmembershipclassificationastheemployeesrepresentedbytherecognizedemployeeorganizationorbargainingunit.

(c)Aresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentadoptedpursuanttothis

Article1,§31485.11.-§31485.12. 42

sectionmayrequirememberstopayallorpartofthecontributionsbyamemberoremployer,orboth,thatwouldhavebeenrequiredifthesectionorsectionsspecifiedinsubdivision(b),asadoptedbytheboardorgoverningbody,hadbeenineffectduringtheperiodoftimedesignatedintheresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendment.Thepaymentbyamembershallbecomepartoftheaccumulatedcontributionsofthemember.Forthosememberswhoarerepresentedbyabargainingunit,thepaymentrequirementshallbeapprovedinamemorandumofunderstandingexecutedbytheboardofsupervisorsandtheemployeerepresentatives.

(d)Thissectionshallonlyapplytomemberswhoretireonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentdescribedinsubdivision(a)or(b),oronorafterthedateprovidedinthememorandumofunderstandingdescribedinsubdivision(c).

(e)Theboardofsupervisors,intheresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentdescribedinsubdivision(a),shallnotrequirethatabargainingunitbedividedsolelyforthepurposeofprovidingdifferentretirementbenefits.However,ifthemembersofabargainingunitwithinthesameorsimilarmembershipclassificationsoelect,retirementbenefitsmaybeseparatelynegotiatedwiththatbargainingunit.

(f)ThissectionshallremainineffectonlyuntilJanuary1,2011,andasofthatdateisrepealed,unlessalaterenactedstatute,thatisenactedbeforeJanuary1,2011,deletesorextendsthatdate.

(AddedbyStats.2005,Ch.708(AB256),Sec.4,RepealedJanuary1,2011)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.538(SB1852),Sec.306)

§31485.13. Internal Revenue Code Compliance; Prohibition against increase in benefits prescribed by this chapter due to forfeiture of benefitsInaccordancewithSection401(a)(8)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCode,aforfeiture

ofbenefitsunderthischaptershallnotbeappliedtoincreasebenefitsthatamemberwouldotherwisereceiveunderthischapter.


§31485.14. Internal Revenue Code Compliance; DistributionsAlldistributionsofbenefitsprovidedunderthischaptershallcomplywiththe

requirementsofSection401(a)(9)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCodethatareapplicabletopublicemployeeplans,including,butnotlimitedto,requirementsrelatingtothefollowing:

(a)Thetimethatbenefitpaymentsbegin,includingbenefitpaymentspaidafterthedeathofamember.

(b)Theformofdistributionofbenefits.(c)Incidentaldeathbenefits.(AddedbyStats.2008,Ch.212(AB1626),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2009,Ch.140(AB1164),Sec.87)

§31485.15. Internal Revenue Code Compliance; Eligible rollover distributions; Trustee-to-trustee transfer InaccordancewithSection401(a)(31)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCode,apersonwho

isentitledtoadistributionunderthischapterthatisaneligiblerolloverdistributionmayelecttohaveallorapartofthatdistributionpaiddirectlytoaneligible,specifiedplan,subjecttotermsandconditionsestablishedbytheboard.Ifapersonelectstohavetheeligiblerolloverdistributionpaidtoaneligible,specifiedplan,thepayment,whenitisdistributable,shallbemadeintheformofadirecttrustee-to-trusteetransfertotheeligibleretirementplan.


Article1,§31485.12.-§31485.15.43

§31485.16. Counties of the fourth class; resolution requiring election of pension calculation by safety employees (Alameda)(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, in a county of the fourth class,

asdefinedinSections28020and28025,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,theboardofsupervisorsmay,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,aspartofanynegotiatedmemorandumofunderstandingwithabargainingunitthatrepresentssafetyemployees,requireasafetyemployeeofthatbargainingunitorunrepresentedsafetyemployeehiredafterapprovaloftheresolution,toelectinwriting,eitherthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31664orthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31664.2.Theelectionshallbemadewithin45calendardaysofbeginningemploymentwiththecounty.IfanewsafetyemployeedoesnotelectthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31664.2within45daysofbeginningemployment,thenewsafetyemployeeshallbedeemedtohaveelectedthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31664.Oncemade,asafetyemployeeunderthissectionshallnotbepermittedtorescindhisorherelection.

(b)Theresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a)mayprovideadifferentformulaorcalculationofretirementbenefitsfornewmembersofothersafetybargainingunitsorotherunrepresentedsafetyemployeeshiredafterapprovaloftheresolution,bymakinganysectionofthischapterapplicabletothosedifferentsafetybargainingunitsorunrepresentedemployees,withinthesafetymemberclassification,pursuanttoanegotiatedmemorandumofunderstandingasdescribedinSection3505.1.

(c)Theresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a)mayprovideadifferentformulaorcalculationofsafetyretirementbenefitsfornewsafetymembersinonebargainingunitthanthatwhichisprovidedfornewsafetymembersofotherbargainingunitsornewunrepresentedsafetymembers.

(d)Aresolutionadoptedpursuanttothissectionorpreviouslyadoptedresolutionsoftheboardmayrequirememberstopayallorpartofthecontributionsbyamemberoremployer,orboth,thatwouldhavebeenrequiredifthesectionorsectionsspecifiedwithinthischapterwereorhavebeenadoptedbyresolution.Thepaymentbyamembershallbecomepartoftheaccumulatedcontributionsofthemember.Forthosememberswhoarerepresentedbyabargainingunit,thepaymentrequirementshallbeapprovedinamemorandumofunderstandingexecutedbytheboardofsupervisorsandtheemployeerepresentatives.

(e)Theboardofsupervisors,inaresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a),shallnotrequirethatabargainingunitbedividedsolelyforthepurposeofprovidingdifferentretirementbenefits.However,ifthemembersofabargainingunitwithinthesameorsimilarmembershipclassificationsoelect,retirementbenefitsmaybeseparatelynegotiatedwiththatbargainingunit.

(f) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the effective date of a resolution describedinsubdivision(a)maybedifferentthanthedateoftheresolution.

(AddedbyStats.2010,Ch.81(AB1667),Sec.1–UrgencyStatute,EffectiveJuly15,2010)

§31485.17. Death of member while performing qualified military service; survivors entitled to additional benefits; service-connected death or disability; credit of service for vesting; application(a)InaccordancewithSection401(a)(37)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCode,ifa

memberdieswhileperformingqualifiedmilitaryservice,asdefinedinSection414(u)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCode,thesurvivorsofthemembershallbeentitledtoanyadditionalbenefitsthatwouldhavebeenprovidedundertheretirementsystemhadthememberresumedhis or her prior employment with an employer that participates in the system and then terminatedemploymentonaccountofdeath.

Article1,§31485.16.-§31485.17. 44

(b)Forpurposesofthissection,“additionalbenefits”shallnotincludebenefitaccrualsrelatingtotheperiodofqualifiedmilitaryservice.

(c)Thedeathofamemberorformermemberwhileperformingqualifiedmilitaryserviceshallnotbetreatedasaservice-connecteddeathordisability.

(d)Serviceforvestingpurposesshallbecreditedtoamemberwhodieswhileperformingqualifiedmilitaryservicefortheperiodofhisorherqualifiedmilitaryservice.

(e)ThissectionshallapplytodeathsoccurringonorafterJanuary1,2007.(AddedbyStats.2010,Ch.188(AB1354),Sec.1)

§31485.18. Authorization by memorandum of understanding to adopt a resolution to require safety employees to receive a specified pension calculation (Sacramento)(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, in a county of the eighth class,

asdefinedinSections28020and28029,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,theboardofsupervisorsmay,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,ifauthorizedbyamutuallyagreeduponandnegotiatedmemorandumofunderstandingwithabargainingunitthatrepresentssafetyemployees,requireasafetyemployeeofthatbargainingunitfirsthiredafterapprovaloftheresolution,andmayalsorequireanunrepresentedsafetyemployeefirsthiredafterapprovaloftheresolution,toreceiveapensioncalculationprovidedinSection31664.2,withahighestcompensationperioddeterminedpursuanttoSection31462,andwithacost-of-livingadjustmentprovidedinSection31870.

(b)Theresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a)mayprovideadifferentformulaorcalculationofretirementbenefitsfornewsafetymembersinonebargainingunitornewunrepresentedsafetymembersthanthatprovidedfornewsafetymembersofotherbargainingunitsornewunrepresentedsafetymembers.

(AddedbyStats.2011,Ch.26(AB329),Sec.1–UrgencyStatute,EffectiveJune13,2011)

Article 1.4Alternative Plan for Counties of the 16th Class (Santa Barbara)

(Article1.4addedbyStats.1984,Ch.968,Sec.1,EffectiveSeptember10,1984)

§31486. Designation as Retirement Plan 2; purpose, application of article and other laws (Santa Barbara)(a)TheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallbeknownasRetirementPlan2.(b)Thisarticleshallbeapplicableintheretirementsystemofanycountyofthe

16thclassasdescribedbySections28020and28037,iftheboardofsupervisorsexecutesamemorandumofunderstandingwithemployeerepresentativesandadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthearticleshallbeapplicable.

(c)Thepurposeofthisarticleistoprovideanoptional,noncontributoryretirementplanforgeneralmembersasanalternativetotheprovisionsandbenefitsotherwisecontainedinthischapter.

(d)Theretirementbenefitsof(1)allgeneralmembersemployedafterthedatethisarticleismadeoperativeandwhoelecttheplancreatedbythisarticleand(2)existinggeneralmemberswhotransfertotheplanhereincreated,shallbegovernedbythisarticle.

(e)Intheeventofaconflict,thisarticleshallsupersedeandprevailoverotherprovisionsorapplicationofprovisionsotherwisecontainedinthischapter.

(f)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissubdivision,theprovisionscontainedinthischapter shall apply:

Article1,§31485.17.-Article1.4,§31486.45

(1)Article9(commencingwithSection31700)shallnotapply.(2)Article10(commencingwithSection31720)shallnotapply.(3)Article11(commencingwithSection31760)shallnotapply.(4)Article12(commencingwithSection31780)shallnotapply.(5)Article16.5(commencingwithSection31870)shallnotapply.

(g)Article15(commencingwithSection31830)shallonlybeapplicableforserviceretirement.ThoseprovisionsofArticle15dealingwithdisabilityretirement,deathbenefits,andtherequirementrelatingtothedepositofaccumulatedmembercontributionsshallnotbeapplicable.

(h)Exceptasotherwiseprovided,anymemberwhouponretirementreceivesaretirement pension calculated in accordance with sections or provisions added to this articlesubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticleshallhavehisorherpensioncalculatedunder each section or provision only for the period of time that those sections or provisions wereineffect,unlessotherwisemutuallyagreedbetweentheemployeranditsemployeerepresentatives.

(i)Unlessspecificallyotherwiseprovidedtherein,noamendmenttothisarticleenactedsubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticleshallapplytoanycountyortotheemployeesofanycountyunlessanduntilmutuallyagreedtobytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesandadoptedbymajorityresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31486.1. Definitions (Santa Barbara)Unlessthecontextotherwiserequires,thedefinitionscontainedinthissectiongovern

theconstructionofthisarticle.(a)“Board”meanstheboardofretirement.(b)“Employer”meansthecountyordistrictoragencywhoseemployersaremembersof

theretirementsystemofthecounty.(c)“Federalsystem”meanstheOldAgeandSurvivorsInsuranceprovisionsofthe

SocialSecurityAct.(d)“Finalcompensation”meanstheaverageannualcompensationearnablebyageneral

memberduringanythreeyears,whetherornotconsecutive,electedbythememberatorbeforethetimeanapplicationforretirementisfiledor,ifnoelectionismade,duringthethreeyearsinwhichthememberorformermemberlastearnedcompensationprecedingretirement.Ifamemberorformermemberhaslessthanthreeyearsofservice,finalcompensationshallbedeterminedbydividingtotalcompensationbythenumberofmonthsofservicecreditedtothememberorformermemberandmultiplyingby12.Innoeventshallfinalcompensationincludeanydisabilitybenefitsreceivedbythememberorformermemberunderadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer.

(e)“Member”or“generalmember”meansanemployeehiredonapermanentbasis,asdefinedbytheemployer,andeligibleformembershipasdefinedbytheboardinaccordancewithsubdivision(h)ofSection31527,exceptanemployeeeligiblefororemployedinapositioneligibleforsafetymembershipasdefinedinSections31470.2and31470.4.

(f)“Primaryinsuranceamount”meansthemonthlyretirementbenefitpayableunderthefederalsystemattheageof65.

(g)“Service”meanstheperiodofuninterruptedemploymentofamember.Exceptasotherwiseprovided,amembershallnotbecreditedwithserviceforanyperiodoftimeinwhichthememberisabsentfromworkwithoutpay.


Article1.4,§31486.-§31486.1. 46

§31486.2. No contributions by general members; transferees; refunds; interest; election (Santa Barbara)(a)(1)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedinSection31486.3or31486.35,thereshallbeno

generalmembers’contributionsundertheplancreatedbythisarticle.(2)Amemberwhotransferstotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallhave

refunded,withinareasonableperiodoftime,nottoexceedninemonthsfromthedateofreceiptofelectiontotransferbytheboard,themember’saccumulatedcontributions,togetherwithinterestthereon,whicharecreditedtothemember’saccount.InterestshallbecreditedtotheJune30orDecember31date,whicheverislater,immediatelyprecedingthedateoftherefundwarrant.Arefundunderthissectionshallbepayabletothemember.

(3)Amemberwhohasfiveormoreyearsofcountyserviceasdefinedinsubdivision(g)ofSection31486.1mayelecttoleavehisorhercontributionsondepositforserviceretirementbenefitsonly.

(b)(1)ExceptasprovidedinSections31486.3and31486.9andunderreciprocalprovisionsofthisarticle,amemberwhowasinpublicservicepriortobecomingamembermaynotelecttoreceivecreditinthisretirementplanforthatpublicservicetime,andmaynotreceivecreditforthatpriorpublicservice.

(2)Absencefromworkwithoutpaymaynotbeconsideredasbreakingthecontinuityofservice.

(AddedbyStats.1984,Ch.968,Sec.1,EffectiveSeptember10,1984)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.117(AB2240),Sec.3)

§31486.3. Election to make contributions and receive credit; purchase rights; contributory plan; operation of section (Santa Barbara)(a)Anactivemembergovernedbytheprovisionsofthisarticlemayelect,bywritten

noticefiledwiththeboard,tomakecontributionsandreceivecreditunderthisplanforserviceforwhichheorshewouldnototherwisebeentitledtoreceivecreditpursuanttothisarticle.

(b)Amemberwhoelectstoreceiveservicecreditpursuanttothissectionshallhavethesamepurchaserightsandshallcontributetotheretirementfundtheamountthatamemberinthecontributoryplanwishingtopurchasethesameservicewouldhavetocontribute,basedontheratesapplicabletoamemberofthecontributoryplanwiththesamedateofentryintomembership.Paymentshallbemadebylump-sumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceed10years,priortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirementor,ifapplicable,priortothedateprovidedinSection31485.7.

(c)Nomembermayreceiveanyservicecreditunderthissectionforwhichheorshehasnotcompletedpaymentpursuanttosubdivision(b)beforetheeffectivedateofhisorherretirementor,ifapplicable,beforethedateprovidedinSection31485.7.Subjecttothelimitationsoffederallaw,amemberwhohaselectedtomakepaymentsininstallmentsmaycompletepaymentbylumpsumatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.

(d)Anysumspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredtobeandadministeredascontributionsbythemember.

(e)Asusedinthissection,the“contributoryplan”meansthatcontributoryplanotherwiseavailabletonewmembersofthesystemontheelectiondate.

(f)Thissectionisnotoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorselects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.

(FormerSection31486.35wasaddedbyStats.1984,Ch.968,Sec.1,effectiveSeptember10,1984,andrepealedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.4)

(AddedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.5)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.369(SB777),Sec.2)

Article1.4,§31486.2.-§31486.3.47

§31486.35. (Operative Date Contingent) Additional Retirement Credit; Eligibility; Procedure(a)Anactivemembermayelect,bywrittennoticefiledwiththeboard,tomake

contributionspursuanttothissectionandtoreceiveuptofiveyearsofservicecreditintheretirementsystemforadditionalretirementcredit,ifthememberhascompletedatleastfiveyearsofcreditedservicewiththatretirementsystem.

(b)Asusedinthissection,“additionalretirementcredit”meanstimethatdoesnototherwisequalifyascountyservice,publicservice,militaryservice,medicalleaveofabsence,oranyothertimerecognizedforservicecreditbytheretirementsystem.

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, service credit for additional retirementcreditmaynotbecountedtomeettheminimumqualificationsforserviceretirementorforpurposesofestablishingeligibilityforbenefitsbasedon30yearsofservice,additionaladhoccost-of-livingbenefitsbasedonservicecredit,healthcarebenefits,oranyotherbenefitsbaseduponservicecredit.

(d)Amemberwhoelectstomakecontributionsandreceiveservicecreditforadditionalretirementcreditshallcontributetotheretirementfund,priortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement,bylump-sumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceed10years,anamountthat,atthetimeofcommencementofpurchase,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,issufficienttonotplaceanyadditionalfinancialburdenupontheretirementsystem.

(e)Nomembermayreceiveservicecreditunderthissectionforadditionalretirementcreditthatheorshehasnotcompletedpaymentpursuanttosubdivision(d)beforetheeffectivedateofhisorherretirementor,ifapplicable,priortothedateprovidedinSection31485.7.SubjecttothelimitationsofUnitedStatesInternalRevenueServiceregulations,amemberwhohaselectedtomakepaymentininstallmentsmaycompletepaymentbylumpsumatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.

(f)Sumspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredtobeandadministeredascontributionsbythemember.

(g)Thissectionisnotoperativeinacountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(AddedStats.2006,Ch.117(AB2240),Sec.4,operativedatecontingent)

§31486.36. Death of member; Payment of contributions to member’s beneficiariesUponthedeathofanactiveorformermemberoftheplanestablishedbythisarticle,an

amountequaltotheaccumulatedcontributionsmadebythememberpursuanttothisarticle,withinterestonthatamount,shallbepaidtothemember’sbeneficiaries.

(AddedStats.2008,Ch.72(AB2041),Sec.1)

§31486.4. Retirement; time of vesting; eligibility; application; benefits (Santa Barbara)(a)Retirementofamemberorformermemberwhohasmettherequirementsforage

andserviceshallbemadebytheboard,atwhichtimethememberorformermemberbecomesaretiredmember.

(b)Anymemberwhohascompleted10yearsofserviceshallbevestedundertheplancreatedbythisarticle.

(c)Anyvestedmemberorvestedformermemberwhohasattainedtheageof65yearsmayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplicationonaformprovidedbytheboardfornormalretirementsettingforththedesiredeffectiveretirementdate.

(d)Anyvestedmemberorvestedformermemberwhohasattainedtheageof55yearsmayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplicationonaformprovidedbytheboardforearlyretirementsettingforththedesiredeffectiveretirementdate.

Article1.4,§31486.35.-§31486.4. 48

(e)Thenormalretirementpensionshallconsistofanannualallowancepayableinmonthlyinstallmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberequalto2percentofhisorherfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicetotheprecedingcompletedmonthtowhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,nottoexceed35years,addedto1percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofserviceinexcessof35,nottoexceed10years,reducedbytheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount,ifany,multipliedbythefractionofthenumberofyearsofservicewiththeemployersubjecttocoverageunderthefederalsystem,nottoexceed35years,dividedby35.

Innoeventshallthenormalretirementpension,whenaddedtotheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount,exceed70percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationunlesstheyearsofservicetowhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirementexceeds35,inwhichcasethe normal retirement pension, when added to the estimated primary insurance amount, shall notexceed80percentofthemember’sfinalcompensation.

(f)Theearlyretirementpensionshallconsistofanannualallowancepayableinmonthlyinstallmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberinanamountwhichistheactuarialequivalentofthenormalretirementpensiontowhichtheretiredmemberwouldbeentitledifotherwiseeligiblefornormalretirement,whichshallbecomputedbymultiplyingthenormalretirementpensionbytheearlyretirementadjustmentfactorsetforthoppositethemember’sageasofthebirthdayimmediatelyprecedingthedateoftheretirement,inthefollowingtable:

Age ERA Factor 55 .39 56 .43 57 .47 58 .51 59 .56 60 .61 61 .67 62 .74 63 .82 64 .90

TheERAFactorssetforthinthissubdivisionshallbeuseduntiladjustedbytheboardinaccordancewiththeinterestandmortalitytablesadoptedbytheboard.

(g)Theboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,shallestablishandadjust,asrequired,thetableofestimatedprimaryinsuranceamounts,whichshallbeutilizedincomputingtheretirementbenefit.Forpurposesofthisarticle,theprimaryinsuranceamountshallbeestimatedbasedontheemployee’sageandsalaryasofthedateofretirementorthedateofterminationofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicableprovidedthat:

(1)Anemployee’spriorcareerearningsshallbeassumedtohavebeensubjecttothefederalsystemandtohaveincreasedonayear-to-yearbasisatarateequivalenttotherateofincreaseintheaverageperworkertotalwagesreportedbytheSocialSecurityAdministration,and

(2)Forthosememberswhohavenotattainedthenormalretirementageunderthefederalsystemasofthedateofretirement(i)futureearningsinemploymentcoveredbythefederalsystemshallbeassumedtocontinueattherateofpayreceivedbytheemployeefromtheemployerasofthedateofretirementorthedateofterminationofavestedmember,whichisapplicable,and(ii)futurewagebases,asdefinedbythefederalsystem,shallbeassumedtocontinueatthewagebaseineffectintheyearofretirementortheyearofterminationofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicable,and(iii)cost-of-livingincreasesintheyearofretirementanddelayedretirementcreditprovidedunderthefederalsystemshallnotbe

Article1.4,§31486.4.49

includedinthecalculationoftheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount.(h)Theemployershallcertifytheyearsofservicetobecreditedatretirementandthe

finalcompensationtobeutilizedincomputingthenormalandearlyretirementpension.(i)Atthetimeofapplicationforretirement,thememberorformermembershallprovide

adequateproof(1)ofageand(2)oftheeligibilityofpersons,ifany,whoatthattimewouldotherwisequalifyforthesurvivorallowanceprovidedforinSection31492.

(j)Notwithstandingsubdivision(e)ofSection31491,anyretiredmemberreceivinganormalretirementpensionshall,assoonaspossiblebutnotlaterthansixmonthsfollowingretirement,presentevidencerequiredbytheboardoftheretiredmember’sactualprimaryinsuranceamount.Forpurposesofthissubdivision,theactualprimaryinsuranceamountshallbetheamountpayableunderthefederalsystemontheretiredmember’sdateofretirementwithoutregardtodelayedretirementcreditoranydeductionsonaccountofwork.Followingreceiptofthatevidence,theboardshalladjusttheretiredmember’spensionfromthedateofretirementtoequaltheamountofthepensiontowhichheorshewouldhavebeenentitledonthatdatehadtheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountequaledtheactualprimaryinsuranceamount.


§31486.5. Modification election to coordinate with federal pension (Santa Barbara)Amemberwhoretiresforservicepriortotheageofbecomingeligibleforbenefits

describedunderthesubdivision(f)ofSection31486.1may,withtheapprovaloftheboard,electtohavetheretirementpensionincreasedpriortotheeligibleageandreducedafterthatagebyamountswhichhaveequivalentactuarialvalues.Thismodificationisforthepurposeofcoordinatingamember’sretirementpensionwiththatreceivedfromthefederalsystem.

(AddedbyStats.1984.Ch.968,Sec.1,EffectiveSeptember10,1984)

§31486.6. Death benefits; election for lower pension to obtain different survivor allowance (Santa Barbara)(a)Uponthedeathofaretiredmember,50percentoftheretirementpension,ifnot

modifiedinaccordancewiththeoptionalsurvivorallowanceinsubdivision(c),shallbecontinued during and throughout the life of his or her surviving spouse, if he or she was marriedtothememberatleastoneyearpriortothedateofretirement.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtothisallowance,orifheorshediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedretiredmember,includingstepchildoradoptedchild,attainstheageof18years,thentheallowancethatthesurvivingspousewouldhavereceivedhadsheorhelived,shallbepaidtothedeceasedretiredmember’schildorchildrenundertheageof18years.Ifthesurvivorallowanceistobepaidtosurvivingchildren,theallowanceshallbedividedamongthechildreninequalamounts.However,therightofanychildtoshareintheallowanceshallceaseuponthedeathormarriageofthechildoruponthechildattainingtheageof18years.

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissubdivision,theallowanceotherwisepayabletothechildrenoftheretiredmembershallbepaidtothechildrenthroughtheageof21years,ifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanyaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(b)If,uponthedeathofaretiredmember,thereisnosurvivingspouseorchildentitledtotheallowanceunderthissection,andthetotalretirementallowanceincomereceivedbythememberduringhisorherlifetimedidnotexceedhisorheraccumulatednormalcontributions,ifany,themember’sdesignatedbeneficiaryshallbepaidanamountequaltotheexcessofhisorheraccumulatednormalcontributionsoverhisorhertotalretirementallowanceincome.

(c)Avestedmember,orvestedformermember,inlieuofthenormalorearlyretirement

Article1.4,§31486.4.-§31486.6. 50

pensionfortheretiredmember’slifealone,mayelecttohavetheactuarialequivalentoftheretiredmember’spensionasofthedateofretirementappliedtoalesseramountpayablethroughouttheretiredmember’slife,andthereaftertohaveasurvivorallowanceasapprovedbytheboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,continuedthroughoutthelifeofandpaidtothepersonorpersonshavinganinsurableinterestinthelifeoftheretiredmember,asthememberorformermembernominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboardatthetimeofretirement.

(d)Designationspursuanttosubdivision(c)shallnot,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,placeanyadditionalburdenupontheretirementsystem.

(AddedbyStats.1984,Ch.968,Sec.1,EffectiveSeptember10,1984)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.6)

§31486.7. Death benefits; death of member before retirement while in service (Santa Barbara)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisions,uponthedeathofamemberbeforeretirement

whileinservice,thedesignatedbeneficiaryshallreceiveadeathbenefitequaltoonemonth’sfinalcompensationasdefinedinsubdivision(d)ofSection31486.1foreachyearofservicecompleteduptoamaximumofsixmonths.


§31486.8. Employment subsequent to effective date of article; certification of election of plan (Santa Barbara)Anypersonemployedsubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticlewhowould

otherwisequalifyasamembershallnotbecomeamemberuntilthatpersoncertifiestotheboardanelectiontobecoveredbytheretirementplanestablishedbythisarticleortobecoveredbytheretirementprovisionsandbenefitsotherwiseavailabletomembersonthedateprecedingtheeffectivedateofthisarticle.Asaconditionofcontinuedemployment,thecertificationshallbemadewithin60daysofemployment.Theemployershallmakeavailabletothepersonadisclosureoftheelementsofeachoftheavailableretirementplanspriortoacceptingtheelection.


§31486.9. Transfer to Plan 2 by general members (Santa Barbara)(a)Generalmembersmay,within180daysoftheeffectivedateofthisarticle,electto

transfertotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleuponproperapplicationexecutedbythememberandfiledwiththeboard.Thetransferisvoluntaryandshallbeirrevocable.

(b)Theretirementbenefitsofthetransferredmembersaregovernedanddefinedbythisarticle.

(c)Transferringmembersrelinquishandwaiveanyandallpreviouslyavailablevestedoraccruedretirement,survivor,disabilityanddeathbenefits.However,notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthisarticle,atransferringmembermayelecttoreceivecreditandaretirementbenefitasdeterminedbytheformerretirementsystemforpublicservicecreditreceivedbyleavingcontributionsondepositorarefundofcontributionsandrelinquishpublicservicecredit.


§31486.10. Election to transfer to contributory retirement plan (Santa Barbara)Amemberuponbecomingvestedunderthisarticlemayelecttoterminateand

deferaccruedbenefitsforthepurposeoffutureserviceretirementbenefitsonly,andentermembershipofthecontributoryretirementprovisionsineffectfornewmembersatthetimeof

Article1.4,§31486.6.-§31486.10.51

transfer.Notwithstandinganyotherprovisions,therateofcontributionsshallbebasedonagenearestbirthdayatthetimeofelectiontotransfer.


§31486.11. Employer contribution (Santa Barbara)Untilthecompletionofthenextregularlyscheduledactuarialsurveyoftheretirement

system,theemployercontributionrequiredtofinancetheplancreatedbythisarticleshallbeestablishedbytheboard,upontherecommendationoftheactuary.


§31486.12. Severability (Santa Barbara)Ifanyprovisionofthisarticle,ortheapplicationthereof,toanypersonorcircumstances,

is held invalid, the invalidity shall not affect other provisions or application of the article which canbegiveneffectwithouttheinvalidprovisionsorapplicationand,tothisendtheprovisionsofthisarticleareseverable.

(AddedbyStats.1984.Ch.968,Sec.1,EffectiveSeptember10,1984)

Article 1.5Alternative Plan for Counties with Populations in Excess of Six Million (Los Angeles)

(Article1.5addedbyStats.1981,Ch.910,Sec.1,EffectiveSeptember28,1981.ApplicableasprescribedbySection31487)

§31487. Designation as Retirement Plan E; application of article; purpose; application of other laws (Los Angeles)(a)TheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallbeknownasRetirementPlanE.(b)Thisarticleshallbeapplicableintheretirementsystemofanycountywitha

populationinexcessofsixmillion,iftheboardofsupervisorsexecutesamemorandumofunderstandingwithemployeerepresentativesandadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthearticleshallbeapplicable.

(c)Thepurposeofthisarticleistoprovideanoptional,noncontributoryretirementforgeneralmembersasanalternativetotheprovisionsandbenefitsotherwisecontainedinthischapter.



(f)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedbelow,theprovisionscontainedinthischaptershallapply:

(1)Article9(commencingwithSection31700)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(2)Article10(commencingwithSection31720)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(3)Article11(commencingwithSection31760)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(4)Article12(commencingwithSection31780)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(5)Article16.5(commencingwithSection31870)ofthischaptershallnotbe

applicable.(g)Article15(commencingwithSection31830)dealingwithreciprocalbenefitsshallbe

Article1.4,§31486.10.-Article1.5,§31487. 52

applicable,excludingthoseprovisionsdealingwithdisabilityretirement,deathbenefits,andtherequirementrelatingtothedepositofaccumulatedmembercontributions.

(h)Anyamendmentstoormodificationsofthischaptersubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticleshallnotaffecttheprovisionsofthisarticleunlessmutuallyagreedtobytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesandadoptedbymajorityresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.

(i)Exceptasotherwiseprovided,anymemberwhouponretirementreceivesaretirement pension calculated in accordance with sections or provisions added to this article subsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticleshallhavehisorherpensioncalculatedundereach such section or provision only for the period of time that those sections or provisions wereineffect,unlessotherwisemutuallyagreedbetweentheemployeranditsemployeerepresentatives.


§31488. Definitions (Los Angeles)Unlessthecontextotherwiserequires,thedefinitionscontainedinthissection,govern

theconstructionofthisarticle.(a)Asusedinsubdivisions(f)and(g)ofSection31491,subdivisions(b)and(c)of

Section31492,andSection31495,“board”meanstheboardofinvestments.Inallothercases,“board”meanstheboardofretirement.

(b)“Employer”meansthecountyordistrictoragencywhoseemployeesaremembersoftheretirementsystemofthecounty.

(c)“Federalsystem”meanstheOldAgeandSurvivorsInsuranceprovisionsoftheSocialSecurityAct.

(d)“Finalcompensation”meanstheaverageannualcompensationearnablebyageneralmemberduringanythreeyears,whetherornotconsecutive,electedbythememberatorbeforethetimeanapplicationforretirementisfiledor,ifnoelectionismade,duringthethreeyearsinwhichthememberorformermemberlastearnedcompensationprecedingretirement.Ifamemberorformermemberhaslessthanthreeyearsofservice,finalcompensationshallbedeterminedbydividingtotalcompensationbythenumberofmonthsofservicecreditedtothememberorformermemberandmultiplyingby12.Innoeventshallfinalcompensationincludeanydisabilitybenefitsreceivedbythememberorformermemberunderadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer.

(e)“Member”or“generalmember”meansanemployeehiredonamonthlypermanentbasisofatleastthree-quartertime,asdefinedbytheemployer,exceptanemployeeeligibleforsafetymembership.

(f)“Primaryinsuranceamount”meansthemonthlyretirementbenefitpayableunderthefederalsystemattheageatwhichfullretirementbenefitsareavailableunderthefederalsystem.Thisageisdeemedtobeage65untilJune30,1983.

(g)“Service”meanstheperiodofuninterruptedemploymentofamemberandthetimeinwhichamemberorformermember(1)istotallydisabled,and(2)isreceivingdisabilitybenefitsoriseligibletoreceivedisabilitybenefitseitherduringorafteranyeliminationorqualifyingperiod,underadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer.

Exceptasotherwisehereinprovided,amembershallnotbecreditedwithserviceforanypayrollperiodinwhichnocompensationisreceivedbythemember.Unlessotherwiseprovided,serviceshallnotincludemilitaryserviceorpublicserviceotherthanservicewiththeemployer.


Article1.5,§31487.-§31488.53

§31489. Contributions; none by general members; transferees; refunds; interest (Los Angeles)(a)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedinSection31490.5or31490.6,thereshallbenogeneral

members’contributionsundertheplancreatedbythisarticle.(b)Amemberwhotransferstotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallhave

refunded,withinareasonableperiodoftime,nottoexceedninemonthsfromthedateofreceiptofelectiontotransferbytheboard,themember’saccumulatedcontributions,togetherwithinterestthereon,whicharecreditedtothemember’saccount.InterestshallbecreditedtotheJune30orDecember31date,whicheverislater,immediatelyprecedingthedateoftherefundwarrant.Arefundunderthissectionshallbepayabletothemember.


§31490. Credit for prior public service; absence from work or termination of employment; effect on continuity of service (Los Angeles)(a)ExceptasprovidedinSections31490.5and31494,andunderreciprocalprovisionsof

thisarticle,amemberwhowasinpublicservicepriortobecomingamembermaynotelecttoreceivecreditinthisretirementplanforthatpublicservicetime,andshallnotreceivecreditforthatpriorpublicservice.

(b)Absencefromworkorterminationofemploymentwhileaneligibleemployeeordisabilitybeneficiary,asdefinedbyadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer,shallnotbeconsideredasbreakingthecontinuityofservice.

(c)Forthepurposesofsubdivision(b)ofSection31491,anunpaidleaveofabsenceofnottoexceedoneyear,oraleaveofabsenceforwhichanemployeereceivesanybenefitthathasbeenapprovedbytheemployer,shallnotbeconsideredaninterruptionofservice.However,apayrollperiodinwhichnocompensationisreceivedbyamembershallnotbeconsideredasserviceincalculatingthebenefitsotherwiseprovidedunderthisarticle.


§31490.5. (Operative date contingent) Contributions; Service credit(a)Anactivemembergovernedbytheprovisionsofthisarticlemayelect,bywritten

noticefiledwiththeboard,tomakecontributionsandreceivecreditunderthisplanforserviceforwhichheorshewouldnototherwisebeentitledtoreceivecreditpursuanttothisarticle.

(b)Anymemberwhoelectstoreceiveservicecreditpursuanttothissectionshallhavethesamepurchaserightsandshallcontributetotheretirementfundtheamountthatamemberinthecontributoryplanwishingtopurchasethesameservicewouldhavetocontribute,basedontheratesapplicabletoamemberofthecontributoryplanwiththesamedateofentryintomembership.Paymentshallbemadebylump-sumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceed10years,priortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirementor,ifapplicable,priortothedateprovidedinSection31485.8.

(c)Nomembermayreceiveanyservicecreditunderthissectionforwhichheorshehasnotcompletedpaymentpursuanttosubdivision(b)beforetheeffectivedateofhisorherretirementor,ifapplicable,beforethedateprovidedinSection31485.8.Subjecttothelimitationsoffederallaw,amemberwhohaselectedtomakepaymentsininstallmentsmaycompletepaymentbylumpsumatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.

(d)Anysumspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredtobeandadministeredascontributionsbythemember.

(e)Asusedinthissection,the“contributoryplan”meansthatcontributoryplan

Article1.5,§31489.-§31490.5. 54

otherwiseavailabletonewmembersofthesystemontheelectiondate.(f)Thissectionisnotoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorselects,byresolution

adoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.(AddedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.9)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.369(SB777),Sec.3)

§31490.6. Election to make contributions and receive additional retirement credit; use of additional retirement credit; additional payments and contributions; operation and application of section(a)Anactivemembermayelect,bywrittennoticefiledwiththeboard,tomake



(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, service credit for additional retirementcreditmaynotbecountedtomeettheminimumqualificationsforserviceretirementorforpurposesofestablishingeligibilityforbenefitsbasedon30yearsofservice,additionaladhoccost-of-livingbenefitsbasedonservicecredit,healthcarebenefits,oranyotherbenefitsbaseduponservicecredit.

(d)Amemberwhoelectstomakecontributionsandreceiveservicecreditforadditionalretirementcreditshallcontributetotheretirementfund,priortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement,bylump-sumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceed10years,anamountthat,atthetimeofcommencementofpurchase,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,issufficienttonotplaceanyadditionalfinancialburdenupontheretirementsystem.

(e)Nomembermayreceiveservicecreditunderthissectionforadditionalretirementcreditthatheorshehasnotcompletedpaymentpursuanttosubdivision(d)beforetheeffectivedateofhisorherretirementor,ifapplicable,priortothedateprovidedinSection31485.8.SubjecttothelimitationsofUnitedStatesInternalRevenueServiceregulations,amemberwhohaselectedtomakepaymentininstallmentsmaycompletepaymentbylumpsumatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.

(f)Sumspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredtobeandadministeredascontributionsbythemember.

(g)Thissectionisnotoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativeinthecounty.

(h)PursuanttoSection7522.46,thissectionshallapplyonlytoanapplicationtopurchaseadditionalretirementcreditthatwasreceivedbytheretirementsystempriortoJanuary1,2013,thatissubsequentlyapprovedbythesystem.


§31490.7. Death of active member of retirement plan established by this article; contributions paid to beneficiariesUponthedeathofanactiveorformermemberoftheplanestablishedbythisarticle,an

amountequaltotheaccumulatedcontributionsmadebythememberpursuanttothisarticle,withinterestonthatamount,shallbepaidtothemember’sbeneficiaries.


Article1.5,§31490.5.-§31490.7.55

§31491. Retirement; time of vesting; eligibility; application; benefits (Los Angeles)(a)Retirementofamemberorformermemberwhohasmettherequirementsforage





(e)Thenormalretirementpensionshallconsistofanannualallowancepayableinmonthlyinstallmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberequalto2percentofhisorherfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicetotheprecedingcompletedmonthtowhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,nottoexceed35years,addedto1percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofserviceinexcessof35,nottoexceed10years,reducedbytheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount,ifany,multipliedbythefractionofthenumberofyearsofservicewiththeemployersubjecttocoverageunderthefederalsystem,nottoexceed35years,dividedby35.


(f)Theearlyretirementpensionshallconsistofanannualallowancepayableinmonthlyinstallmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberinanamountwhichistheactuarialequivalentofthenormalretirementpensiontowhichtheretiredmemberwouldbeentitledifotherwiseeligiblefornormalretirement,whichshallbecomputedbymultiplyingthenormalretirementpensionbytheearlyretirementadjustmentfactorsetforthoppositethemember’sageasofthebirthdayimmediatelyprecedingthedateofretirement,inthefollowingtable:

Age ERA Factor 55 .39 56 .43 57 .47 58 .51 59 .56 60 .61 61 .67 62 .74 63 .82 64 .90

TheERAfactorssetforthinthissubdivisionshallbeuseduntiladjustedbytheboardinaccordancewiththeinterestandmortalitytablesadoptedbytheboard.

(g)Theboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,shallestablishandadjust,asrequired,thetableofestimatedprimaryinsuranceamounts,whichshallbeutilizedincomputingtheretirementbenefit.Forpurposesofthisarticle,theprimaryinsuranceamountshallbeestimatedbasedontheemployee’sageandsalaryasofthedateofretirementorthedateofterminationofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicable,providedthat:

Article1.5,§31491. 56


(2)Forthosememberswhohavenotattainedthenormalretirementageunderthefederalsystemasofthedateofretirement(i)futureearningsinemploymentcoveredbythefederalsystemshallbeassumedtocontinueattherateofpayreceivedbytheemployeefromtheemployerasofthedateofretirementorthedateofterminationofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicable,and(ii)futurewagebases,asdefinedbythefederalsystem,shallbeassumedtocontinueatthewagebaseineffectintheyearofretirementortheyearofterminationofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicable,and(iii)cost-of-livingincreasesintheyearofretirementanddelayedretirementcreditprovidedunderthefederalsystemshallnotbeincludedinthecalculationoftheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount.

(h)Theemployershallcertifytheyearsofservicetobecreditedatretirementandthefinalcompensationtobeutilizedincomputingthenormalandearlyretirementpension.

(i)Atthetimeofapplicationforretirement,thememberorformermembershallprovideadequateproof(1)ofageand(2)oftheeligibilityofpersons,ifany,whoatthattimewouldotherwisequalifyforthesurvivorallowanceprovidedforinSection31492.

(j)Notwithstandingsubdivision(e)ofSection31491,anyretiredmemberreceivinganormalretirementpensionshall,assoonaspossiblebutnotlaterthansixmonthsfollowingretirement,presentevidencerequiredbytheboardoftheretiredmember’sactualprimaryinsuranceamount.Forpurposesofthissubdivision,theactualprimaryinsuranceamountshallbetheamountpayableunderthefederalsystemontheretiredmember’sdateofretirementwithoutregardtodelayedretirementcreditoranydeductionsonaccountofwork.Followingreceiptofthatevidence,theboardshalladjusttheretiredmember’spensionfromthedateofretirementtoequaltheamountofthepensiontowhichheorshewouldhavebeenentitledonthatdatehadtheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountequaledtheactualprimaryinsuranceamount.


§31491.1. Adjustment of member’s retirement benefit according to member’s actual primary insurance amount (Los Angeles)(a)NotwithstandingSection31491,anyretiredmemberreceivingaretirementpension

maypresentevidenceintheformrequiredbytheboardoftheretiredmember’sactualprimaryinsuranceamount.Forthepurposesofthissection,theactualprimaryinsuranceamountshallbetheamountbeingpaidunderthefederalsystem.Followingreceiptofthatevidence,theboardshalladjusttheretiredmember’spensiontoequaltheamountofthepensiontowhichheorshewouldhavebeenentitledonthatdatehadtheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountequaledtheactualinsuranceamount.

(b)Theadjustmentcalculatedinsubdivision(a)shallbeappliedtotheretiredmember’spensionbeginninginthemonthuponwhichtheretiredmemberpresentsevidencerequiredbytheboard.

(c)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicable.


§31491.2. Adjustment of member’s retirement benefit according to member’s federal estimated primary insurance amount (Los Angeles)(a)NotwithstandingSection31491,anyretiredmemberreceivingaretirementpension

Article1.5,§31491.-§31491.2.57

maypresentevidenceintheformrequiredbytheboardoftheretiredmember’sfederalestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountprovidedthattheretiredmemberisnotreceivingafederalprimaryinsuranceamount.Forthepurposesofthissection,thefederalestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountshallbetheamountpayableunderthefederalsystemasoftheretiredmember’snormalfederalretirementage.Shouldthefederalestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountequalzero,theretiredmembershallnothavehisorherpensionbenefitreducedforanestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountasrequiredinsubdivision(e)ofSection31491.

(b)Followingreceiptofthatevidence,theboardshalladjusttheretiredmember’spensiontoequaltheamountofthepensiontowhichheorshewouldhavebeenentitledonthatdatehadtheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountcalculatedinSection31491equaledzero.

(c)Theadjustmentcalculatedinsubdivision(a)shallbeappliedtotheretiredmember’spensionbeginninginthemonthuponwhichtheretiredmemberpresentsevidencerequiredbytheboard.

(d)Notwithstandingsubdivision(a),uponattainingfederalretirementage,theretiredmembershallsubmitanyevidenceasmayberequiredbytheboardoftheretiredmembers’federalestimatedoractualprimaryinsuranceamount.Followingreceiptofthatevidence,theboardshalladjusttheretiredmember’spensioninaccordancewithsubdivision(j)ofSection31491.

(e)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicable.


§31491.3. Early retirement pension; amount; members who have and have not attained age of 62 years; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)Notwithstandingsubdivision(f)ofSection31491,forthosemembersretiringonor

after the operative date of this section, the early retirement pension shall consist of an annual allowancepayableinmonthlyinstallmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberinanamountthatistheactuarialequivalentofthenormalretirementpensiontowhichtheretiredmemberwouldbeentitledifotherwiseeligiblefornormalretirement,whichshallbecomputedbymultiplyingthenormalretirementpensionbytheearlyretirementadjustmentfactorsetforthoppositethemember’sageasofthebirthdayimmediatelyprecedingthedateofretirement,inthefollowingtable:

Age ERA Factor 55 .3748 56 .4109 57 .4511 58 .4957 59 .5454 60 .6009 61 .6631 62 .7328 63 .8113 64 .8998

(b)Forthosemembersretiringonoraftertheoperativedateofthissection,paragraph(2)ofsubdivision(g)ofSection31491shallnotapply,butwithregardtothosememberswhohavenotattainedtheageof62yearsasofthedateofretirement(1)futureearningsinemploymentcoveredbythefederalsystemshallbeassumedtocontinueattherateof

Article1.5,§31491.2.-§31491.3. 58

payreceivedbytheemployeefromtheemployerasofthedateofretirementorthedateofterminationofemploymentofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicable,untilthememberattainstheageof62years,and(2)futurewagebases,asdefinedbythefederalsystem,shallbeassumedtocontinueatthewagebaseineffectintheyearofretirementortheyearofterminationofemploymentofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicable,untilthememberattainstheageof62years,and(3)cost-of-livingincreasesintheyearofretirementanddelayedretirementcreditprovidedunderthefederalsystemshallnotbeincludedinthecalculationoftheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount.

(c)Notwithstandingsubdivision(e)orsubdivision(j)ofSection31491,anymemberwhoretiresonoraftertheoperativedateofthissection,andafterattainingtheageof62yearsmay,assoonaspossiblebutnotlaterthansixmonthsfollowingretirement,presentevidencerequiredbytheboarddemonstratingtheretiredmember’sactualprimaryinsuranceamount.Forpurposesofthissubdivision,theactualprimaryinsuranceamountshallbetheamountactuallypayableunderthefederalsystemontheretiredmember’sdateofretirementwithoutregardtodelayedretirementcreditoranydeductionsonaccountofwork,ortheestimateofthatamountassetforthonacurrentearningsandbenefitsestimatestatementprovidedbytheSocialSecurityAdministration.Followingreceiptofthatevidence,theboardshalladjusttheretiredmember’spensionfromthedateofretirementtoequaltheamountofthepensiontowhichheorshewouldhavebeenentitledonthatdatehadtheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountequaledtheactualprimaryinsuranceamount.

(d)ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoLosAngelesCountyandshallnotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyelects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.


§31492. Death benefits; election for lower pension to obtain different survivor allowance (Los Angeles)(a)(1)Uponthedeathofaretiredmember,50percentoftheretirementpension,ifnot

modifiedinaccordancewiththeoptionalsurvivorallowanceinsubdivision(b),(c)or(d),shallbecontinuedduringandthroughoutthelifeofhisorhersurvivingspouse,ifsheorhewasmarriedtothememberatleastoneyearpriortothedateofretirement.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtothisallowance,orifheorshediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedretiredmember,includingeverystepchildoradoptedchild,attainstheageof18years,thentheallowancethatthespousewouldhavereceivedhadsheorhesurvived,shallbepaidtothedeceasedretiredmember’schildorchildrenundertheageof18years.Ifthesurvivorallowanceistobepaidtosurvivingchildren,itshallbedividedamongthechildreninequalshares.However,therightofanychildtoshareintheallowanceshallceaseuponhisorherdeath,marriage,oruponattainingtheageof18years.

(2)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissubdivision,theallowanceotherwisepayabletothechildrenoftheretiredmembershallbepaidtothechildrenthroughtheageof21years,ifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanyaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(b)If,uponthedeathofaretiredmember,thereisnosurvivingspouseorchildentitledtotheallowanceunderthissection,andthetotalretirementallowanceincomereceivedbythememberduringhisorherlifetimedidnotequalorexceedhisorheraccumulatednormalcontributions,ifany,themember’sdesignatedbeneficiaryshallbepaidanamountequaltotheexcessofhisorheraccumulatednormalcontributionsoverhisorhertotalretirementallowanceincome.

Article1.5,§31491.3.-§31492.59

(c)(1)Avestedmember,orvestedformermember,inlieuoftheretirementallowanceandsurvivorallowance,ifany,otherwisepayabletoaretiredmemberandhisorhersurvivingspousepursuanttothisarticle,mayelecttohavetheactuarialequivalentofthesebenefits,asofthedateofretirement,appliedtoalesseramountpayablethroughouttheretiredmember’slifeandtoanincreasedsurvivorallowanceasapprovedbytheboard,upontheadviceofthe actuary, continued throughout the life of and paid to his or her surviving spouse, if he orshewasmarriedtothememberatleastoneyearpriortothedateofretirement.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtothisallowance,orifheorshediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedretiredmember,includingeverystepchildandadoptedchild,attainstheageof18years, then the increased survivor allowance that the spouse would have received had he or she survivedshallbepaidtothedeceasedretiredmember’schildorchildrenundertheageof18years.Iftheincreasedsurvivorallowanceistobepaidtosurvivingchildren,itshallbedividedamongthechildreninequalshares.However,therightofanychildtoshareintheallowanceshallceaseuponhisorherdeath,marriage,orattainingtheageof18years.

(2)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthissubdivision,theincreasedallowanceotherwisepayabletothechildrenoftheretiredmembershallbepaidtothechildrenthroughtheageof21yearsifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanyaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(3)Theelectionpursuanttothissubdivisionmaynot,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,placeanyadditionalburdenupontheretirementsystem.Ifamembermakestheelection,themember’snormalorearlyretirementbenefitshallbereducedbytheadditionalactuarialcosttothesystemresultingfromtheincreasedsurvivorallowance.Theactuarialcostofthesurvivorallowancepayableunderthissubdivisionshallbecalculatedtakingintoaccountthelifeexpectancyofthemember’ssurvivingspouse.

(4)Thissubdivisionisnotoperativeunlessthecountyboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissubdivisionoperativeinthecounty.Thissubdivisionappliesonlytomemberswhoretireaftertheoperativedateofthissubdivision.

(d)Avestedmember,orvestedformermember,inlieuofthenormalorearlyretirementpensionfortheretiredmember’slifealoneandthesurvivorallowance,ifany,thatwouldbepayableundersubdivision(a)or(c),mayelecttohavetheactuarialequivalentoftheretiredmember’spensionasofthedateofretirementappliedtoalesseramountpayablethroughouttheretiredmember’slife,andtoasurvivorallowanceasapprovedbytheboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,that,uponthedeathoftheretiredmember,shallcontinuethroughoutthelifeofandbepaidtothepersonorpersonshavinganinsurableinterestinthelifeoftheretiredmember,asthememberorformermembernominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboardatthetimeofretirement.Themember’snormalorearlyretirementbenefitshallbereducedbytheactuarialcostofthesurvivorallowanceelected.

(AddedbyStats.1981,Ch.910,Sec.1,EffectiveSeptember28,1981)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.152(SB1260),Sec.1)

§31492.1. Monthly survivor allowance; amount for members retiring on or after operative date of section; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)NotwithstandingtheprovisionsofSection31492,eachmonthlysurvivorallowance

paidpursuanttosubdivision(a)ofSection31492onaccountofamemberwhoretiresonoraftertheoperativedateofthissectionshallbeequalto55percentoftheretirementpension,ifnotmodifiedinaccordancewiththeoptionalsurvivorallowanceinsubdivision(c)or(d)ofthatsection.

(b)ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoLosAngelesCountyandshallnotbecome

Article1.5,§31492.-§31492.1. 60

operativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyelects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.


(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.152(SB1260),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2005,Ch.22(SB1108),Sec.89)

§31492.2. Monthly survivor allowance; amount for members retiring before operative date of section; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)NotwithstandingtheprovisionsofSection31492,eachmonthlysurvivorallowance

paidonoraftertheoperativedateofthissectionpursuanttosubdivision(a)ofSection31492onaccountofamemberwhoretiresbeforetheoperativedateofthissectionshallbeequalto55percentoftheretirementpension,ifnotmodifiedinaccordancewiththeoptionalsurvivorallowanceinsubdivision(b)ofthatsection.

(b)ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoLosAngelesCountyandshallnotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyelects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.


§31493. Employment subsequent to effective date of article; certification of election of plan (Los Angeles)(a)Anypersonemployedsubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticlewhowould

otherwisequalifyasamembershallnotbecomeamemberuntilheorshecertifiestotheboardhisorherelectiontobecoveredbytheretirementplanestablishedbythisarticleortobecoveredbytheretirementprovisionsandbenefitsotherwiseavailabletomembersonthedateprecedingtheeffectivedateofthisarticle.Asaconditionofcontinuedemployment,thecertificationshallbemadewithin60daysofemployment.Theemployershallmakeavailabletothepersonadisclosureoftheelementsofeachoftheavailableretirementplanspriortoacceptinghisorherelection.

(b)ThissectionshallbeapplicabletopersonswhoareeligibleformembershipandareemployedpriortoJanuary1,1991.


§31493.5. Certification of election to be covered; provision of retirement plan materials (Los Angeles)(a)Anypersonemployedwhoqualifiesasamembershallcertifytotheboardhisor

herelectiontobecoveredbytheretirementplanestablishedbythisarticleortobecoveredbytheretirementprovisionsandbenefitsotherwiseavailabletomembersasofthedateofemployment.Anypersonwhodiespriortocertifyinghisorherelectionorwhofailstocertifyhisorherelectionwithintheperiodsetforthinsubdivision(b)shall,asofthedateofdeathorthedayimmediatelyfollowingthelastdaytocertifyhisorherelection,bedeemedtohaveelectedtobecoveredbytheretirementplanestablishedbythisarticle.

(b)Theelectionrequiredtobemadebysubdivision(a)shallbecertifiedtotheboard:(1)Within30daysofemploymentifwrittendisclosurematerialsareprovidedbythe

employerpursuanttosubdivision(c)within14daysofemployment,or(2)Within30daysofthereceiptofwrittendisclosurematerialsprovidedbythe

employer if the employer fails to provide written disclosure materials within 14 days of employmentasrequiredbysubdivision(c).

Article1.5,§31492.1.-§31493.5.61

(c) The employer shall, within 14 days of the date of employment, provide to each personwhoqualifiesasamember,writtendisclosurematerialsoftheelementsofeachoftheavailableretirementplans.

(d)ThissectionshallbeapplicabletopersonseligibleforgeneralmembershipinPlansDandEwhobecomeemployedonorafterJanuary1,1991,andpriortoJanuary1,1992,andtopersonswhowereemployedpriortoJanuary1,1991,whofirstbecameeligibleformembershiponorafterJanuary1,1991,andbeforeJanuary1,1992.

(AmendedbyStats.1991,Ch.1108,Sec.4,EffectiveOctober14,1991)

§31493.6. Persons qualifying as members but not electing to be covered by available retirement provisions and benefits; death prior to certifying election; provision of retirement plan materials; elections to be covered by other retirement plans; application of section (Los Angeles)(a)Anypersonwhoqualifiesasamember,andwhohasnotelectedtobecoveredbythe

retirementprovisionsandbenefitsavailabletomembers,shallbecomeamemberoftheplanestablishedbythisarticleasofthefirstdayofthemonthfollowingthedateofemploymentordateofeligibilityformembership.Anypersonwhodiespriortocertifyinghisorherelectionshallbedeemedtohaveelectedtobecoveredbytheretirementplanestablishedbythisarticle.

(b)Theemployershall,within14daysofthedateofemploymentoreligibilityformembership,providetoeachpersonwhoqualifiesasamember,writtendisclosurematerialsoftheelementsofeachoftheavailableretirementplans.

(c)Anypersonwhohasbeenenrolledintheplanprovidedforinthisarticlepursuanttosubdivision(a)mayelecttobecoveredbyanyotherretirementplantowhichheorsheisotherwiseeligible,providedthattheelectionismadeinwritingandfiledwiththeboardwithin60daysfromhisorherbeginningdateofemploymentoreligibilityformembership,orwithin45daysafterreceiptfromtheemployerofthematerialsrequiredbysubdivision(b),whicheverislater.Anypersonwhomakestheelectionshallbedeemedtobeamemberoftheelectedplanasofthefirstdayofthemonthfollowingthedateofemploymentoreligibility,andthecountyauditorshallmakeappropriatedeductionsfromthemember’sfuturesalarywarranttocoverthemember’scontributionsapplicabletotheperiodthatthememberwasdeemedtobeincludedintheplancoveredbythisarticle.

(d)ThissectionshallbeapplicabletopersonseligibleforgeneralmembershipwhobecomeemployedonorafterJanuary1,1992,andtopersonswhowereemployedpriortoJanuary1,1992,butwhodidnotbecomeeligibleformembershipuntilJanuary1,1992,orlater.

(AddedbyStats.1991,Ch.1108,Sec.5,EffectiveOctober14,1991)

§31494. Transfer to Plan E by general members; operative dates of section (Los Angeles)(a)Generalmembersmayelecttotransfertotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticle

uponproperapplicationexecutedbythememberandfiledwiththeboard.Thattransferisvoluntaryandshallbeirrevocable.


(c)Transferringmembersrelinquishandwaiveanyandallpreviouslyavailablevestedoraccruedretirement,survivor,disabilityanddeathbenefits.However,notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthisarticle,transferringmembersshallreceivecreditforpublicserviceperformed prior to the transfer, including service with the employer, military service, and other publicservicetowhichthememberwouldotherwisebeeligibleunderthischapter,exceptthatmembercontributionsshallnotbecollected.

(d)Thissectionshallbeoperativeatsuchtimeortimesasmaybemutuallyagreedtoin

Article1.5,§31493.5.-§31494. 62

memorandaofunderstandingexecutedbytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesiftheboardofsupervisorsadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutiondeclaringthatthesectionshallbeoperative.

(e)ThissectionshallbesupersededbySection31494.2inanycountywhenSection31494.2becomesoperativeinthecounty.

(AmendedbyStats.1984,Ch.58,Sec.1,EffectiveMarch28,1984)(AmendedbyStats.2001,Ch.778(AB399),Sec.5,EffectiveOctober13,2001,asan

urgency statute)

§31494.1. Transfer of general members in noncontributory plan to contributory plan; retirement benefits; retirement service credit; contributions; rights to benefits; payment of contributions after death; operative date(a)Inaccordancewiththeprovisionsofthissection,generalmembers,whoseretirement

benefitsaregovernedbythenoncontributoryplancreatedbythisarticle,maytransfertothecontributoryplan.ContributoryplanshallmeanRetirementPlanD.Transfermaybemadebyelectionuponwrittenapplicationexecutedbythememberandfiledwiththeboardonorbeforetheelectiondateandshallbeeffectiveonthetransferdate,subjecttothetermsandconditionssetforthinthissection.Theelectiondateshallbethatdateidentifiedintheresolutionadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsdeclaringthissectiontobeoperative.ThetransferdateshallbethatdateonwhichthemembercompletesdepositofallcontributionsrequiredbySection31494.3.Theelectionisvoluntaryandmayberevokeduponwrittennoticereceivedbytheboardpriortothetransferdate.

(b)Theretirementbenefitsofmemberselectingtotransferandtransferredmembersshallbegovernedanddefinedbythissection.Intheeventofconflict,thissectionshallsupersede and prevail over other provisions, or application of provisions, otherwise contained inthisarticle.

(c)Transferredmembersrelinquish,waive,andforfeitanyandallvestedoraccruedbenefitsavailableunderanyotherretirementplanprovidedtomembersoftheretirementsystem,andshallbeentitledonlytothebenefitsavailableunderthecontributoryplan.

(d)Transferredmembersshallreceiveretirementservicecreditforthatperiodofservicewiththeemployer,forwhichthememberswereotherwiseeligibletoreceivecreditundertheplancreatedbythisarticle.TransferredmembersshallalsoreceiveretirementservicecreditforthatperiodofserviceforwhichthemembermadecontributionspursuanttoSection31490.5.

(e)Transferredmembersmayreceiveretirementservicecreditforserviceotherthanthatwiththeemployer,forwhichthememberswerecreditedorwereeligibletoreceivecreditundertheplancreatedbythisarticle,bywrittenapplicationexecutedbythememberandfiledwiththeboardonorbeforetheelectiondate.

(f)Theemployer,thememberswhohaveelectedtotransfer,andtransferredmembersshallmakecontributionstotheretirementfundinaccordancewiththerates,andinthesamemanner,asprescribedunderthecontributoryplan.Themonthlycontributionsshallcommenceforthemonthnextfollowingthetransferdateorthatdate120daysaftertheelectiondate,whicheverisearlier.

(g)ForpurposesofcalculatingmembercontributionsrequiredunderSection31494.3,theentryageofatransferredmembershallbethatentryageasreflectedintheretirementrecordsmaintainedonbehalfoftheboard.

(h)Failureofamembertodepositthecontributionsatthetimeandinthemannerrequiredbysubdivision(a)ofSection31494.3shallresultinthecancellationofhisorherelectiontotransfer.

(i)Failureofamembertodepositthecontributionsatthetimeandinthemanner

Article1.5,§31494.-§31494.1.63

requiredbysubdivision(b)or(c)ofSection31494.3shallresultinthecancellationandforfeitureofhisorherrighttoelectcreditforotherserviceundersubdivision(e).

(j)Priortothetransferdate,therightstoretirement,disability,survivors,anddeathbenefitsofmemberswhohavemadetheelectiontotransfershallremainthesameasdefinedandgovernedbythisarticle.Ifthosemembersdie,terminateservice,ormakeapplicationforretirementpriortothetransferdate,orfailtodepositallrequiredcontributionsasrequiredbySection31494.3,allmembercontributionsandregularinterestshallberefundedtothememberormember’ssurvivor.

(k)NotwithstandinganyotherprovisioncontainedinthissectionorSection31494.3,intheeventofthedeathofamemberwhohaselectedtotransferpriortothetransferdate,thespouseofthemember,ortheminorchildrenofthememberifnospousesurvivesthemember,mayelecttopaythebalanceofcontributionsrequiredbySection31494.3,andifthecontributionsaredepositedintheretirementfundwithin120daysafterthedeathofthemember,thespouseofthemember,orifnospousesurvivesthemember,theminorchildrenofthemember,shallbeentitledtorightsandbenefitsasifthedeceasedmemberhaddepositedallcontributionsrequiredbySection31494.3.

(l)Priortothetransferdate,therightstoretirement,disability,survivors,anddeathbenefitsofmemberswhohavemadetheelectiontotransfershallremainthesameasdefinedandgovernedbythisarticle.Ifthosemembersdie,terminateservice,ormakeapplicationforretirementpriortothetransferdate,allmembercontributionsandregularinterestshallberefundedtothememberorthemember’ssurvivor.

(m)Thissectionshallbeoperativeatsuchtimeortimesasmaybemutuallyagreedtoinmemorandaofunderstandingexecutedbytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesiftheboardofsupervisorsadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutiondeclaringthatthesectionshallbeoperative.

(AddedbyStats.1984,Ch.58,Sec.2,EffectiveMarch28,1984)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.10)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.528(SB13),Sec.17,EffectiveOctober4,2013,asan

urgency statute)

§31494.2. Members whose benefits are governed by Retirement Plan D; election to change plan membership in Retirement Plan E; terms with respect to retirement, survivors’, or other benefits; definitions; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)AgeneralmemberwhosebenefitsaregovernedbyRetirementPlanDmay,during

aperiodofactiveemployment,electtochangeplanmembershipandbecomeamember,prospectively,inRetirementPlanE.Theelectionshallbemadeuponwrittenapplicationsignedbythememberandfiledwiththeboard,pursuanttoenrollmentproceduresandduringanenrollmentperiodestablishedbytheboard,whichenrollmentperiodshallnotoccurmorefrequentlythanonceeverythreeyearsforthatmember.Thechangeinplanmembershipshallbeeffectiveasofthetransferdate,asdefinedinsubdivision(d).Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection,therightsandobligationsofamemberwhoelectstochangemembershipunderthissectionshallbegovernedbythetermsofthisarticleonandafterthetransferdate.Priortothetransferdate,therightstoretirement,survivors’,orotherbenefitspayabletoamemberandhisorhersurvivorsorbeneficiariesshallcontinuetobegovernedbyRetirementPlanD.

(b)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection,effectiveasofthetransferdate,amemberwhohastransferredtoRetirementPlanEpursuanttothissectionandhisorhersurvivorsorbeneficiariesshallreceiveretirement,survivors’,andotherbenefitsthatshallconsistof:(1)thebenefitstowhichtheyareentitledunderthetermsofRetirementPlanE,butbasedonthemember’sservicecreditedonlyunderthatplan,andpayableatthetime

Article1.5,§31494.1.-§31494.2. 64

andinthemannerprovidedunderRetirementPlanE,and(2)thebenefitstowhichtheywouldhavebeenentitledunderthetermsofRetirementPlanDhadthememberremainedamemberofRetirementPlanD,butbasedonthemember’sservicecreditedonlyunderthatplan,andpayableatthetimeandinthemannerprovidedunderRetirementPlanD.Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection,thecalculationofthemember’s,survivors’,orbeneficiaries’benefitsundereachplanshallbesubjecttothatplan’srespective,separateterms,including,butnotlimitedto,thedefinitionsof“finalcompensation”andprovisionsestablishingcost-of-livingadjustments,establishingminimumretirementageandservicerequirements,andgoverningintegrationwithfederalsocialsecuritypayments.Notwithstandingtheforegoing,theaggregateservicecreditedunderbothretirementplansshallbetakenintoaccountforthepurposeofdeterminingeligibilityforandvestingofbenefitsundereachplan.

(c)NotwithstandinganyotherprovisionofRetirementPlanDorRetirementPlanE:(1)AmemberwhohastransferredtoRetirementPlanEpursuanttothissectionmay

notretirefordisabilityandreceivedisabilityretirementbenefitsunderRetirementPlanD.(2)IfamemberwhohastransferredtoRetirementPlanEpursuanttothissectiondies

priortoretirement,thatmember’ssurvivororbeneficiarymaynotreceivesurvivorordeathbenefitsunderRetirementPlanDbutshallreceivearefundofthemember’scontributionstoRetirementPlanDtogetherwithallinterestcreditedthereto.

(d)Asusedinthissection:(1)“Periodofactiveemployment”meansaperiodduringwhichthememberis

activelyperformingthedutiesofafull-timeorpart-timeemployeepositionorisonanyauthorizedpaidleaveofabsence,exceptaleaveofabsenceduringwhichthememberistotallydisabledandisreceiving,oriseligibletoreceive,disabilitybenefits,eitherduringorafteranyeliminationorqualifyingperiod,underadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer.

(2)“RetirementPlanD”meansthecontributoryretirementplanotherwiseavailabletonewmembersofthesystemonthetransferdate.

(3)“RetirementPlanE”meansthenoncontributoryretirementplanestablishedunderthisarticle.

(4)“Transferdate”meansthefirstdayofthefirstmonththatisatleast30daysafterthedatethattheapplicationisfiledwiththeboardtochangeplanmembershipundersubdivision(a).

(e)ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoLosAngelesCountyandshallnotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyelects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.


§31494.3. Cost of contributions for members transferring to contributory plan, provision, deposit, amount; members applying for service credit relating to federal and military service; members applying for service credit relating to prior service and public service other than military and federal; operative date (Los Angeles)(a)MemberswhohaveelectedtotransferunderSection31494.1shallbeprovided

within90daysoftheelectiondatethecostofcontributionsrequiredforthatperiodofallcreditableservicewiththeemployerpriortothemonthforwhichmonthlycontributionsaretocommence,asprescribedinsubdivision(f)ofSection31494.1,andshalldepositintheretirementfund,theamounthereinafterprovidedinthissubdivision,bylumpsum,orregularmonthlyinstallments,orboth,overtheperiodoftimedeterminedbyaresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofretirement,butinanyeventpriortothedateofapplicationforretirementor,ifapplicable,thedateprovidedinSection31485.8,thedateoftermination,orthe

Article1.5,§31494.2.-§31494.3.65

dateofdeath.Theamountshallequalthesumofthecontributionsamemberwouldhavemadetotheretirementfundforthatlengthoftimeasthatforwhichthemembershallreceivecreditasservice,computedinaccordancewiththerateofcontributionapplicabletothememberunderthecontributoryplan,baseduponentryage,andinthesamemannerasprescribedundertheplanasiftheplanhadbeenineffectduringtheentireperiodofallcreditableservice,togetherwithregularinterestthereon.

(b)AllservicepreviouslypurchasedbythememberpursuanttoSection31490.5,ifany,shallberecalculatedinaccordancewiththerateofcontributionapplicabletothememberunderthecontributoryplan,basedupontheentryage,andinthesamemannerasprescribedundertheplanasifthecontributoryplanhadbeenineffectduringtheentireperiodofallcreditableservice,togetherwithregularinterestthereon.AllcontributionspaidbythememberpursuanttoSection31490.5,ifany,shallbecreditedtowardtheamountowedundersubdivision(a)andallperiodsofservicecreditedundertheplancreatedbythisarticleshallbetransferredtothecontributoryplanuponcompletionofpaymentofthatamount.

(c)Anymemberwhoappliesforservicecreditundersubdivision(e)ofSection31494.1relatingtofederalandmilitaryservice,shallbeprovidedwithin90daysoftheelectiondatethecostofcontributionrequiredforthatservice,andshalldepositintheretirementfundtheamounthereinafterprovidedinthissubdivisionbylumpsum,orregularmonthlyinstallments,orboth,overtheperiodoftimedeterminedbyaresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofretirement,butinanyeventpriortothedateofapplicationforretirement,dateoftermination,ordeath.Theamountshallequalthesumoftwicethecontributionsthememberwouldhavemadetotheretirementfundforthelengthoftimeasthatforwhichthememberhaselectedtoreceivecreditasservice,computedbyapplyingtherateofcontributionapplicabletothememberunderthecontributoryplan,baseduponentryage,tothemonthlycompensationfirstearnablebythememberasofthemostrecentdateofentryintotheretirementsystem,multipliedbythenumberofmonthsforwhichthememberhaselectedtoreceivecredit,togetherwithregularinterestthereon.

(d)Anymemberwhoappliesforservicecreditundersubdivision(e)ofSection31494.1,relatingtopriorserviceasdefinedinthebylawsoftheboard,otherthanqualifyingserviceunderSection31490.5,andpublicserviceotherthanmilitaryandfederalservice,shallbeprovidedwithin90daysoftheelectiondatethecostofcontributionrequiredforthatservice,andshalldepositintheretirementfundtheamounthereinafterprovidedinthissubdivision,bylumpsumorregularmonthlyinstallments,orboth,overtheperiodoftimedeterminedbyaresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofretirement,butinanyeventpriortothedateofapplicationforretirementor,ifapplicable,priortothedateprovidedinSection31485.8,thedateoftermination,orthedateofdeath.Theamountshallequalthatsumofcontributionsthememberwouldhavemadetotheretirementfundforthelengthoftimeasthatforwhichthememberhaselectedtoreceivecreditasservice,calculatedinthesamemannerasprescribedinthebylawsoftheboardrelatingtocreditforpriorservice,exceptthatsuchcontributionshallbecomputedbyapplyingtherateofcontributionapplicabletothememberunderthecontributoryplan,baseduponentryage.

(e)Thissectionshallbeoperativeinacountyatsuchtimeortimesasmaybemutuallyagreedtoinmemorandaofunderstandingexecutedbytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesiftheboardofsupervisorsadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutiondeclaringthatthesectionshallbeoperativeinthecounty.

(AmendedbyStats.1991,Ch.1108,Sec.6,EffectiveOctober14,1991)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.11)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.369(SB777),Sec.4)

Article1.5,§31494.3. 66

§31494.5. Members whose benefits are governed by Retirement Plan E; election to change plan membership to Retirement Plan D; benefit terms (Los Angeles)(a)AgeneralmemberwhosebenefitsaregovernedbyRetirementPlanEmay,during

aperiodofactiveemployment,electtochangeplanmembershipandbecomeamember,prospectively,inRetirementPlanD.Theelectionshallbemadeuponwrittenapplicationsignedbythememberandfiledwiththeboard,pursuanttoenrollmentproceduresandduringanenrollmentperiodestablishedbytheboard,whichenrollmentperiodshallnotoccurmorefrequentlythanonceeverythreeyearsforthatmember.Thechangeinplanmembershipshallbeeffectiveasofthetransferdate,asdefinedinsubdivision(g).Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection,therightsandobligationsofamemberwhoelectstochangemembershipunderthissectionshallbegovernedbythetermsofRetirementPlanDonandafterthetransferdate.Priortothetransferdate,therightstoretirement,survivors’,orotherbenefitspayabletoamemberandhisorhersurvivorsorbeneficiariesshallcontinuetobegovernedbyRetirementPlanE.

(b)Ifamemberhasmadetheelectiontochangeplansundersubdivision(a),monthlycontributionsbythememberandtheemployerunderthetermsofRetirementPlanDshallcommenceasofthetransferdate.Forthepurposesofcalculatingthemember’scontributionrateunderRetirementPlanD,hisorherentryageshallbedeemedtobehisorherageathisorherbirthdaynearestthetransferdate;however,ifthememberexchangesservicecreditinaccordancewithsubdivision(c),withregardtocontributionsmadeforperiodsafterthatexchange,hisorherentryageshallbeadjustedanddeemedtobethemember’sageathisorherbirthdaynearestthedateonwhichbeginsthemostrecentperiodofunbrokenservicecreditedunderRetirementPlanD,takingintoaccountservicepurchasedundersubdivision(c).Innoeventshalltheexchangeofserviceundersubdivision(c)affecttheentryagewithrespectto,orthecostof,employeecontributionsmade,orservicepurchased,priortotheexchange.

(c)Ageneralmemberwhohaselectedtochangeplansundersubdivision(a)alsomayelecttoexchange,atthattimeoranytimethereafter,butpriortotheearlierofhisorherapplication for retirement, termination from employment, or death, some portion designated inwhole-monthincrements,oralloftheservicecreditedunderRetirementPlanEforanequivalentamountofservicecreditedunderRetirementPlanD,provided,however,thatthemembermaynotexchangelessthan12months’serviceor,ifless,thetotalservicecreditedunderRetirementPlanE.Theexchangeshallbeeffectiveonthedatewhenthemembercompletesthepurchaseofthatservicebydepositingintheretirementfund,bylumpsumorregularmonthlyinstallments,overtheperiodoftimedeterminedbyaresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofretirement,orboth,butinanyeventpriortotheearlierofhisorherdeathorthedatethatis120daysaftertheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement,thesumof:(1)thecontributionsthememberwouldhavemadetotheretirementfundunderRetirementPlanDforthatlengthoftimeforwhichthemembershallreceivecreditasserviceunderRetirementPlanD,computedinaccordancewiththerateofcontributionapplicabletothememberunderRetirementPlanD,baseduponhisorherentryage,andinthesamemannerprescribedunderRetirementPlanDasifthatplanhadbeenineffectduringtheperiodforwhichthemembershallreceiveservicecredit,and(2)theregularinterestthereon.

Forthepurposesofthissubdivision,amember’sentryageshallbedeemedtobethemember’sageathisorherbirthdaynearestthedateonwhichbeginsthemostrecentperiodofunbrokenservicecreditedunderRetirementPlanDfollowingcompletionoftheserviceexchangeunderthissubdivision.

AmembermayreceivecreditforaperiodofserviceunderonlyoneplanandinnoeventshallamemberreceivecreditforthesameperiodofserviceunderbothRetirementPlanDandRetirementPlanE.Amemberwhofailstocompletethepurchaseofserviceasrequired

Article1.5,§31494.5.67

underthissubdivisionshallbetreatedascompletinganexchangeofserviceunderRetirementPlanEforanequivalentamountofserviceunderRetirementPlanDonlywithregardtotheservicethatactuallyhasbeenpurchasedthroughcompleteddepositwiththeretirementfundoftherequisitepurchaseamount,calculatedinaccordancewiththissubdivision.

(d) Except as otherwise provided in this section, effective as of the transfer date, a memberwhohastransferredtoRetirementPlanDpursuanttothissectionandhisorhersurvivorsorbeneficiariesshallreceiveretirement,disability,survivors’,death,orotherbenefitsthatshallconsistof:(1)thebenefitstowhichtheyareentitledunderthetermsofRetirementPlanD,butbasedonthemember’sservicecreditedonlyunderthatplan,andpayableatthetimeandinthemannerprovidedunderRetirementPlanD,and(2)thebenefitstowhichtheywouldhavebeenentitledunderthetermsofRetirementPlanEhadthememberremainedamemberofRetirementPlanE,butbasedonthemember’sservicecreditedonlyunderthatplan,andpayableatthetimeandinthemannerprovidedunderRetirementPlanE.Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection,thecalculationoftheportionofamember’sorbeneficiary’sbenefitthatisattributabletoeachplanissubjecttothatplan’srespective,separateterms,including,butnotlimitedto,thedefinitionsof“finalcompensation”andprovisionsestablishingcost-of-livingadjustments,establishingminimumageandservicerequirements,andgoverningintegrationwithfederalsocialsecuritypayments.Notwithstandingtheforegoing,theaggregateservicecreditedunderbothRetirementPlanDandRetirementPlanEshallbetakenintoaccountforthepurposeofdeterminingeligibilityfor,andvestingof,benefitsundereachplan.

(e)NotwithstandinganyotherprovisionofRetirementPlanDorRetirementPlanE,amemberwhotransfersintoRetirementPlanDunderthissectionmayretireforservice-connectedornonservice-connecteddisabilityandreceivedisabilitybenefitsunderRetirementPlanDonlyifheorshehaseither(1)completedtwocontinuousyearsofactiveserviceafterhisorhermostrecenttransferdate,or(2)earnedfiveyearsofretirementservicecreditunderRetirementPlanDafterhisorhermostrecenttransferdate.Notwithstandinganyotherprovisiontothecontrary,amemberwhobecomesdisabledanddoesnotmeeteitheroftheseconditions (1) may apply for and receive only a deferred or service retirement allowance, or(2)mayelecttotransferprospectivelybacktoRetirementPlanE,andforthepurposesofcalculatinghisorherretirementbenefitsunderthissection,shallinlieuofcreditunderRetirementPlanDbecreditedwithserviceunderRetirementPlanEasprovidedundersubdivision(g)ofSection31488duringanyperiodheorsheistotallydisabledandisreceiving,oreligibletoreceive,disabilitybenefits,eitherduringorafteranyeliminationorqualifyingperiod,underadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployeruptotheearlierofthedateheorsheretiresornolongerqualifiesfordisabilitybenefits.IfamemberdiesbeforeheorsheiseligibletoretireandbeforecompletingeithertwocontinuousyearsofactiveserviceafterthetransferdateintoRetirementPlanDorafterearningfiveyearsofretirementservicecreditunderRetirementPlanDafterthattransferdate,thatmember’sbeneficiaryshallnotbeentitledtothesurvivorallowanceunderSection31781.1or31781.12,ifoperative.

(f)NotwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofRetirementPlanDorRetirementPlanE,amemberwhohastransferredtoRetirementPlanDpursuanttothissectionandwhoretiresfordisabilitywheneligibleunderthissectionandRetirementPlanD,maynotalsoretireforserviceandreceiveserviceretirementbenefitsunderRetirementPlanE.However,forthepurposeofcalculatingdisabilitybenefitsunderRetirementPlanD,the“sumtowhichheorshewouldbeentitledasserviceretirement”orhisorher“serviceretirementallowance,”asthosetermsareusedinSections31726,31726.5,and31727.4,shallconsistoftheblendedbenefittowhichthememberwouldbeentitledundersubdivision(d)ifheorsheretiredforservice,notjusttheserviceretirementbenefittowhichheorshewouldbeentitledunderRetirementPlanD.

Article1.5,§31494.5. 68

(g)Asusedinthissection:(1)“Activeservice”meanstimespentonactive,on-the-jobperformanceoftheduties

ofafull-timeorpart-timepositionandonanyauthorizedpaidleavesofabsence;provided,however,thatanyauthorizedpaidleaveofabsenceorpart-timeserviceshallnotconstituteactiveserviceiftheleaveofabsenceorpart-timeserviceisnecessitatedbyapreexistingdisability,injury,ordisease.Theboardofretirementshalldeterminewhetherornotaleaveofabsenceorpart-timeserviceisnecessitatedbyapreexistingdisability,injury,ordisease,andthusexcludedfromthemember’sactiveservice,baseduponevidencepresentedbytheemployerandthememberuponrequestbytheboard.

(2)“Entryage”meanstheageusedforcalculatingthenormalrateofcontributiontoRetirementPlanDwithrespecttoamemberwhohastransferredmembershiptoRetirementPlanDunderthissection.

(3)“Periodofactiveemployment”meansaperiodduringwhichthememberisactivelyperformingthedutiesofafull-timeorpart-timeemployeepositionorisonanyauthorizedpaidleaveofabsence,exceptaleaveofabsenceduringwhichthememberistotallydisabledandisreceiving,oriseligibletoreceive,disabilitybenefits,eitherduringorafteranyeliminationorqualifyingperiod,underadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer.

(4)“RetirementPlanD”meansthecontributoryretirementplanotherwiseavailabletonewmembersoftheretirementsystemonthetransferdate.

(5)“RetirementPlanE”meansthenoncontributoryretirementplanestablishedunderthisarticle.

(6)“Transferdate”meansthefirstdayofthefirstmonththatisatleast30daysafterthedatethattheapplicationisfiledwiththeboardtochangeplanmembershipundersubdivision(a).

(h)ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoLosAngelesCountyandshallnotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyelects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.



§31495. Employer contribution (Los Angeles)Untilthecompletionofthenextregularlyscheduledactuarialsurveyoftheretirement



§31495.5. Retirement or death allowances payable on or after operative date of section, to or on account of any member of Retirement Plan E who retires or dies or who has retired or died, as of April 1 each year; increase or decrease by amount equal to member’s automatic COLA and as calculated by board of retirement before April 1 of each year; election to purchase elective COLA; amount of required contributions; allowances with respect to death and disability; definitions; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, every retirement allowance or

deathallowancepayable,onoraftertheoperativedateofthissection,tooronaccountofanymemberofRetirementPlanEwhoretiresordiesorwhohasretiredordiedshall,asofApril1eachyear,beincreasedordecreasedbyanamountequaltothatmember’sautomaticCOLA,asdefinedinsubdivision(f)andascalculatedbytheboardofretirementbeforeApril1of

Article1.5,§31494.5.-§31495.5.69

eachyear.Nodecreaseinthecostoflivingshallreduceanallowancebelowtheamountbeingreceivedbythememberorhisorherbeneficiaryontheeffectivedateoftheallowanceortheoperativedateofthissection,whicheverislater.

(b)ARetirementPlanEmembermayelecttopurchaseanelectiveCOLA,asdefinedinsubdivision(f),withregardtosomeportion(designatedinwhole-monthincrements)orallofhisorhermonthsofRetirementPlanEserviceearnedpriortotheoperativedateofthissection.ThemembermayalsoelecttopurchaseanelectiveCOLA,asdefinedinsubdivision(f),withregardtosomeportion(designatedinwhole-monthincrements)orallofhisorhermonthsofRetirementPlanEservicepurchasedpursuanttoSection31490.5,includingservicerenderedafterJune4,2002,butpriortobecomingamemberofthissystem.

(c)Theelectionshallbemadeuponwrittenapplicationsignedbythememberandfiledwiththeboardpursuanttoelectionproceduresandduringelectionperiodsestablishedbytheboard.ThepurchaseoftheelectiveCOLAshallbeeffectiveonlywhenthememberhaspaidcontributionsnecessarytopurchasethedesignatedamountofserviceforwhichheorsheshallreceivetheelectiveCOLA.Theamountofrequiredcontributionsshallbedeterminedbytheboard,subjecttothefollowing:

(1)ThecostofpurchasingserviceforelectiveCOLApurposesshallbedeterminedbytheboardofretirementsuchthatnoelectiveCOLAliabilityshallbebornebythecountyandnodiminutioninthefundingratioofthesystemshallresult.

(2)ThecostchargedtothememberforpurchasingtheelectiveCOLAserviceshallbebasedupontheassumptionthatthememberretiresattheageof65years.

(3)MembersmaypayfortheelectiveCOLAbylump-sumpaymentormonthlyinstallmentsoveraperiodtobedeterminedbyaresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofretirement,orboth,butinanyeventpriortotheearlierofhisorherdeathorthedatethatis120daysaftertheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.

(4)IfamemberfailstotimelycompletethepurchaseofhisorherelectiveCOLA,heorsheshallreceiveanelectiveCOLAcalculatedonlywithregardtothatamountofserviceactuallypurchased.

(5)IfaRetirementPlanEmemberdiespriortoretirement,anycontributionsmadetowardthepurchaseofanelectiveCOLA,andallinterestcreditedthereto,shallberefundedtothedeceasedmember’ssurvivingspouseor,ifthereisnosurvivingspouse,tothedeceasedmember’ssurvivingchildorchildrenundertheageof18years,dividedamongthosechildreninequalamounts,or,ifthereisnosurvivingspouseorsurvivingchildorchildrenundertheageof18years,tothedeceasedmember’sestate.

(d)IfaRetirementPlanEmemberelectsandpurchasesanelectiveCOLA,then,notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthisarticle,everyRetirementPlanEallowanceorpostretirementdeathallowancepayableonandaftertheoperativedateofthissection,tooronaccountofthatmemberwhoretiresordiesorwhohasretiredordiedshall,asofApril1ofeachyear,beincreasedordecreasedbyanamountequaltothatmember’selectiveCOLAascalculatedbytheboardofretirementbeforeApril1ofeachyear.Nodecreaseinthecostoflivingshallreduceanallowancebelowtheamountbeingreceivedbythememberorhisorherbeneficiaryontheeffectivedateoftheallowanceorthisprovision,whicheverislater.

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,ifamemberretiresbeforeattainingtheageof65years,hisorherelectiveCOLAshallbeactuariallyreducedtoreflectthatearlierretirementageunless,within120daysafterhisorherretirement,heorshecontributesbylump-sumtheamountnecessarytocompletethepurchaseofhisorherelectiveCOLAasdeterminedbytheboard.If,uponamember’sretirement,theboardofretirementdeterminesthatamemberhaspaidmorecontributionsthannecessarytopurchasehisorherelectiveCOLAinaccordancewithsubdivision(b),themembershallreceivearefundofthoseexcess

Article1.5,§31495.5. 70

contributionsandallinterestcreditedthereto.Uponretirementorterminationofemployment,butbeforeheorshebeginsreceivinghisorherelectiveCOLA,amembermayrevokehisorherelectiontopurchaseanelectiveCOLAandreceivearefundofanycontributionsmadetowardthepurchaseoftheelectiveCOLAandallinterestcreditedthereto.

(e)IfaRetirementPlanEmemberorformermemberistotallydisabled,beginsreceivingdisabilitybenefits,otherthanstate-mandatedbenefits,underadisabilityplanprovidedbythe employer on or after the operative date of this section, and, on or after that date, his or her employmentterminates,then,forpurposesofcalculatingthemember’sorformermember’sfinalcompensation,hisorherpredisabilitycompensation,aspreviouslyadjustedinaccordancewiththissubdivisionandparagraph(5)ofsubdivision(f),shall,asofApril1ofeachyearafterhisorheremploymentterminatesandduringaperiodforwhichheorshebothremainstotallydisabledandearns“service”withinthemeaningofsubdivision(g)ofSection31488,beincreasedordecreasedbyanamountequaltothatmember’sorformermember’spredisabilitycompensationadjustmentascalculatedbytheboardofretirementbeforeApril1ofeachyear.

(f)Asusedinthissection:(1)“AutomaticCOLA”means,withrespecttoanymemberofRetirementPlanE,

anamountequaltotheallowancethenbeingreceived(includinganyautomaticorelectiveCOLAspreviouslyreceived),multipliedbyapercentage(roundedtothenearestone-tenthof1percent)derivedbytakingthenumberofmonthsofservicethememberearnedonandaftertheoperativedateofthissection,dividingbythemember’stotalmonthsofservice,andmultiplyingbyapercentageequaltothelesserof2percentorthepercentagefoundbytheboardofretirementtoapproximatetothenearestone-halfof1percentthepercentageofannualincreaseordecreaseinthecostoflivingasofJanuary1ofeachyearasshownbythethencurrentCPI,asadjustedfortheamountappliedfromaprioryear.Forpurposesofapplyingthisformula,theamountofanyannualcost-of-livingincreaseundertheCPIinexcessofthe2percentmaximumshallbeaccumulatedandappliedinfutureyearsinwhichtheannualcost-of-livingincreaseundertheCPIislessthanthe2percentmaximum.

(2)“CPI”meanstheBureauofLaborStatisticsConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersfortheareainwhichthecountyseatissituated.

(3)“ElectiveCOLA”means,withrespecttoanymemberofRetirementPlanE,anamountequaltotheallowancethenbeingreceived(includinganyautomaticorelectiveCOLAspreviouslyreceived),multipliedbyapercentage(roundedtothenearestone-tenthof1percent)derivedbytakingthenumberofmonthsofservicethememberpurchasedinaccordancewithsubdivision(b),dividingbythemember’stotalmonthsofservice,andmultiplyingbyapercentageequaltothelesserof2percentorthepercentagefoundbytheboardofretirementtoapproximatetothenearestone-halfof1percentthepercentageofannualincreaseordecreaseinthecostoflivingasofJanuary1ofeachyearasshownbythethencurrentCPI,asadjustedfortheamountappliedfromaprioryear.Forpurposesofapplyingthisformula,theamountofanyannualcost-of-livingincreaseundertheCPIinexcessofthe2percentmaximumshallbeaccumulatedandappliedinfutureyearsinwhichtheannualcost-of-livingincreaseundertheCPIislessthanthe2percentmaximum.

(4)“Predisabilitycompensation”meansamember’slast12monthsofcompensationearnableprecedingthedatehisorheremploymentterminateswhileheorsheisreceivingdisabilitybenefits,otherthanstate-mandatedbenefits,underadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployerbecauseheorsheistotallydisabled.Theemployershallprovidetheboardofretirementwiththeinformationnecessaryforamember’spredisabilitycompensationtobedetermined.

(5)“Predisabilitycompensationadjustment”means,withrespecttoanymemberorformermemberofRetirementPlanEqualifyingundersubdivision(e),anamountequalto

Article1.5,§31495.5.71

thatmember’sorformermember’spredisabilitycompensationaspreviouslyadjustedunderthissection,multipliedbyapercentageequaltothelesserof2percentorthepercentagefoundbytheboardofretirementtoapproximatetothenearestone-halfof1percentthepercentageofannualincreaseordecreaseinthecostoflivingasofJanuary1,ofeachyearasshownbythethencurrentCPI,asadjustedfortheamountappliedfromaprioryear.Forthepurposeofapplyingthisformula,theamountofanyannualcost-of-livingincreaseundertheCPIinexcessofthe2percentmaximumshallbeaccumulatedandappliedinfutureyearsinwhichtheannualcost-of-livingincreaseundertheCPIislessthanthe2percentmaximum.

(g)ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoLosAngelesCountyandshallnotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyelects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.


§31495.6. Use of current, forfeited, and vested membership periods in determining age of entry; applicability (Los Angeles)Amembermayusecurrent,forfeited,andvestedmembershipperiodsearnedunder

thischapterwhenmeetingthereciprocityrequirementsforpurposesofdeterminingageofentry,asdefinedinSections31833and31833.1.Thissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoareretiredfromthissystem.


Article 1.6Alternative Plan for Counties of the 10th Class (San Mateo)

(Article1.6addedbyStats.1982,Ch.1381,Sec.1,ApplicableasprescribedbySection31496)

§31496. Designation as Retirement Plan 3; application of article; purpose; application of other laws (San Mateo)(a)TheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallbeknownasRetirementPlan3.(b)Thisarticleshallbeapplicableintheretirementsystemofanycountyofthe10th

class,iftheboardofsupervisorsexecutesamemorandumofunderstandingwithemployeerepresentativesandadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthearticleshallbeapplicable.





(1)Article9(commencingwithSection31700)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(2)Article10(commencingwithSection31720)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(3)Article11(commencingwithSection31760)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(4)Article12(commencingwithsection31780)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(5)Article16.5(commencingwithSection31870)ofthischaptershallnotbe

Article1.5,§31495.5.-Article1.6,§31496. 72

applicable.(g)Article15(commencingwithSection31830)shallonlybeapplicableforservice

retirement.ThoseprovisionsofArticle15dealingwithdisabilityretirement,deathbenefits,andtherequirementrelatingtothedepositofaccumulatedmembercontributionsshallnotbeapplicable.

(h)Exceptasotherwiseprovided,anymemberwhouponretirementreceivesaretirement pension calculated in accordance with sections or provisions added to this article subsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticleshallhavehisorherpensioncalculatedundereach such section or provision only for the period of time that those sections or provisions wereineffect,unlessotherwisemutuallyagreedbetweentheemployeranditsemployeerepresentatives.

(i)Anyamendmentstoormodificationsofthischaptersubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticleshallnotaffecttheprovisionsofthisarticleunlessmutuallyagreedtobytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesandadoptedbymajorityresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31496.3. Definitions (San Mateo)Unlessthecontextotherwiserequires,thedefinitionscontainedinthissectiongovern

theconstructionofthisarticle.(a)“Board”meanstheboardofretirement.(b)“Employer”meansthecountyordistrictoragencywhoseemployeesaremembers

oftheretirementsystemofthecounty.(c)“Federalsystem”meanstheOldAgeandSurvivorsInsuranceprovisionsofthe



(e)“Member”or“generalmember”meansanemployeehiredonapermanentbasis,asdefinedbytheemployer,exceptanemployeeeligibleforsafetymembership.



Exceptasprovided,amembermaynotbecreditedwithserviceforanyperiodoftimeinwhichthememberisabsentfromworkwithoutpay.

Unlessotherwiseprovided,servicemaynotincludemilitaryserviceorpublicserviceotherthanservicewiththeemployer.

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,amemberwhohaselectedortransferredtotheplancreatedbythisarticleandwhoterminatesforanyreasonandislaterreemployedshallreceivePlan3creditforhisorherservicerenderedpriortotermination.

Article1.6,§31496.-§31496.3.73

(AddedbyStats.1982,Ch.1381,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1983,Ch.190,Sec.1,EffectiveJuly11,1983)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.96(AB398),Sec.2)

§31496.7. Contributions; none by general members; transferees; refunds; interest (San Mateo)(a)Thereshallbenogeneralmembers’contributionsundertheplancreatedbythis

article.(b)Amemberwhotransferstotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallhave

refunded,withinareasonableperiodoftime,nottoexceedninemonthsfromthedateofreceiptofelectiontotransferbytheboard,themember’saccumulatedcontributions,togetherwithinterestthereon,whicharecreditedtothemember’saccount.InterestshallbecreditedtotheJune30orDecember31date,whicheverislater,immediatelyprecedingthedateoftherefundwarrant.Anyrefundunderthissectionshallbepayabletothemember.


§31497. Credit for prior public service; absence from work or termination of employment; effect on continuity of service (San Mateo)(a)ExceptasprovidedinSection31498.3andunderreciprocalprovisionsofthisarticle,

amemberwhowasinpublicservicepriortobecomingamembermaynotelecttoreceivecreditinthisretirementplanforthatpublicservicetime,andshallnotreceivecreditforthatpriorpublicservice.

(b)Absencefromworkorterminationofemploymentwhileaneligibleemployeeordisabilitybeneficiary,asdefinedbyadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer,shallnotbeconsideredasbreakingthecontinuityofservice.

(c)Forthepurposesofsubdivision(b)ofSection31497.3,anunpaidleaveofabsenceofnottoexceedoneyear,oraleaveofabsenceforwhichanemployeereceivesanybenefitwhichhasbeenapprovedbytheemployer,shallnotbeconsideredaninterruptionofservice.However,theperiodoftimeofunpaidleaveshallnotbeconsideredasserviceincalculatingthebenefitsotherwiseprovidedunderthisarticle.


§31497.3. Retirement; time of vesting; eligibility; application; benefits (San Mateo)(a)Retirementofamemberorformermemberwhohasmettherequirementsforage





(e)Thenormalretirementpensionshallconsistofanannualallowancepayableinmonthlyinstallmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberequalto2percentofhisorherfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicetotheprecedingcompletedmonthtowhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,nottoexceed35years,addedto1percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofserviceinexcessof35,nottoexceed10years,reducedbytheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount,if

Article1.6,§31496.3.-§31497.3. 74

any,multipliedbythefractionofthenumberofyearsofservicewiththeemployersubjecttocoverageunderthefederalsystem,nottoexceed35years,dividedby35.



Age ERA Factor 55 .39 56 .43 57 .47 58 .51 59 .56 60 .61 61 .67 62 .74 63 .82 64 .90

TheERAfactorssetforthinthissubdivisionshallbeuseduntiladjustedbytheboardinaccordancewiththeinterestandmortalitytablesadoptedbytheboard.





(i)Atthetimeofapplicationforretirement,thememberorformermembershallprovideadequateproof(1)ofageand(2)oftheeligibilityofpersons,ifany,whoatthattimewouldotherwisequalifyforthesurvivorallowanceprovidedforinSection31497.7.

Article1.6,§31497.3.75

(j)Notwithstandingsubdivision(e)ofSection31497.3,anyretiredmemberreceivinganormalretirementpensionshall,assoonaspossiblebutnotlaterthansixmonthsfollowingretirement,presentevidencerequiredbytheboardoftheretiredmember’sactualprimaryinsuranceamount.Forpurposesofthissubdivision,theactualprimaryinsuranceamountshallbetheamountpayableunderthefederalsystemontheretiredmember’sdateofretirementwithoutregardtodelayedretirementcreditoranydeductionsonaccountofwork.Followingreceiptofthatevidence,theboardshalladjusttheretiredmember’spensionfromthedateofretirementtoequaltheamountofthepensiontowhichheorshewouldhavebeenentitledonthatdatehadtheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountequaledtheactualprimaryinsuranceamount.


§31497.7. Death benefits; election for lower pension to obtain different survivor allowance (San Mateo)(a)Uponthedeathofaretiredmember,50percentoftheretirementpension,ifnot

modifiedinaccordancewiththeoptionalsurvivorallowanceinsubdivision(b),shallbecontinued during and throughout the life of his or her surviving spouse, if he or she was marriedtothememberatleastoneyearpriortothedateofretirement.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtothisallowance,orheorshediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedretiredmember,includingstepchildoradoptedchild,attainstheageof18years,thentheallowancewhichthesurvivingspousewouldhavereceivedhadsheorhelived,shallbepaidtothedeceasedretiredmember’schildorchildrenundertheageof18years.Ifthesurvivorallowanceistobepaidtosurvivingchildren,theallowanceshallbedividedamongthechildreninequalamounts.However,therightofanychildtoshareintheallowanceshallceaseuponhisorherdeath,marriage,oruponattainingtheageof18years.

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissubdivision,theallowanceotherwisepayabletothechildrenoftheretiredmembershallbepaidtothechildrenthroughtheageof21,ifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanyaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(b)Avestedmember,orvestedformermember,inlieuofthenormalorearlyretirementpensionfortheretiredmember’slifealone,mayelecttohavetheactuarialequivalentoftheretiredmember’spensionasofthedateofretirementappliedtoalesseramountpayablethroughouttheretiredmember’slife,andthereaftertohaveasurvivorallowanceasapprovedbytheboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,continuedthroughoutthelifeofandpaidtothepersonorpersonshavinganinsurableinterestinthelifeoftheretiredmember,asthememberorformermembernominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboardatthetimeofretirement.

(c)Designationspursuanttosubdivision(b)shallnot,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,placeanyadditionalburdenupontheretirementsystem.


§31498. Employment subsequent to effective date of article; certification; automatic coverage (San Mateo)(a)Anypersonemployedsubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticlewhowould

otherwisequalifyasamembershallnotbecomeamemberuntilheorshecertifiestotheboardhisorherelectiontobecoveredbytheretirementplanestablishedbythisarticleortobecoveredbytheretirementprovisionsandbenefitsotherwiseavailabletomembersonthedateprecedingtheeffectivedateofthisarticle.Asaconditionofcontinuedemployment,thecertificationshallbemadewithin60daysofemployment.Theemployershallmakeavailable

Article1.6,§31497.3.-§31498. 76

tothepersonadisclosureoftheelementsofeachoftheavailableretirementplanspriortoacceptinghisorherelection.

(b)IfthepersondoesnotelecttobecoveredbyeitherRetirementPlan2orRetirementPlan3within60daysofemployment,thepersonshallautomaticallybecoveredbyRetirementPlan2andnocertificationshallberequired.

(AmendedbyStats.1992,Ch.707,Sec.4,EffectiveSeptember15,1992)

§31498.3. Transfer to Plan 3 by general members; change of election upon reemployment not permitted (San Mateo)(a)Generalmembersmay,within180daysoftheeffectivedateofthisarticle,electto

transfertotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleuponproperapplicationexecutedbythememberandfiledwiththeboard.


(c)Transferringmembersrelinquishandwaiveanyandallpreviouslyavailablevestedoraccruedretirement,survivor,disabilityanddeathbenefits.However,notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthisarticle,atransferringmembershallreceivecreditfornomorethan24monthsofpublicserviceperformedpriortoDecember31,1969,includingservicewiththeemployer,militaryservice,andanyotherpublicservicetowhichthememberwouldotherwisebeeligibleunderthischapter,exceptthatmembercontributionsshallnotbecollected.

(d)Thetransferbythememberisvoluntaryandshallbeirrevocable,unlesstheboardofsupervisors,byresolution,authorizesRetirementPlan3memberstotransfertoRetirementPlan2,undertermsandconditionsspecifiedintheresolution.Thesetermsmayinclude,butarenotlimitedto,aneligibilityprovisionbasedonthenumberofyearsincountyservice,aprovisionforcreditingserviceinRetirementPlan2onlyforthatservicerenderedafteradoptionoftheresolution,oraneligibilityprovisionallowingmemberstotransfertoRetirementPlan2allcountyservicerenderedunderRetirementPlan3providedthememberdepositsintotheretirementfundwithinaspecifiedtimeanamountequaltothecontributionsheorshewouldhavemadeduringthattime,hadheorshebeenamemberofRetirementPlan2,togetherwithregularinterestonthatamount.Theresolutionmayestablishdifferentconditionsfordifferentjobclassificationsorgroups,andforrepresentedbargainingunits,conditionsmutuallyagreeduponbytheemployerandtheemployeerepresentative.Theboardofsupervisorsmayalsoestablishanyotherconditionsitdeemsnecessaryordesirable.

(e)Anymemberwhohaselectedortransferredtotheplancreatedbythisarticleandwhoterminateshisorheremploymentandislaterreemployedshallnotbeentitledtochangehisorherelectionuponthatreemployment,unlessaresolution,enactedbytheboardofsupervisorssubsequenttothemember’selectiontotransfertothenewplan,soprovides.

(AmendedbyStats.1991,Ch.344,Sec.2,EffectiveAugust6,1991.ApplicableasofMarch1,1991,pursuanttoCh.344,Sec.3)

§31498.7. Employer contribution (San Mateo)Untilthecompletionofthenextregularlyscheduledactuarialsurveyoftheretirement



Article1.6,§31498.-§31498.7.77

Article 1.7Alternative Plan for Counties of the 25th Class (Merced)

(Article1.7addedbyStats.1983,Ch.558,Sec.4,EffectiveJuly28,1983)

§31499. Name of plan; application of article; purpose; construction with other laws; amendments of article (Merced)(a)TheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallbeknownasRetirementPlan3.(b)Thisarticleshallbeapplicableintheretirementsystemofanycountyofthe25th

classdescribedbySection28046,iftheboardofsupervisorsexecutesamemorandumofunderstandingwithemployeerepresentativesandadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthearticleshallbeapplicable.





(1)Article9(commencingwithSection31700)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(2)Article10(commencingwithSection31720)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(3)Article11(commencingwithSection31760)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(4)Article12(commencingwithSection31780)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(5)Article16.5(commencingwithSection31870)ofthischaptershallnotbe


retirement.ThoseprovisionsofArticle15dealingwithdisabilityretirement,deathbenefits,andtherequirementrelatingtothedepositofaccumulatedmembercontributionsshallnotbeapplicable.


(i)Unlessspecificallyotherwiseprovidedtherein,noamendmenttothisarticleenactedsubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticleshallapplytoanycountyortotheemployeesofanycountyunlessanduntilmutuallyagreedtobytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesandadoptedbymajorityresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31499.1. Definitions (Merced)Unlessthecontextotherwiserequires,thedefinitionscontainedinthissectiongovern



Article1.7,§31499.-§31499.1. 78



(e)“Member”or“generalmember”meansanemployeehiredonapermanentbasis,asdefinedbytheemployer,exceptasemployeeeligibleforsafetymembership.

(f)“Primaryinsuranceamount”meansthemonthlyretirementbenefitspayableunderthefederalsystemattheageof65.


Exceptasotherwisehereinprovided,amembershallnotbecreditedwithserviceforanyperiodoftimeinwhichthememberisabsentfromworkwithoutpay.

Unlessotherwiseprovided,serviceshallnotincludemilitaryserviceorpublicserviceotherthanservicewiththeemployer.


§31499.2. General members’ contributions; transfers to plan; refund of contributions and interest; credit for prior public service (Merced)(a)(1)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedinSection31499.3,thereshallbenogeneral

members’contributionsundertheplancreatedbythisarticle.(2)Amemberwhotransferstotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallhave


(b)(1)ExceptasprovidedinSections31499.3and31499.7andunderreciprocalprovisionsofthisarticle,amemberwhowasinpublicservicepriortobecomingamembermaynotelecttoreceivecreditinthisretirementplanforthatpublicservicetime,andmaynotreceivecreditforthatpriorpublicservice.

(2)Absencefromworkorterminationofemploymentwhileaneligibleemployeeordisabilitybeneficiary,asdefinedbyadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer,maynotbeconsideredasbreakingthecontinuityofservice.

(3)Forthepurposesofsubdivision(b)ofSection31499.4,anunpaidleaveofabsenceofnottoexceedoneyear,oraleaveofabsenceforwhichanemployeereceivesanybenefitwhichhasbeenapprovedbytheemployer,maynotbeconsideredaninterruptionofservice.However,theperiodoftimeofunpaidleavemaynotbeconsideredasserviceincalculatingthebenefitsotherwiseprovidedunderthisarticle.

(AddedbyStats.1983,Ch.558,Sec.4,EffectiveJuly28,1983)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.13)

Article1.7,§31499.1.-§31499.2.79

§31499.3. Credit for public service prior to becoming member; interruption of service (Merced)(a)Anactivemembergovernedbytheprovisionsofthisarticlemayelect,bywritten

noticefiledwiththeboard,tomakecontributionsandreceivecreditinthisretirementsystemforservicewiththecountythatwasrenderedpriortohisorhercurrentmembershipinthesystemandforwhichheorshewouldnototherwisebeentitledtoreceivecreditpursuanttothisarticle.

(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,servicecreditreceivedbyamemberpursuanttothissectionmaynotbecountedtomeettheminimumqualificationsforserviceordisabilityretirement,additionalcost-of-livingbenefits,healthcarebenefits,oranyotherbenefitsbasedonservicecredit.

(c)Anymemberwhoelectstomakecontributionsandreceiveservicecreditpursuanttothissectionshallcontributetotheretirementfund,priortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirementor,ifapplicable,priortothedateprovidedinSection31485.7,bylump-sum paymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceed10years,anamountthatisequaltothepresentvalueoftheadditionalliabilityincurredbythesystemincreditingthepriorservice,baseduponactuarialassumptionsineffectfortheretirementsystematthetimetheelectionismade.

(d)Nomembermayreceiveanyservicecreditunderthissectionforwhichheorshehasnotcompletedpaymentpursuanttosubdivision(c)beforetheeffectivedateofhisorherretirementor,ifapplicable,beforethedateprovidedinSection31485.7.Subjecttothelimitationsoffederallaw,amemberwhohaselectedtomakepaymentsininstallmentsmaycompletepaymentbylumpsumatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.

(e)Anysumspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredtobeandadministeredascontributionsbythemember.


(AddedbyStats.1983,Ch.558,Sec.4,EffectiveJuly28,1983.Repealed2004)(AddedStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.15.Formersectionrepealedin2004.Ch.533,

Sec.4)

§31499.4. Retirement of member; vested membership; computation of allowance (Merced)(a)Retirementofamemberorformermemberwhohasmettherequirementsforage





(e)Thenormalretirementpensionshallconsistofanannualallowancepayableinmonthlyinstallmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberequalto2percentofhisorherfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicetotheprecedingcompletedmonthtowhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,nottoexceed35years,addedto1percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofserviceinexcessof35,nottoexceed10years,reducedbytheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount,if

Article1.7,§31499.3.-§31499.4. 80

any,multipliedbythefractionofthenumberofyearsofservicewiththeemployersubjecttocoverageunderthefederalsystem,nottoexceed35years,dividedby35.



Age ERA Factor 55 .39 56 .43 57 .47 58 .51 59 .56 60 .61 61 .67 62 .74 63 .82 64 .90

TheERAFactorssetforthinthissubdivisionshallbeuseduntiladjustedbytheboardinaccordancewiththeinterestandmortalitytablesadoptedbytheboard.





(i)Atthetimeofapplicationforretirement,thememberorformermembershallprovideadequateproof(1)ofageand(2)oftheeligibilityofpersons,ifany,whoatthattimewouldotherwisequalifyforthesurvivorallowanceprovidedforinSection31499.8.

Article1.7,§31499.4.81

(j)Notwithstandingsubdivision(e)ofSection31499.4,anyretiredmemberreceivinganormalretirementpensionshall,assoonaspossiblebutnotlaterthansixmonthsfollowingretirement,presentevidencerequiredbytheboardoftheretiredmember’sactualprimaryinsuranceamount.Forpurposesofthissubdivision,theactualprimaryinsuranceamountshallbetheamountpayableunderthefederalsystemontheretiredmember’sdateofretirementwithoutregardtodelayedretirementcreditoranydeductionsonaccountofwork.Followingreceiptofthatevidence,theboardshalladjusttheretiredmember’spensionfromthedateofretirementtoequaltheamountofthepensiontowhichheorshewouldhavebeenentitledonthatdatehadtheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountequaledtheactualprimaryinsuranceamount.


§31499.5. Death of retired member; survivors’ benefits (Merced)(a)Uponthedeathofaretiredmember,50percentoftheretirementpension,ifnot

modifiedinaccordancewiththeoptionalsurvivorallowanceinsubdivision(b),shallbecontinued during and throughout the life of his or her surviving spouse, if he or she was marriedtothememberatleastoneyearpriortothedateofretirement.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtothisallowance,orifheorshediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedretiredmember,includingstepchildoradoptedchild,attainstheageof18years,thentheallowancewhichthesurvivingspousewouldhavereceivedhadsheorhelived,shallbepaidtothedeceasedretiredmember’schildorchildrenundertheageof18years.Ifthesurvivorallowanceistobepaidtosurvivingchildren,theallowanceshallbedividedamongthechildreninequalamounts.However,therightofanychildtoshareintheallowanceshallceaseuponhisorherdeath,marriage,oruponattainingtheageof18years.


(b)Avestedmember,orvestedformermember,inlieuofthenormalorearlyretirementpensionfortheretiredmember’slifealone,mayelecttohavetheactuarialequivalentoftheretiredmember’spensionasofthedateofretirementappliedtoalesseramountpayablethroughouttheretiredmemberslife,andthereaftertohavesurvivorallowanceasapprovedbytheboard,upontheadviceofactuary,continuedthroughoutthelifeofandpaidtothepersonorpersonshavinganinsurableinterestinthelifeoftheretiredmember,asthememberorformermembernominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboardatthetimeofretirement.

(c)Designationspursuanttosubdivision(b)shallnot,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,placeanyadditionalburdenupontheretirementsystem.


§31499.6. Election of employee to become member (Merced)Anypersonemployedsubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticlewhowould



Article1.7,§31499.4.-§31499.6. 82

§31499.7. Transfers to plan (Merced)(a)Generalmembersmay,within180daysoftheeffectivedateofthisarticle,electto

transfertotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleuponproperapplicationexecutedbythememberandfiledwiththeboard.Suchtransferisvoluntaryandshallbeirrevocable.


(c)Transferringmembersrelinquishandwaiveanyandallpreviouslyavailablevestedoraccruedretirement,survivor,disabilityanddeathbenefits.However,notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthisarticle,atransferringmembershallreceivecreditfornomorethan24monthsofpublicserviceperformedpriortoDecember31,1969,includingservicewiththeemployer,militaryservice,andanyotherpublicservicetowhichthememberwouldotherwisebeeligibleunderthischapter,exceptthatmembercontributionsshallnotbecollected.

(d)Anymemberwhohaselectedortransferredtotheplancreatedbythisarticleandwhoterminateshisorheremploymentandislaterreemployedshallnotbeentitledtochangehisorherelectionuponsuchreemployment.


§31499.8. Employer contribution (Merced)Untilthecompletionofthenextregularlyscheduledactuarialsurveyoftheretirement



§31499.9. Severability (Merced)Ifanyprovisionofthisarticle,ortheapplicationthereof,toanypersonorcircumstances,



Article 1.8Alternative Optional, Integrated, Noncontributory Plan for Counties of the 20th Class

(Stanislaus)(Article1.8addedbyStats.1985,Ch.175,Sec.1,ApplicableasprescribedbySection31499.10)

§31499.10. Retirement Plan 3; applicability of article, purpose; calculation of pension(a)TheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallbeknownasRetirementPlan3.(b)Thisarticleshallbeapplicableintheretirementsystemofanycountyofthe20th

classasdescribedbySection28041,iftheboardofsupervisorsadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthearticleshallbeapplicable.


(d)Theretirementbenefitsof(1)allgeneralmembersemployedafterthedatethisarticleismadeoperativeandwhoelecttheplancreatedbythisarticleand(2)existinggeneral

Article1.7,§31499.7.-Article1.8,§31499.10.83

memberswhotransfertotheplancreatedbythisarticle,shallbegovernedbythisarticle.(e)Intheeventofaconflict,thisarticleshallsupersedeandprevailoverother

provisionsorapplicationofprovisionsotherwisecontainedinthischapter.(f)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedbelow,theprovisionscontainedinthischaptershall

apply:(1)Article9(commencingwithSection31700)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(2)Article10(commencingwithSection31720)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(3)Article11(commencingwithSection31760)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(4)Article12(commencingwithSection31780)ofthischaptershallnotbeapplicable.(5)Article16.5(commencingwithSection31870)ofthischaptershallnotbe


retirement.ThoseprovisionsofArticle15dealingwithdisabilityretirement,deathbenefits,andtherequirementsrelatingtothedepositofaccumulatedmembercontributionsshallnotbeapplicable.


(i)Unlessspecificallyotherwiseprovided,noamendmenttothisarticlesubsequenttothe effective date of this article shall apply to any county or to the employees of any county unlessmutuallyagreedtobytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesandadoptedbymajorityresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.

(AddedbyStats,1985,Ch.175,Sec.1)

§31499.11. Definitions (Stanislaus)Unlessthecontextotherwiserequires,thedefinitionscontainedinthissectiongovern



SocialSecurityAct.(d)“Finalcompensation”meanstheaverageannualcompensationearnablebya

generalmemberduringanythreeyears,whetherornotconsecutive,forapersonwhobecameageneralmemberoftheplanpriortoJanuary1,2013,or,forapersonwhobecameageneralmemberoftheplanonorafterJanuary1,2013,finalcompensationmeanstheaverageannualcompensationearnablebyageneralmemberduringany36consecutivemonths,tobeelectedbythememberatorbeforethetimeanapplicationforretirementisfiled,or,ifnoelectionismade,duringthethreeyearsinwhichthememberorformermemberlastearnedcompensationprecedingretirement.Ifamemberorformermemberhaslessthanthreeyearsofservice,finalcompensationshallbedeterminedbydividingtotalcompensationbythenumberofmonthsofservicecreditedtothememberorformermemberandmultiplyingby12.Innoeventshallfinalcompensationincludeanydisabilitybenefitsreceivedbythememberorformermemberunderadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer.

Article1.8,§31499.10.-§31499.11. 84

(e)“Member”or“generalmember”meansanemployeehiredonapermanentbasis,asdefinedbytheemployer,exceptanemployeeeligibleforsafetymember.


(g)“Service”meanstheperiodofuninterruptedemploymentofamemberandthetimeinwhichamemberorformermember(1)istotallydisabled,and(2)is

receivingdisabilitybenefitsoriseligibletoreceivedisabilitybenefitseitherduringorafteranyeliminationorqualifyingperiod,underadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer.

(h)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthisarticle,amembershallnotbecreditedwithserviceforanyperiodoftimeinwhichthememberisabsentfromworkwithoutpay.

(i)Unlessotherwiseprovided,serviceshallnotincludemilitaryserviceorpublicserviceotherthanservicewiththeemployer.


§31499.12. No general members’ contributions; refunds for transferred members; prior public service (Stanislaus)(a)(1)ExceptasprovidedforinSection31499.13,thereshallbenogeneralmembers’

contributionsundertheplancreatedbythisarticle.(2)Amemberwhotransferstotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallhave


(b)(1)ExceptasprovidedinSections31499.13and31499.17andunderreciprocalprovisionsofthisarticle,amemberwhowasinpublicservicepriortobecomingamembermaynotelecttoreceivecreditinthisretirementplanforthepublicservicetime,andmaynotreceivecreditforthatpriorpublicservice.

(2)Absencefromworkorterminationofemploymentwhileaneligibleemployeeordisabilitybeneficiary,asdefinedbyadisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer,maynotbeconsideredasbreakingthecontinuityofservice.

(3)Forthepurposesofsubdivision(b)ofSection31499.14,anunpaidleaveofabsenceofnottoexceedoneyear,oraleaveofabsenceforwhichanemployeereceivedanybenefitthathasbeenapprovedbytheemployer,maynotbeconsideredaninterruptionofservice.However,theperiodoftimeofunpaidleavemaynotbeconsideredasserviceincalculatingthebenefitsotherwiseprovidedunderthisarticle.


§31499.13. Credit for prior public service; continuity of service; interruption of service (Stanislaus)(a)Anactivemembergovernedbytheprovisionsofthisarticlemayelect,bywritten

noticefiledwiththeboard,tomakecontributionsandreceivecreditinthisretirementsystemforservicewiththecountythatwasrenderedpriortohisorhercurrentmembershipinthesystemandforwhichheorshewouldnototherwisebeentitledtoreceivecreditpursuanttothisarticle.

(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,servicecreditreceivedbya

Article1.8,§31499.11.-§31499.13.85

memberpursuanttothissectionmaynotbecountedtomeettheminimumqualificationsforserviceordisabilityretirement,additionalcost-of-livingbenefits,healthcarebenefits,oranyotherbenefitsbasedonservicecredit.

(c)Anymemberwhoelectstomakecontributionsandreceiveservicecreditpursuanttothissectionshallcontributetotheretirementfund,priortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirementor,ifapplicable,priortothedateprovidedinSection31485.7,bylump-sum paymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceed10years,anamountthatisequaltothepresentvalueoftheadditionalliabilityincurredbythesystemincreditingthepriorservice,baseduponactuarialassumptionsineffectfortheretirementsystematthetimetheelectionismade.

(d)Nomembermayreceiveanyservicecreditunderthissectionforwhichheorshehasnotcompletedpaymentpursuanttosubdivision(c)beforetheeffectivedateofhisorherretirementor,ifapplicable,beforethedateprovidedinSection31485.7.Subjecttothelimitationsoffederallaw,amemberwhohaselectedtomakepaymentsininstallmentsmaycompletepaymentbylumpsumatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.

(e)Anysumspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredtobeandadministeredascontributionsbythemember.


(AddedbyStats,1985,Ch.175,Sec.1,Repealed2004)(AddedbyStats.2004,Ch.533(AB2234),Sec.18.Formersectionrepealedin2004.Ch.

533,Sec.4)

§31499.14. Retiring of member or former member; vesting; application; normal or early retirement pensions; computation; proof of age and eligibility (Stanislaus)(a)Retirementofamemberorformermemberwhohasmettherequirementsforage



(c)Anymemberwhoisnotvested,whoseemploymentterminated,andwhoisthenreemployedshallnotreceivecreditforhisorherpreviousservicecreditedunderPlan3,provided,thattheservicewasrenderedinPlan3.

(d)Anyvestedmemberorvestedformermemberwhohasattainedtheageof65yearsmayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplicationonaformprovidedbytheboardfornormalretirementsettingforththedesiredeffectiveretirementdate.

(e)Anyvestedmemberorvestedformermemberwhohasattainedtheageof55yearsmayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplicationonaformprovidedbytheboardforearlyretirementsettingforththedesiredeffectiveretirementdate.

(f)Thenormalretirementpensionshallconsistofanannualallowancepayableinmonthlyinstallmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberequalto2percentofhisorherfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicetotheprecedingcompletedmonthtowhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,nottoexceed35years,addedto1percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofserviceinexcessof35,nottoexceed20years,reducedbytheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount,ifany,multipliedbythefractionofthenumberofyearsofservicewiththeemployersubjecttocoverageunderthefederalsystem,nottoexceed35years,dividedby35.

Innoeventshallthenormalretirementpension,whenaddedtotheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount,exceed70percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationunlesstheyearsof

Article1.8,§31499.13.-§31499.14. 86

servicetowhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirementexceeds35,inwhichcasethe normal retirement pension, when added to the estimated primary insurance amount, shall notexceed80percentofthemember’sfinalcompensation.

(g)Theearlyretirementpensionshallconsistofanannualallowancepayableinmonthlyinstallmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberinanamountwhichistheactuarialequivalentofthenormalretirementpensiontowhichtheretiredmemberwouldbeentitledifotherwiseeligiblefornormalretirement,whichshallbecomputedbymultiplyingthenormalretirementpensionbytheearlyretirementadjustmentfactorsetforthoppositethemember’sageasofthebirthdayimmediatelyprecedingthedateofretirementinthefollowingtable:

Age ERA Factor 55 .39 56 .43 57 .47 58 .51 59 .56 60 .61 61 .67 62 .74 63 .82 64 .90

Theearlyretirementadjustmentfactorsetforthinthissubdivisionshallbeuseduntiladjustedbytheboardinaccordancewiththeinterestandmortalitytablesadoptedbytheboard.

(h)Theboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,shallestablishandadjust,asrequired,thetableofestimatedprimaryinsuranceamounts,whichshallbeutilizedincomputingtheretirementbenefit.Forpurposesofthisarticle,theprimaryinsuranceamountshallbeestimatedbasedontheemployee’sageandsalaryasofthedateofretirementorthedateofterminationofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicable,providedthat:


(2)Forthosememberswhohavenotattainedthenormalretirementageunderthefederalsystemasofthedateofretirement(A)futureearningsinemploymentcoveredbythefederalsystemshallbeassumedtocontinueattherateofpayreceivedbytheemployeefromtheemployerasofthedateofretirementorthedateofterminationofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicable,and(B)futurewagebases,asdefinedbythefederalsystem,shallbeassumedtocontinueatthewagebaseineffectintheyearofretirementortheyearofterminationofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicable,and(C)cost-of-livingincreasesintheyearofretirementanddelayedretirementcreditprovidedunderthefederalsystemshallnotbeincludedinthecalculationoftheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount.

(i)Theemployershallcertifytheyearsofservicetobecreditedatretirementandthefinalcompensationtobeutilizedincomputingthenormalandearlyretirementpension.

(j)Atthetimeofapplicationforretirement,thememberorformermembershallprovideadequateproof(1)ofageand(2)oftheeligibilityofpersons,ifany,whoatthattimewouldotherwisequalifyforthesurvivorallowanceprovidedforinSection31499.15.

(k)Notwithstandingsubdivision(f),anyretiredmemberreceivinganormalretirementpensionshall,assoonaspossiblebutnotlaterthansixmonthsfollowingretirement,present

Article1.8,§31499.14.87

evidencerequiredbytheboardoftheretiredmember’sactualprimaryinsuranceamount.Forpurposesofthissubdivision,theactualprimaryinsuranceamountshallbetheamountpayableunderthefederalsystemontheretiredmember’sdateofretirementwithoutregardtodelayedretirementcreditoranydeductionsonaccountofwork.Followingreceiptofthatevidence,theboardshalladjusttheretiredmember’spensionfromthedateofretirementtoequaltheamountofthepensiontowhichheorshewouldhavebeenentitledonthatdatehadtheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountequaledtheactualprimaryinsuranceamount.


§31499.15. Survivor allowance (Stanislaus)(a)Uponthedeathofaretiredmember,50percentoftheretirementpension,ifnot

modifiedinaccordancewiththeoptionalsurvivorallowanceinsubdivision(b),shallbecontinued during and throughout the life of his or her surviving spouse, if he or she was marriedtothememberatleastoneyearpriortothedateofretirement.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtothisallowance,orifheorshediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedretiredmember,includingstepchildoradoptedchild,attainstheageof18years,thentheallowancewhichthesurvivingspousewouldhavereceivedhadheorshelived,shallbepaidtothedeceasedretiredmember’schildorchildrenundertheageof18years.Ifthesurvivorallowanceistobepaidtosurvivingchildren,theallowanceshallbedividedamongthechildreninequalamounts.However,therightsofanychildtoshareintheallowanceshallceaseuponhisorherdeath,marriage,oruponattainingtheageof18years.


(b)Avestedmember,orvestedformermember,inlieuofthenormalorearlyretirementpensionfortheretiredmember’slifealone,mayelecttohavetheactuarialequivalentoftheretiredmember’spensionasofthedateofretirementappliedtoalesseramountpayablethroughouttheretiredmember’slife,andthereaftertohaveasurvivorallowanceasapprovedbytheboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,continuedthroughoutthelifeofandpaidtothepersonorpersonshavinganinsurableinterestinthelifeoftheretiredmember,asthememberorformermembernominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboardatthetimeofretirement.

(c)Nodesignationpursuanttosubdivision(b)shall,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,placeanyadditionalactuarialcostburdenupontheretirementsystem.


§31499.16. Certification of election to be covered by retirement plan (Stanislaus)Anypersonemployedsubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticlewhowould



Article1.8,§31499.14.-§31499.16. 88

§31499.17. Transfer to retirement plan created by this article; election and application; benefits (Stanislaus)(a)Generalmembersmay,within180daysoftheeffectivedateofthisarticle,electto

transfertotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleuponproperapplicationexecutedbythememberandfiledwiththeboard.


(c)Transferringmembersrelinquishandwaiveanyandallpreviouslyavailablevestedoraccruedretirement,survivor,disabilityanddeathbenefits.Alltransferringmemberswhosecontributionsforpublicservicehavebeenrefundedtothemshallnotreceivecreditforthatservice.

(d)AnymemberwhoselectsRetirementPlan3uponreenteringintocountyserviceandwhohasnotreceivedcreditasaPlan3memberforpreviouscountyservice,mayelecttorepurchasehisorherpreviousservicebyredepositinghisorherwithdrawncontributions,plusinterest, from date of termination, and shall then receive credit for that service under the plan statusatthetimeoforiginalemployment.

(e)Anymemberwhohaselectedortransferredtotheplancreatedbythisarticleandwhoterminateshisorheremploymentandislaterreemployedshallnotbeentitledtochangehisorherelectionuponthatreemployment,unlessaresolution,enactedbytheboardofsupervisorssubsequenttothemember’selectiontotransfertothenewplan,soprovides.

(f)Aplantransferbyamemberisvoluntaryandshallbeirrevocable,unlesstheboardofsupervisors,byresolution,authorizesRetirementPlan3memberstotransfertoaretirementplanauthorizedunderArticle8(commencingwithSection31670),underthetermsandconditionsspecifiedintheresolution.Thetermsmayinclude,butarenotlimitedto,(1)aneligibilityprovisionbasedonthenumberofyearsincountyservice,or(2)aprovisionforcreditingserviceintheplanwhich(A)themembertransferstoonlyforthatservicerenderedafteradoptionoftheresolutionor(B)aneligibilityprovisionthat,forthepurposesofArticle10(commencingwithSection31720),considersyearsincountyservicefromthedatethemembertransferstoanewplanunlessthepriorcountyservicecreditisrestored,orboth.Theresolutionmayestablishdifferentservicecreditconditionsforvariousjobclassificationsorgroups,orforvariousrepresentedbargainingunits,differentconditionsagreeduponbytheemployerandtheemployeerepresentative,orboth.Theboardofsupervisorsmayalsoestablishotherconditionsitdeemsnecessaryordesirable.

(AddedbyStats.1985,Ch.175,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2001,Ch.784(AB867),Sec.1.5,EffectiveOctober13,2001)

§31499.18. Employer contribution required to finance plan; establishment (Stanislaus)Untilthecompletionofthenextregularlyscheduledactuarialsurveyoftheretirement



§31499.19. Severability (Stanislaus)Ifanyprovisionofthisarticle,ortheapplicationthereof,toanypersonorcircumstances,



Article1.8,§31499.17.-§31499.19.89

Article 2Establishment of System

(Article2addedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31500. ProcedureAretirementsystemisestablishedinanycountyforeligibleofficersandemployeesby

theadoptionofanordinance,acceptingthischapter,by:(a)Amajorityvoteoftheelectorsvotingonthepropositionataspecialorgeneral

election;or(b)Afour-fifthsvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31501. Operative dateThischapterbecomesoperativeinanycountyoneitherJanuary1storJuly1stfollowing

theadoptionoftheordinance,asspecifiedintheordinance,butnotsoonerthan60daysafteritsadoption.


§31502. Adoption by institution operated by 2 or more counties or by district; effect; contributionsThischaptermaybemadeeffectivebyaresolutionadoptedbyamajorityofthe

governingboardorcommitteeofanyinstitutionoperatedbytwoormorecounties,orbyamajorityofthegoverningboardorcommitteeofanydistrictasdefinedinsubdivision(c)ofSection31468,ifoneofthecountiesinvolvedintheoperationoftheinstitutionhasadopteditsprovisions,or,inthecaseofadistrictasdefinedinsubdivision(c)ofSection31468,ifoneofthecountiescomprisingtheorganizationorassociationhasadopteditsprovisions.Upontheadoptionoftheresolutiontheemployeesoftheinstitutionshallbecomemembersoftheretirementsystemofthecountydesignatedbythegoverningboardorcommitteeoftheinstitution,andallcontributionsmadebytheemployeesandbytheinstitutionshallbepaidintothecountyretirementsystemofthecountyselected.Thegoverningboardorcommitteeshallcausetobepaidtothecountyoperatingtheretirementsystem,theinstitution’sproportionateshareofthecostofoperationofthesystem.


§31503. Previous systems supersededAretirementsystemestablishedpursuanttothischaptershallsupersedeanypreviously

establishedcountypensionsystem.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1953,Ch.789,Sec.1)

§31505. Sufficient assets to remain with superseded system to pay persons retiredTheassetsandrecordsofasupersededsystemshallbecometheassetsandrecordsof

thisretirementsystem,butthereshallbelefttothesupersededsystemnotestablishedpursuanttoeitherChapter4orChapter5,sufficientassets,accordingtotablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,topayallretirementpaymentsorannuitiestopersonswhohavebeenretiredunderthesupersededretirementsystem.


Article2,§31500.-§31505. 90

§31506. Retired members of superseded systems to be paidAllpreviouslyretiredmembersofthesupersededsystemshallbepaidfortheir

respective lives the full amount of the retirement payments or annuities to which they are entitled.


§31507. Appropriation to meet obligations of superseded systemsTheretirementboardcreatedbythischaptershalldeterminetheamountandkindof

assetsnecessarytomeettherequirementsofSection31506,andiftheamountsodeterminedprovesinsufficient,thecountyshallannuallyappropriatethesumnecessarytofulfilltherequirements.


§31508. Administration of assets; transfer of superseded system’s assetsTheassetsshallbeadministeredsolelybytheboardsubjecttotheprovisionsofthis

chapterastothecustody,investment,anddisbursementoftheretirementfund.Ifthereareassetsofthesupersededsystemremainingaftertheterminationofallliabilitiesofthesupersededsystem,theremainingassetsshallbetransferredtoandbecomepartoftheretirementfund.


§31509. Withdrawal of special contributions to superseded systemAmemberwhohasmadespecialcontributionstoasupersededsystemshallhavethe

optionofwithdrawingsuchspecialcontributionstogetherwithinterestthereon,followingthetransferofcontributionstothissystem,orofpermittingthecontributionstoremainasadditionalcontributionstothissystem.Anymemberelectingtomakesuchwithdrawalshalldosobywrittennoticeaddressedtotheboardwithin90daysaftertheeffectivedateofthissystem.


Article 2.1Additional Plan for Counties of the First Class (Los Angeles)

(Article2.1addedbyStats.1989,Ch.1300,Sec.1,EffectiveOctober1,1989,ApplicableasprescribedbySection31510)

§31510. Los Angeles County; application of article; purpose; limitations on benefits; priority of application (Los Angeles)(a)Thisarticleshallbeapplicabletoallmembersoftheretirementsystemofanycounty

ofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.

(b)Thepurposeofthisarticleistoprovideadefinedcontributionplanwhich,inconjunctionwithretirementbenefitprovisionsotherwisecontainedinthischapter,willprovideapproximatelythesamelevelofretirementbenefitstopersonswhofirstbecomemembersonorafterJanuary1,1990,andaresubjecttothelimitationssetforthinSection415oftheInternalRevenueCodeof1986,astheywouldreceiveundertheotherretirementbenefitprovisionsintheabsenceofthoselimitations,whilenotaffectingtherateofeithermemberoremployer

Article2,§31506.-Article2.1,§31510.91

contributionstotheretirementsystem.Inaddition,itisintendedthatsubdivisions(c)and(d)constituteanelectionunderSection414(b)(10)(C)oftheInternalRevenueCodeof1986withrespecttoallretirementplanswithintheretirementsystem.

(c)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthispart,thebenefitspayabletoanypersonwhofirstbecomesamemberonorafterJanuary1,1990,shallbesubjecttothelimitationssetforthinSection415oftheInternalRevenueCodeof1986,asadjustedpursuanttoSection414(d)(1)(A)and(B).

(d)Notwithstandinganyotherlaw,thebenefitspayabletoanypersonwhofirstbecameamemberpriortoJanuary1,1990,shallnotbesubjecttothelimitationssetforthinSection415(b)oftheInternalRevenueCodeof1986,excepttotheextentrequiredbysubsection(b)(10)(A)ofSection415.

(e)Theelectiondescribedinsubdivision(b)shallapplytoallemployerswhoseemployeesaremembersoftheretirementsystemofthecountyonDecember31,1989.

(f)TheretirementbenefitsofallpersonswhofirstbecomemembersoftheretirementsystemonorafterJanuary1,1990,andparticipateinSafetyPlanBorGeneralPlanDshallbegovernedbythischapterapplicabletothoseplansandbythisarticle.

(g)Subdivisions(c)and(d)shallnotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorshastakentheactionsrequiredbysubdivision(a)ofSection31510.2.

(h)Intheeventofaconflict,thisarticleshallsupersedeandprevailoverotherprovisionsorapplicationofprovisionsotherwisecontainedinthischapter.


§31510.1. Definitions (Los Angeles)Unlessthecontextotherwiserequires,thedefinitionscontainedinthissectiongovern

theconstructionofthisarticle.(a)“Board”meanstheboardofretirement.(b)“Employer”meansthecounty,district,oragencywhoseemployeesaremembersof

theretirementsystemofthecounty.(c)“GeneralPlanF”meansthedefinedcontributionplanestablishedinaccordancewith

thisarticleforthebenefitofcertainmembersofGeneralPlanD.(d)“PlanF”meansGeneralPlanFandSafetyPlanF,collectively.(e)“Priorplan”meansSafetyPlanBorGeneralPlanD,asthecontextrequires.(f)“SafetyPlanF”meansthedefinedcontributionplanestablishedinaccordancewith

thisarticleforthebenefitofcertainmembersinSafetyPlanB.(AddedbyStats,1989,Ch.1300,Sec.1,EffectiveOctober1,1989)

§31510.2. General and Safety Plan F; establishment; participants; credit of prior contributions; benefits; compliance with federal tax law; administration; annuity defined; termination of plan (Los Angeles)(a)Theboardofsupervisorsofanycountysubjecttothisarticleshallestablishtwo

definedcontributionretirementplansauthorizedbySection401oftheInternalRevenueCodeof1986.Thetermsoftheplansshallbemutuallyagreedtobytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesofaffectedemployeespriortoadoptionoramendmentbytheboardofsupervisors.TheplansshallbeknownasGeneralPlanFandSafetyPlanFandarereferredtocollectivelyasplanF.

(b)Anygeneralmemberdescribedinsubdivision(f)ofSection31510shallparticipateinGeneralPlanF,andanysafetymemberdescribedinsubdivision(f)ofSection31510shallparticipateinSafetyPlanF,aftercommencementofhisorherparticipationinthepriorplan.

(c)Theboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,shalldeterminetheportionofthe

Article2.1,§31510.-§31510.2. 92

membercontributionsotherwiserequiredunderthepriorplanthatshallbecreditedtoplanFinlieuofbeingcreditedtotheotherplan.Indoingso,theboardshallprovideforthelevelofcontributionstoplanFthatistheminimumamountsufficienttosatisfythepurposessetforthinsubdivision(b)ofSection31510.

(d)TherightofthemembertobenefitsderivedfrommembercontributionsvestsunderplanFuponthecommencementofparticipationinplanF.

(e)Ifamemberorbeneficiarybecomesentitledtoreceiveabenefitintheformofanannuityunderthetermsofthepriorplan,themember’saccountinplanFshallbeconvertedtothesameformofannuityasispayabletothememberorbeneficiaryfromthepriorplan.Theamountoftheannuitypayableunderthepriorplan,calculatedpriortotheapplicationofthisarticle(includingthelimitationssetforthinSection415oftheInternalRevenueCodeof1986),shallbereducedbytheamountoftheannuitygeneratedunderplanFasdescribedintheprecedingsentence.TheamountpayablefromplanFshallbepaidatthesametimeandinthesamemannerastheannuitypayablefromthepriorplanandmaybeprovidedthrough an annuity contract purchased from an insurance company, at the discretion of the board.Notwithstandingtheforegoing,ifthemember’saccountinplanFdoesnotexceedthreethousandfivehundreddollars($3,500),itshallbepaidtothememberorbeneficiaryasalump-sumpayment,inlieuofthebenefitotherwisepayableunderplanF.

(f)Ifamemberorbeneficiarybecomesentitledtoreceivethemember’saccumulatedcontributionsandinterestfromthepriorplan,thememberorbeneficiaryshallreceivethemember’saccountbalancefromplanFconsistingofthemember’saccumulatedcontributionsandactualearningsatthesametimeandinthesamemanner.

(g)InapplyingthelimitationssetforthinSection415oftheInternalRevenueCodeof1986,benefitsorannualadditionsinqualifiedretirementplansmaintainedbyanemployerseparatefromtheretirementsystemshallbereducedfirst.AnyadditionalreductionshallbemadetothebenefitsfromplanswithintheretirementsystemotherthanplanF,andthenlastlytotheannualadditiontoplanF.

(h)PlanFshallbeadministeredinaccordancewithsubsection(a)ofSection401oftheInternalRevenueCodeof1986andtheTreasuryRegulationsissuedthereunder.Theplanshallstatethatitisintendedtobeaprofit-sharingplanwhereincontributionsaredeterminedwithoutregardtocurrentoraccumulatedprofits.

(i)Forthepurposeofthisarticle,theterm“annuity”meansthecombinedbenefitprovidedbyanannuity,asdefinedinSection31457,andthepension,asdefinedinSection31471.

(j)TotheextentanycountysubjecttothisarticleterminatesGeneralPlanForSafetyPlanF,orbothofthem,withrespecttoanygroupofmembersandinaccordancewiththeirtermsandadoptsareplacementbenefitsprogramunderSection31899.4forthosemembersinlieuofthatplanorplans,thissectionshallbeinoperativeinthatcountywithrespecttothosemembers.Inanyevent,theelectionmadepursuanttosubdivision(b)ofSection31510,theprovisionsofsubdivisions(c),(d),(e),(f),and(h)ofSection31510,andtheprovisionsofSection31510.3shallremainoperativeinthatcounty.

(AddedbyStats.1989,Ch.1300,Sec.1,EffectiveOctober1,1989)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.2)

§31510.3. Disability benefits (Los Angeles)Itisintendedthatdisabilitybenefitspayablefromtheretirementsystempursuant

toArticle10(commencingwithSection31720),intheeventofthemember’sterminationofemploymentfordisability,arecompensationforpersonalinjuryorsickness,andthereforewouldnotbesubjecttothelimitationssetforthinSection415oftheInternalRevenueCode

Article2.1,§31510.2.-§31510.3.93

of1986.IftheInternalRevenueServicerulesthatthedisabilitybenefitsaresubjecttothoselimitations,anyemployerwhichissubjecttothisarticleshallprovideanalternatedisabilitybenefitequaltothedecreaseinthedisabilitybenefitcausedbyapplicationofthoselimitations,throughalong-termdisabilityplanwhichshallbeseparatefromtheretirementsystem.Thetermsofthatlong-termdisabilityplanshallbemutuallyagreedtobytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesandadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors.


§31510.4. Contributions; maintenance to not affect; interest credit (Los Angeles)ItisintendedthatthemaintenanceofplanFnotaffecttherateofeithermemberor

employercontributionstotheretirementsystem.TheboardmaysetarateofregularinterestcreditedtocontributionstothepriorplanmadewithrespecttomembersparticipatinginplanFthatisdifferentthantherateofregularinterestcreditedtocontributionsmadewithrespecttomembersnotparticipatinginplanF,ifnecessarytoeffectuatethatintent.


Article 2.6Alternative Plan for Counties of the 13th Class (Ventura)

(Article2.6addedbyStats.1985,Ch.1480,Sec.1)

§31511. Creation and name of plan; purpose; applicability; conflicting laws (Ventura)(a)TheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallbeknownasRetirementPlan3.(b)Thisarticleshallbeapplicableintheretirementsystemofanycountyofthe

13thclassasdescribedbySections28020and28034,iftheboardofsupervisorsexecutesamemorandumofunderstandingagreementwithemployeerepresentativesandadopts,byamajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthearticleshallbeapplicable.

(c)Thepurposeofthisarticleistoprovideanoncontributoryretirementplanforgeneralmembersasanalternativetotheprovisionsandbenefitsotherwisecontainedinthischapter.

(d)Theretirementbenefitsof(1)allgeneralmembersemployedafterthedatethisarticleismadeoperativeand(2)existinggeneralmemberswhotransfertotheplanhereincreated,shallbegovernedbythisarticle.


(f)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedbelow,theprovisionscontainedinthischapter shall apply:

(1)Article10(commencingwithSection31720)shallnotapply.(2)Article16.5(commencingwithSection31870)shallnotapply.

(g)Article15(commencingwithSection31830)shallonlybeapplicableforserviceretirement.ThoseprovisionsofArticle15(commencingwithSection31830)dealingwithdisabilityretirementandtherequirementrelatingtothedepositofaccumulatedmembercontributionsshallnotapply.

(h)Exceptasotherwiseprovided,anymemberwhouponretirementreceivesaretirement pension calculated in accordance with sections or provisions added to this article subsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticleshallhavehisorherpensioncalculatedundereach such section or provision only for the period of time that those sections or provisions wereineffect,unlessotherwisemutuallyagreedbetweentheemployeranditsemployee

Article2.1,§31510.3.-Article2.6,§31511. 94

representatives.(i)Unlessspecificallyotherwiseprovidedtherein,noamendmenttothisarticleenacted

subsequenttotheeffectivedateofthisarticleshallapplytoanycountyortotheemployeesofanycountyunlessanduntilmutuallyagreedtobytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesandadoptedbymajorityresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31511.1. Definitions; establishment of defined contribution retirement plan (Ventura)Unlessthecontextotherwiserequires,thedefinitionscontinuedinthissectiongovern



SocialSecurityAct.(d)“Member”or“generalmember”meansanemployeehiredonapermanentbasis,as

definedbytheemployer,exceptanemployeeeligibleforsafetymembership.(e)“Primaryinsuranceamount”meansthemonthlyretirementbenefitpayableunder

thefederalsystematthenormalretirementage.(f)“Service”meanstheperiodofemploymentofamemberandthetimeinwhicha

memberorformermember(1)istotallydisabled,and(2)isreceivingdisabilitybenefitsoriseligibletoreceivedisabilitybenefitseitherduringorafteranyeliminationorqualifyingperiod,underalong-termdisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer.

Exceptasotherwisehereinprovided,amembershallnotbecreditedwithserviceforanyperiodoftimeinwhichthememberisabsentfromworkwithoutpay.

Unlessotherwiseprovided,serviceshallnotincludemilitaryserviceorpublicserviceotherthanservicewiththeemployer.

(g)“Finalcompensation”meanstheaverageannualcompensationearnablebyamemberduringanythreeyearselectedbyamemberatorbeforethetimeheorshefilesanapplication for retirement, or, if he or she fails to elect, during the three years immediately precedinghisorherretirement.Ifamemberhaslessthanthreeyearsofservice,hisorherfinalcompensationshallbedeterminedbydividinghisorhertotalcompensationbythenumberofmonthsofservicecreditedtohimorherandmultiplyingby12.

TheboardofsupervisorsofanycountysubjecttothisarticleshallestablishadefinedcontributionretirementplanauthorizedbySection401oftheUnitedStatesCode.


§31511.2. General members contributions; refund to members electing transfer to plan (Ventura)(a)Thereshallbenogeneralmembers’contributionsundertheplancreatedbythis

article.(b)Norefundshallbemadetoanymemberwhoelectstotransfertotheretirementplan

createdbythisarticleofthemember’saccumulatedcontributions.Amemberwhoelectstotransfertotheretirementplanestablishedpursuanttothisarticleshallreceive:servicecredittowardvestingundertheotherretirementplan;apensionfromtheotherretirementplanbasedupon his or her credited service on the day prior to the operative date of the transfer to the retirementplanestablishedpursuanttothisarticle;andapensionfromtheretirementplanestablishedpursuanttothisarticlebaseduponservicecreditedonandaftertheoperativedate

Article2.6,§31511.-§31511.2.95

ofthetransfertotheretirementplanestablishedpursuanttothisarticle.(AddedbyStats,1985,Ch.1480,Sec.1)

§31511.3. Interruptions in service (Ventura)(a)Absencefromworkorterminationofemploymentwhileaneligibleemployeeor

disabilitybeneficiary,asdefinedbythelong-termdisabilityplanprovidedbytheemployer,shallnotbeconsideredasbreakingthecontinuityofservice.

(b)Forthepurposesofsubdivision(b)ofSection31511.4,anunpaidleaveofabsencewhichhasbeenapprovedbytheemployer,shallnotbeconsideredaninterruptionofservice.However,theperiodoftimeofunpaidleaveshallnotbeconsideredasserviceincalculatingtheretirementbenefitsotherwiseprovidedunderthisarticle.


§31511.4. Vested membership; age and service at retirement; early retirement adjustments(a)Retirementofamemberwhohasmettherequirementsforageandserviceshallbe

madebytheboard,atwhichtimethememberbecomesaretiredmember.(b)Anymemberwhohascompleted10yearsofserviceshallbevestedunderthe

retirementplancreatedbythisarticle.(c)Anyvestedmemberwhohasattainednormalretirementagemayberetiredupon

filingwiththeboardawrittenapplicationonaformprovidedbytheboardfornormalretirementsettingforththedesiredeffectiveretirementdate.Forpurposesofthisarticle,normalretirementdatemeansthefirstdayofthemonthcoincidentwithornextfollowingthemember’snormalretirementage.Forpurposeofthisarticle,normalretirementagemeans:

For Persons Born Normal Retirement Age 1937orbefore 65 1938 65and2months 1939 65and4months 1940 65and6months 1941 65and8months 1942 65and10months 1943-1954 66 1955 66and2months 1956 66and4months 1957 66and6months 1958 66and8months 1959 66and10months 1960andlater 67

(d)Anyvestedmemberwhohasattainedtheageof55yearsmayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplicationonaformprovidedbytheboardforearlyretirementsettingforththedesiredeffectiveretirementdate.

(e)Thenormalretirementpensionforamemberwhohasattainednormalretirementageshallconsistofanannualallowancepayableinmonthlyinstallmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberequalto:2.333percentofhisorherfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicetotheprecedingcompletedmonthtowhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,butnottoexceed30years;reducedby2.166percentoftheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamount,ifany,multipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicetotheprecedingcompletedmonthtowhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,butnottoexceed30years,multipliedbyafraction,thenumeratorofwhichisthenumberofyearsofservicewiththeemployersubjecttocoverageunderthefederalsystem,butnottoexceed30

Article2.6,§31511.2.-§31511.4. 96

years,andthedenominatorofwhichis30.(f)Theearlyretirementpensionshallconsistofanannualallowancepayableinmonthly

installmentsforthelifeoftheretiredmemberinanamountwhichistheactuarialequivalentofthenormalretirementpensiontowhichtheretiredmemberwouldbeentitledifotherwiseeligiblefornormalretirement,whichshallbecomputedbymultiplyingthenormalretirementpensionbytheearlyretirementadjustmentfactorsetforth,basedonthenumberofyearsandmonthsbywhichthemember’searlyretirementdateprecedesthemember’snormalretirementdate,inthefollowingtables:

Early Retirement Adjustment Factors Months Years 0 1 2 3 4 0 1.0000 0.9944 0.9889 0.9833 0.9778 1 0.9333 0.9278 0.9222 0.9167 0.9111 2 0.8667 0.8611 0.8556 0.8500 0.8444 3 0.8000 0.7944 0.7889 0.7833 0.7778 4 0.7333 0.7278 0.7222 0.7167 0.7111 5 0.6667 0.6639 0.6611 0.6583 0.6556 6 0.6333 0.6306 0.6278 0.6250 0.6222 7 0.6000 0.5972 0.5944 0.5917 0.5889 8 0.5667 0.5639 0.5611 0.5583 0.5556 9 0.5333 0.5306 0.5278 0.5250 0.5222 10 0.5000 0.4972 0.4944 0.4917 0.4889 11 0.4667 0.4639 0.4611 0.4583 0.4556 12 0.4333 0.4306 0.4278 0.4250 0.4222

Early Retirement Adjustment Factors Months Years 5 6 7 8 0 0.9722 0.9667 0.9611 0.9556 1 0.9056 0.9000 0.8944 0.8889 2 0.8389 0.8333 0.8278 0.8222 3 0.7722 0.7667 0.7611 0.7556 4 0.7056 0.7000 0.6944 0.6889 5 0.6528 0.6500 0.6472 0.6444 6 0.6194 0.6167 0.6139 0.6111 7 0.5861 0.5833 0.5806 0.5778 8 0.5528 0.5500 0.5472 0.5444 9 0.5194 0.5167 0.5139 0.5111 10 0.4861 0.4833 0.4806 0.4778 11 0.4528 0.4500 0.4472 0.4444 12 0.4194 0.4167 0.4139 0.4111

Early Retirement Adjustment Factors Months Years 9 10 11 12 0 0.9500 0.9444 0.9389 0.9333 1 0.8833 0.8778 0.8722 0.8667 2 0.8167 0.8111 0.8056 0.8000 3 0.7500 0.7444 0.7389 0.7333 4 0.6833 0.6778 0.6722 0.6667

Article2.6,§31511.4.97

Early Retirement Adjustment Factors Months Years 9 10 11 12 5 0.6417 0.6389 0.6361 0.6333 6 0.6083 0.6056 0.6028 0.6000 7 0.5750 0.5722 0.5694 0.5667 8 0.5417 0.5389 0.5361 0.5333 9 0.5083 0.5056 0.5028 0.5000 10 0.4750 0.4722 0.4694 0.4667 11 0.4417 0.4389 0.4361 0.4333 12 0.4083 0.4056 0.4028 0.4000

(g)Theboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,shallestablishandadjust,asrequired,thetableofestimatedprimaryinsuranceamounts,whichshallbeutilizedincomputingtheretirementbenefit.Forpurposesofthisarticle,theprimaryinsuranceamountshallbeestimatedbasedontheemployee’sageasofthedateofretirementorthedateofterminationofavestedmember,whicheverisapplicable,andtheemployee’searnings,providedthat:

(1)Anemployee’searningspriortothefirstdayofservicewiththeemployershallbeassumedtohavebeenzero,and

(2)Anemployee’searningsduringtheperiodofserviceshallincludeonlythoseearningspaidbytheemployer,and



(i)Notwithstandingsubdivision(e),anyretiredmemberreceivinganormalretirementpensionmaypresentevidencerequiredbytheboardoftheretiredmember’sactualprimaryinsuranceamount.Forpurposesofthissubdivision,theactualprimaryinsuranceamountshallbetheamountpayableunderthefederalsystemontheretiredmember’sdateofretirementwithoutregardtodelayedretirementcreditoranydeductionsonaccountofworkoranyreductionsonaccountofearlyretirement.Followingreceiptofthatevidence,theboardshalladjusttheretiredmember’spensionfromthedateofretirementtoequaltheamountofthepensiontowhichheorshewouldhavebeenentitledonthatdatehadtheestimatedprimaryinsuranceamountequaledtheactualprimaryinsuranceamount.

(j)Allpart-timeandintermittentemployeesofacountywhichelectstobesubjecttothisarticleshallnotbeeligibletoparticipateintheretirementplansprovidedbythisarticle.


§31511.5. Surviving spouse benefits (Ventura)Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, no surviving

spousebenefitshallbepaidtoasurvivingspouseofamemberwhoatthetimeofdeathhadnotmettheminimumageandservicecreditrequirementsforserviceretirement.


Article2.6,§31511.4.-§31511.5. 98

§31511.6. Transfer to plan; time for election (Ventura)Generalmembersmay,within180daysoftheoperativedateofthisarticle,electto

transfertotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleuponproperapplicationexecutedbythememberandfiledwiththeboard.Furthermore,anygeneralmemberwhodoesnotelecttotransferduringthis180-dayperiod,mayelecttotransferwithinthe30dayspriortoanyannualanniversaryoftheoperativedateofthisarticle.Suchatransferisvoluntaryandshallbeirrevocable.


§31511.7. Employer contribution rate; actuarial establishment (Ventura)Untilthecompletionofthenextregularlyscheduledactuarialsurveyoftheretirement

system,theemployercontributionraterequiredtofinancetheplancreatedbythisarticleshallbeestablishedbytheboard,upontherecommendationoftheactuary.


§31511.8. Cost-of-living adjustments (Ventura)TheboardshallbeforeApril1ofeachyeardeterminewhethertherehasbeenan

increaseordecreaseinthecostoflivingasprovidedinthissection.NotwithstandingSection31481oranyotherprovisionofthischapter(commencingwithSection31450),everyretirementallowance,optionaldeathallowance,orannualdeathallowancepayabletooronaccountofanymemberoftheplancreatedbythisarticlewhoretiresatorbeyondnormalretirementageordiesshall,asofApril1stofeachyear,beincreasedordecreasedbyapercentageofthetotalallowancethenbeingreceivedfoundbytheboardtoapproximatetothenearestone-halfof1percentthepercentageofannualincreaseordecreaseinthecostoflivingasofJanuary1stofeachyearasshownbythethencurrentBureauofLaborStatisticsConsumerPriceIndexforAllurbanConsumersfortheLosAngeles-Anaheim-LongBeacharea,butsuchchangesshallnotexceed5percentperyear;however,theamountofanycost-of-livingincreaseordecreaseinanyyearwhichisnotmetbythemaximumannualchangeof5percentinallowancesshallbeaccumulatedtobemetbyincreasesordecreasesinallowancesinfutureyears;exceptthatnodecreaseshallreducetheallowancebelowtheamountbeingreceivedbythememberorhisorherbeneficiaryontheeffectivedateoftheallowance.Noadjustmentshallbemadeintheretirementallowanceofamemberwhoretirespriortoattainingnormalretirementageuntilthememberattainsnormalretirementage.

(AddedbyStats.1985,Ch.1480.Sec.1)

§31511.9. Long-term disability plan (Ventura)(a)Anemployerwhichissubjecttothisarticleshallprovidedisabilitybenefitsforits

employeesthroughalong-termdisabilityplanwhichshallbeseparatefromandadministeredseparatelyfromtheretirementplansauthorizedbythisarticleandallotherretirementplans.

(b)Thelong-termdisabilityplanshallconsistofaseparatetrustwhichshallbefundedutilizingalevelcostmethodandemployercontributions.Noemployeeshallberequiredtomakeanyemployeecontributiontothelong-termdisabilityplan.

(c)Theboardofsupervisorsshallcontractfortheresolutionoftheissueofdisability.Theboardofsupervisorsshallestablishanappealsboardtowhichamemberwhoisaggrievedbyadecisionoftheadministratormayappeal.

(d)Anymemberpermanentlyincapacitatedfortheperformanceofduty,regardlessofageoryearsofservice,shallreceivedisabilitybenefitsasfollows:(1)fornottoexceedtwoyears;(2)foranytimeaftertheexpirationofthetwo-yearperiodspecifiedinsubdivision(a)if,andonlyifthememberisunabletoperformthedutiesofanyoccupationforwhichthe

Article2.6,§31511.6.-§31511.9.99

memberisqualifiedbyreasonoftrainingorexperience.(e)Thedisabilitybenefitshallbe50percentofthefinalcompensationofthemember

reducedbyanySocialSecuritybenefits,workers’compensationbenefits,andearningsfromanyemploymentotherthanemploymentwhichispartofarehabilitationprogram.


§31511.10. Plan manager; education of employees regarding benefits (Ventura)(a)Theboardofretirementshallestablishapositionwhosequalificationsshallinclude

experienceinadministrationandcommunicationofdefinedbenefitplansanddefinedcontributionplansandwhosedutiesshallincludemanagementoftheplanorplansadoptedpursuanttothisarticleandreportingtothecountytreasurerandthedirectorofpersonnel.

(b)TheboardofretirementshallestablishandimplementacomprehensivecommunicationprogramtoeducateemployeesregardingthebenefitsavailableunderthisarticleandSocialSecurity.


§31511.11. Internal Revenue Code Section 401 plan; establishment (Ventura)(a)Theboardofsupervisorsofanycountysubjecttothisarticleshallestablishadefined

contributionretirementplanauthorizedbySection401oftheInternalRevenueCodeof1954orasimilarplanauthorizedbytheInternalRevenueCodeof1954.

(b)Anyfull-timeemployeeofthecountywhoishiredbythecountyonoraftertheoperativedateofthisarticleinthatcountyandhascompleted6monthsofcreditedfull-timeservicewiththecountyoranymemberwhoelectstotransfertotheretirementplancreatedbythisarticleshallparticipateintheplan.

(c)Thecountyshallpartiallyorfullymatchthecontributionsoftheemployeesonthebasismutuallyagreedtobytheboardofsupervisorsandtheemployeerepresentatives.

(d)Therightoftheemployeetobenefitsderivedfromemployeecontributionsvestsuponthecommencementoftheparticipationbytheemployeeintheplan.

(e)Therightoftheemployeetobenefitsderivedfrommatchingemployercontributionsvests100percentafterfiveyearsoffull-timeservicewiththecounty.

(f)Uponterminationoftheemploymentofanemployeewhosebenefitsderivedfromemployercontributionsarenotvested,benefitsderivedfromthecontributionsoftheemployeeshallberefundedtotheemployeeandthematchingcontributionsoftheemployershallbecreditedtoreducefutureemployercontributionsortopayexpensesoftheplan.

(g)Thedefinedcontributionplanshallacceptrollovercontributionsfromotherplanstotheextentauthorizedbyfederallaw.

(h)Theplanshallbeadministeredinaccordancewithsubdivision(k)ofSection401oftheUnitedStatesCode.


Article 2.7General Limitations

(Article2.7addedbyStats.1995,Ch.558(SB226),Sec.2)

§31515. County Employees Retirement Law of 1937; legislative intent; citeItistheintentoftheLegislaturetospecificallyincludeintheCountyEmployees

RetirementLawofl937provisionsoflawthatlimitpublicretirementbenefits,otherthanhealth

Article2.6,§31511.9.-Article2.7,§31515. 100

benefits,forthemembersofthelegislativebodiesofcountiesanddistrictsandprovisionsrespectingtheimpactofsalaryandbenefitincreasesuponthefundingstatusofcountyretirementsystems.

ThischaptershallbeknownandmaybecitedastheResponsibilityinPensionsActof1995.


§31515.5. Salary and benefit increases; agenda item at public meeting of board of supervisors; notice; estimate of actuarial impact; constructionTheboardofsupervisors,incompliancewithSection23026,shallmakepublic,ata

regularlyscheduledmeetingoftheboard,allsalaryandbenefitincreasesthataffecteitherorbothrepresentedemployeesandnonrepresentedemployees.NoticeofanysalaryorbenefitincreaseshallbeincludedontheagendaforthemeetingasanitemofbusinessincompliancewiththerequirementsofSection54954.2.Noticeshalloccurpriortotheadoptionofthesalaryorbenefitincrease,andshallincludeanexplanationofthefinancialimpactthattheproposedbenefitchangeorsalaryincreasewillhaveonthefundingstatusofthecountyemployees’retirementsystem.

Theboardofretirement,orboardofinvestmentsinacountyinwhichaboardofinvestmentshasbeenestablishedpursuanttoSection31520.2,isauthorized,consistentwithitsfiduciaryduties,tohaveanenrolledactuaryprepareanestimateoftheactuarialimpactofthesalaryorbenefitincrease.Theactuarialdatashallbereportedtotheboardofsupervisors.

NothinginthissectionshallbeconstruedtolimitorlessentherequirementimposedbySection7507thatthecostsassociatedwithincreasesinbenefitsbedeterminedbyanenrolledactuaryandpubliclydisclosedtwoweekspriortoanadoptionoftheincreaseinbenefits.


§31516. Enrolled actuary; statement of actuarial impact; release at public meetingTheboardofsupervisors,incompliancewithSection7507,shallsecuretheservicesof

an enrolled actuary to provide a statement of the actuarial impact upon future annual costs beforeauthorizingincreasesinbenefits.An“enrolledactuary”meansanactuaryenrolledunderSections1241and1242ofTitle29oftheUnitedStatesCodeand“futureannualcosts”shallinclude,butnotbelimitedto,annualdollarincreasesorthetotaldollarincreasesinvolvedwhenavailable.

Thefutureannualcostsasdeterminedbytheactuaryshallbemadepublicatapublicmeetingatleasttwoweekspriortotheadoptionofanyincreasesinbenefits.


§31517. Member of legislative body of county or district; limitations on benefits; application of section(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,asprovidedinSection53060.1,

thebenefitsofanymemberofalegislativebodyofanycountyordistrictshallbenogreaterthanthatreceivedbynonsafetyemployeesofthatpublicagency.Inthecaseofagencieswithdifferentbenefitstructures,thebenefitsofmembersofthelegislativebodyshallnotbegreaterthanthemostgenerousscheduleofbenefitsbeingreceivedbyanycategoryofnonsafetyemployees.

(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,membersofthelegislativebodyofacountyordistrictshallnotbeeligibletoaccruemultiplebenefitsgreaterthanthemostgenerousscheduleofbenefitsbeingreceivedbyanycategoryofnonsafetyemployeesfromtwoormorepublicagenciesforconcurrentserviceexceptinthecaseofamemberwhoservesasa

Article2.7,§31515.-§31517.101

regularfull-timeemployeeinaseparatepublicagency.(c)Thissectionshallbeapplicabletoanymemberofalegislativebodywhosefirst

servicecommencesonandafterJanuary1,1995.(AddedbyStats.1995,Ch.558(SB226),Sec.2)

Article 3Retirement Board


§31520. Membership; qualifications; termsExceptasotherwisedelegatedtotheboardofinvestmentandexceptforthestatutory

dutiesofthecountytreasurer,themanagementoftheretirementsystemisvestedintheboardofretirement,consistingoffivemembers,oneofwhomshallbethecountytreasurer.Thesecondandthirdmembersoftheboardshallbeactivemembersoftheassociationelectedbyitwithin30daysaftertheretirementsystembecomesoperativeinamannerdeterminedbytheboardofsupervisors.Thefourthandfifthmembersshallbequalifiedelectorsofthecountywhoarenotconnectedwithcountygovernmentinanycapacity,exceptonemaybeasupervisorandonemaybearetiredmember,andshallbechosenbytheboardofsupervisors.Thefirstpersonschosenasthesecondandfourthmembersshallservefortwoyearsfromthedatethesystembecomesoperativeandthethirdandfifthmembersshallserveforatermofthreeyearsfromthatdate.Thereafterthetermsofofficeofthefourelectedmembersarethreeyears.

Asusedinthissection“activemember”meansamemberintheactiveserviceofacounty,district,orsuperiorcourtanda“retiredmember”meansamember,includingamemberunderformerSection31555,retiredforserviceordisability.

(AmendedbyStats.1980,Ch.448,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2002,Ch.784(SB1316),Sec.188)

§31520.1. Membership in certain counties; qualifications; term; alternate member(a)InanycountysubjecttoArticles6.8(commencingwithSection31639)and7.5

(commencingwithSection31662.2),theboardofretirementshallconsistofninemembersandonealternate,oneofwhomshallbethecountytreasurer.Thesecondandthirdmembersoftheboardshallbemembersoftheassociation,otherthansafetymembers,electedbythosememberswithin30daysaftertheretirementsystembecomesoperativeinamannerdeterminedbytheboardofsupervisors.Thefourth,fifth,sixth,andninthmembersshallbequalifiedelectorsofthecountywhoarenotconnectedwiththecountygovernmentinanycapacity,exceptonemaybeasupervisor,andshallbeappointedbytheboardofsupervisors.Asupervisorappointedasamemberoftheretirementboardmaynotservebeyondhisorhertermofofficeassupervisor.Theseventhmembershallbeasafetymemberoftheassociationelectedbythesafetymembers.Theeighthmembershallbearetiredmemberelectedbytheretiredmembersoftheassociationinamannertobedeterminedbytheboardofsupervisors.Thealternatemembershallbethatcandidate,ifany,fortheseventhmemberfromthegroupunderSection31470.2or31470.4,oranyothereligiblesafetymemberinacountyifthereisnoeligiblecandidatefromthegroupsunderSections31470.2and31470.4,whichisnotrepresentedbyaboardmemberwhoreceivedthehighestnumberofvotesofallcandidatesinthatgroup,andshallbereferredtoasthealternateseventhmember.Ifthereisnoeligiblecandidatetheremaynotbeanalternateseventhmember.Thefirstpersonchosenasthesecond

Article2.7,§31517.-Article3,§31520.1. 102

andfourthmembersshallserveforatermoftwoyearsbeginningwiththedatethesystembecomesoperative,thethirdandfifthmembersshallserveforatermofthreeyearsbeginningwiththatdate,andthesixth,seventhandalternateseventhmembersshallserveforatermoftwoyearsbeginningonthedateonwhicharetirementsystemestablishedbythischapterbecomesoperative.Theeighthandninthmembersshalltakeofficeassoonaspracticableforan initial term to expire concurrent with the expiration of the longest remaining term of an electedmember.Thereafter,thetermsofofficeoftheelected,appointed,andalternateseventhmembersarethreeyears,exceptasprovidedinSection31523.

(b)Thealternateseventhmemberprovidedforbythissectionshallvoteasamemberoftheboardonlyifthesecond,third,seventh,oreighthmemberisabsentfromaboardmeetingfor any cause, or if there is a vacancy with respect to the second, third, seventh, or eighth member,thealternateseventhmembershallfillthevacancyuntilasuccessorqualifies.Thealternateseventhmembershallsitontheboardinplaceoftheseventhmemberifamemberofthesameserviceisbeforetheboardfordeterminationofhisorherretirement.

(c)Thealternateseventhmembershallbeentitledtobothofthefollowing:(1)Thealternateseventhmembershallhavethesamerights,privileges,

responsibilities,andaccesstoclosedsessionsasthesecond,third,seventh,andeighthmember.(2)Thealternateseventhmembermayholdpositionsoncommitteesoftheboard

independentofthesecond,third,seventh,oreighthmemberandmayparticipateinthedeliberationsoftheboardoranyofitscommitteestowhichthealternateseventhmemberhasbeenappointedwhetherornotthesecond,third,seventh,oreighthmemberispresent.


§31520.11. County of Contra Costa; alternative terms of office (Contra Costa)AsanalternativetothetermsofofficespecifiedinSection31520.1,theCountyofContra

Costamay,iftheboardofsupervisorsadoptsaresolution,havetermsofofficewhichexpireasfollows:

Seatnumber1,thetreasurer,whoservesontheboardofretirementexofficio,andwhosetermofofficeontheretirementboardexpireswithhisorhertermofofficeastreasurer.

Seats2,4,and8expireJune30,1992,andeverythreeyearsthereafter.Seats3,5,and9expireJune30,1993,andeverythreeyearsthereafter.Seats6,7,andalternateexpireJune30,1994,andeverythreeyearsthereafter.(AddedbyStats.1991,Ch.1226,Sec.7)

§31520.12. Counties of the ninth class; appointment of alternate members; voting rights; compensation; term(a)NotwithstandingSection31520.1,andsubjecttothelimitationsofsubdivision(c),

inanycountysubjecttoArticles6.8(commencingwithSection31639)and7.5(commencingwithSection31662),theboardofsupervisorsmay,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,appointanalternatememberforthefourth,fifth,sixth,andninthmembers.Thetermofofficeofthealternatemembershallrunconcurrentywiththetermofofficeoftheninthmember.Thealternatemembershallvoteasamemberoftheboardonlyintheeventthefourth,fifth,sixth,orninthmemberisabsentfromaboardmeetingforanycause.Ifthereisavacancywithrespecttothefourth,fifth,sixth,orninthmember,thealternatemembershallfillthatvacancyuntilasuccessorqualifies.

(b)Thealternatememberforthefourth,fifth,sixth,orninthmembershallbeentitledtothesamecompensationasthefourth,fifth,sixth,orninthmemberforattendingameeting,pursuanttoSection31521,whetherornotthefourth,fifth,sixth,orninthmemberattendsthemeeting.

Article3,§31520.1.-§31520.12.103

(c)Iftheboardofsupervisorsappointsasupervisorasthefourth,fifth,sixth,orninthmember,analternatememberappointedpursuanttosubdivision(a)maynotserveasanalternateforthatsupervisormemberunlessservicebyanalternatememberforanappointedsupervisormemberisapprovedbythemajorityoftheelectorsinthecounty.

(d)Thissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyoftheninthclass,asdefinedinSections28020and28030.


§31520.2. Board of investments in certain counties (a)Inanycountyinwhichtheassetsoftheretirementsystemexceedeighthundred

milliondollars($800,000,000),theboardofsupervisorsmay,byresolution,establishaboardofinvestments.Theboardshallconsistofninemembers,oneofwhomshallbethecountytreasurer.Thesecondandthirdmembersshallbegeneralmembersoftheassociationelectedbythegeneralmembershipoftheassociationforathree-yearterm.Thefourthmembershallbeasafetymemberelectedbythesafetymembershipoftheassociationforathree-yearterm.Theeighthmembershallbearetiredmemberoftheassociationelectedbytheretiredmembershipoftheassociationforathree-yearterm.Thefifth,sixth,seventh,andninthmembersshallbequalifiedelectorsofthecountywhoarenotconnectedwithcountygovernmentinanycapacity,andshallbeappointedbytheboardofsupervisors.Theyshallalsohavehadsignificantexperienceininstitutionalinvesting,eitherasinvestmentofficerofabank,ortrustcompany;orasinvestmentofficerofaninsurancecompany,orinanactive,oradvisory,capacityastoinvestmentsofinstitutionalorendowmentfunds.Thefirstpersonchosenasafifth,sixth,orseventhmembershallserveforathree-yearterm,thesecondpersonchosenshallserveafour-yearterm,andthethirdpersonchosenshallserveatwo-yearterm.Thefirstpersonappointedastheninthmembershallserveaone-yearterm.Thereafter,alltermsofallappointedmembersshallbethreeyears.

(b)Theboardofinvestmentsshallberesponsibleforallinvestmentsoftheretirementsystem.


§31520.3. Counties of the 16th class; appointment and election of alternate retired member; term (Santa Barbara)(a)NotwithstandingSection31520.1,theboardofretirementofacountyofthe16th

class,asdefinedbySections28020and28037,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,may,bymajorityvote,appoint,fromalistofnomineessubmittedbyanorganizationconsistingsolelyofretiredmembers,analternateretiredmembertotheofficeoftheeighthmember,whoshallserveuntiltheexpirationofthecurrenttermofthecurrenteighthmemberandthereafterthealternateretiredmembershallbeelectedbytheretiredmembersoftheassociationinthesamemannerandatthesametimeastheeighthmemberiselected.

(b)Thetermofofficeofthealternateretiredmembershallrunconcurrentlywiththetermofofficeoftheeighthmember.Thealternateretiredmembershallvoteasamemberoftheboardonlyintheeventtheeighthmemberisabsentfromaboardmeetingforanycause.Ifthereisavacancywithrespecttotheeighthmember,thealternateretiredmembershallfillthatvacancyfortheremainderoftheeighthmember’stermofoffice.

(c)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(b),thealternateretiredmembershallbeentitledtothesamerightsandprivilegesandshallhavethesameresponsibilitiesandaccesstoclosedsessionsastheeighthmember.Thealternateretiredmembermayholdpositionsoncommitteesoftheboardindependentoftheeighthmemberandmayparticipateinthedeliberationsoftheboardoranyofitscommitteestowhichthealternateretiredmemberhasbeenappointedwhetherornottheeighthmemberispresent.

Article3,§31520.12.-§31520.3. 104

(d)Thealternateretiredmembershallbeentitledtothesamecompensationastheeighthmemberforattendingameeting,pursuanttoSection31521,whetherornottheeighthmemberisinattendanceatthosemeetings.

(e)(1)Intheeventthatthissectionismadeapplicableinanycounty,bytheappointmentofanalternateeighthmember,thealternateseventhmembershallnotsitandactfortheretiredmember,exceptasdescribedinparagraph(2).

(2)Ifboththeeighthmemberandthealternateretiredmemberarenotattendingameeting,thealternateseventhmembermaysitandactfortheeighthmemberasdescribedinSection31520.1.


§31520.4. Workers’ compensation benefits; course and scope of employment; eligibilityInanycountywithaboardofretirementcomposedofninememberspursuantto

Section31520.1,ifthesecond,third,seventh,oralternateseventhmemberoftheboardisinjuredorkilledwhileperforminghisorherdutiesasamemberoftheboard,thatmembershallbedeemedtohavebeenactinginthecourseandscopeofhisorherdutiesasanemployeeofthecountyordistrictemployingthemember,forthelimitedpurposeofdeterminingeligibilityforworkers’compensationbenefitsordisabilityordeathbenefitsfromtheretirementsystem.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativeinthatcounty.


§31520.5. Counties with 9-member retirement boards; appointment of alternate retired member; term; rights and privileges(a)NotwithstandingSection31520.1,inanycountysubjecttoArticles6.8(commencing

withSection31639)and7.5(commencingwithSection31662),theboardofretirementmay,bymajorityvote,appoint,fromalistofnomineessubmittedbyarecognizedretireeorganization,analternateretiredmembertotheofficeoftheeighthmember,whoshallserveuntiltheexpirationofthecurrenttermofthecurrenteighthmember.Thereafter,thealternateretiredmembershallbeelectedseparatelybytheretiredmembersoftheassociationinthesamemannerandatthesametimeastheeighthmemberiselected.

(b)Thetermofofficeofthealternateretiredmembershallrunconcurrentlywiththetermofofficeoftheeighthmember.Thealternateretiredmembershallvoteasamemberoftheboardonlyintheeventtheeighthmemberisabsentfromaboardmeetingforanycause.Ifthereisavacancywithrespecttotheeighthmember,thealternateretiredmembershallfillthatvacancyfortheremainderoftheeighthmember’stermofoffice.

(c)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection,thealternateretiredmembershallbeentitledtothesamerightsandprivilegesandshallhavethesameresponsibilitiesandaccesstoclosedsessionsastheeighthmember.

(d)Thealternateretiredmembermayholdpositionsoncommitteesoftheboardindependentoftheeighthmemberandmayparticipateinthedeliberationsoftheboardoranyofitscommitteestowhichthealternateretiredmemberhasbeenappointedwhetherornottheeighthmemberispresent.

(e)Thealternateretiredmembershallbeentitledtothesamecompensationastheeighthmemberforattendingameeting,pursuanttoSections31521and31521.1,whetherornottheeighthmemberisinattendanceatthosemeetings.

(f)(1)Ifthissectionismadeapplicableinanycounty,bytheappointmentofanalternateeighthmember,thealternateseventhmembershallnotsitandactfortheeighthmember,

Article3,§31520.3.-§31520.5.105

exceptasdescribedinparagraph(2).(2)Ifboththeeighthmemberandthealternateretiredmemberarenotattendinga

meeting,thealternateseventhmembermaysitandactfortheeighthmemberasdescribedinSection31520.1.

(AmendedbyStats.2011,Ch.124(SB203),Sec.5)(AmendedbyStats.2012,Ch.178(SB1382),Sec.3)

§31521. Compensation of members; expensesTheboardofsupervisorsmayprovidethatthefourthandfifthmembers,andin

countieshavingaboardconsistingofninemembersorninemembersandanalternateretiredmember,thefourth,fifth,sixth,eighth,ninth,andalternateretiredmembers,andincountieshavingaboardofinvestmentsunderSection31520.2,thefifth,sixth,seventh,eighth,andninthmembersoftheboardofinvestments,shallreceivecompensationatarateofnotmorethanonehundreddollars($100)forameeting,orforameetingofacommitteeauthorizedbytheboard,fornotmorethanfivemeetingspermonth,togetherwithactualandnecessaryexpensesforallmembersoftheboard.


§31521.1. Compensation of members (Los Angeles)(a)Theboardofsupervisorsmayprovidethatincountieshavingaboardconsisting

ofninemembersandanalternateretiredmember,thefourth,fifth,sixth,eighth,ninth,andalternateretiredmembers,andincountieshavingaboardofinvestmentsunderSection31520.2,thefifth,sixth,seventh,eighth,andninthmembersoftheboardofinvestments,shallreceivecompensationatarateofnotmorethanonehundreddollars($100)forameeting,orforameetingofacommitteeauthorizedbytheboard,fornotmorethanfivemeetingspermonth,togetherwithactualandnecessaryexpensesforallmembersoftheboard.

(b)Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.

(AddedbyStats.1990,Ch.419,Sec.3,EffectiveJuly26,1990)(AmendedbyStats.2007,Ch.320(AB753),Sec.4)

§31521.3. Compensation of specified members for review and analysis of disability retirement cases (a)Theboardofsupervisorsmayprovidethatthefourth,fifth,sixth,eighth,ninth,and

alternateretiredmembersoftheboardofretirementshallreceivecompensationforthereviewandanalysisofdisabilityretirementcases.Thecompensationshallbelimitedtothefirsttimeacaseisconsideredbytheboardandshallnotexceedonehundreddollars($100)perday.Thecompensationshallbeproratedforlessthaneighthoursofworkinasingleday.

(b)Aboardmembercompensatedpursuanttosubdivision(a)shallcertifytotheretirementboard,inamannerspecifiedbytheretirementboard,thenumberofhoursspentreviewingdisabilitycaseseachmonth.Thenumberofhourscompensatedunderthissectionshallnotexceed32hourspermonth.

(c)OnorbeforeMarch31,2010,andonorbeforeMarch31ineacheven-numberedyearthereafter,thecompensationlimitestablishedbytheboardofsupervisorspursuanttosubdivision(a)shallbeadjustedbienniallybytheboardofretirementtoreflectanychangeintheConsumerPriceIndexfortheLosAngeles,Riverside,andOrangeCountyareasthathas

Article3,§31520.5.-§31521.3. 106

occurredintheprevioustwocalendaryears,roundedtothenearestdollar.(d)Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection

28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.


§31522. Duties of board members; additional compensationTheofficialdutiesofelectedboardmemberswhoareemployeesofthecountyora

districtshallbeincludedaspartoftheircountyordistrictemploymentandtheirboarddutiesshallnormallytakeprecedenceoveranyotherduties.Theelectedboardmemberswhoarecountyordistrictemployeesshallnotreceiveanyadditionalcompensationbyvirtueoftheirelectiontotheboard.

(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)(RepealedandaddedbyStats.1998,Ch.109(AB1766),Sec.2and3)

§31522.1. Appointment of staff personnel; civil service or merit system; compensationTheboardofretirementandboththeboardofretirementandboardofinvestment

mayappointsuchadministrative,technical,andclericalstaffpersonnelasarerequiredtoaccomplishthenecessaryworkoftheboards.Theappointmentsshallbemadefromeligiblelists created in accordance with the civil service or merit system rules of the county in which the retirementsystemgovernedbytheboardsissituated.Thepersonnelshallbecountyemployeesandshallbesubjecttothecountycivilserviceormeritsystemrulesandshallbeincludedinthesalaryordinanceorresolutionadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsforthecompensationofcountyofficersandemployees.


§31522.2. AdministratorInacountyinwhichtheboardofretirementorboththeboardofretirementandthe

boardofinvestmenthaveappointedpersonnelpursuanttoSection31522.1,therespectiveboardorboardsmayelecttoappointanadministratorasprovidedforinthissection.Thepositionoftheadministratorshallnotbesubjecttocountycivilserviceormeritsystemrules.Thepersonsoappointedshallbeacountyemployeeandthepositionofadministratorshallbeincludedinthesalaryordinanceorsalaryresolutionadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsforthecompensationofcountyofficersandemployees.Theadministratorsoappointedshallbedirectedby,shallserveatthepleasureof,andmaybedismissedatthewillof,theappointingboardorboards.Specificcharges,astatementofreasons,orgoodcauseshallnotberequiredasabasisfordismissaloftheadministratorbytheappointingboardorboards.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyunlesstheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.


§31522.3. Assistant administrators; chief investment officers (San Diego, Sacramento, Kern, San Joaquin, Marin)(a)Inacountyinwhichtheboardofretirementorboththeboardofretirementand

theboardofinvestmenthaveappointedpersonnelpursuanttoSection31522.1,therespectiveboardorboardsmayelecttoappointassistantadministratorsandchiefinvestmentofficersasprovidedforinthissection.Thepositionsoftheassistantadministratorsandchiefinvestmentofficersdesignatedbytheretirementboardshallnotbesubjecttocountycharter,civilservice,ormeritsystemrules.Thepersonssoappointedshallbecountyemployeesandshallbe

Article3,§31521.3.-§31522.3.107

includedinthesalaryordinanceorsalaryresolutionadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsforthecompensationofcountyofficersandemployees.Theassistantadministratorsandchiefinvestmentofficerssoappointedshallbedirectedby,shallserveatthepleasureof,andmaybedismissedatthewillof,theappointingboardorboards.Specificcharges,astatementofreasons,orgoodcauseshallnotberequiredasabasisfordismissaloftheassistantadministratorsandchiefinvestmentofficersbytheappointingboardorboards.

(b)ThissectionshallnotapplytoanypersonwhowasanassistantadministratororachiefinvestmentofficerandwasincludedinthecountycivilserviceorwassubjecttomeritsystemrulesonDecember31,1996.

(c) This section shall only apply to a county of the third class, a county of the eighth class,acountyofthe14thclass,acountyofthe15thclass,oracountyofthe18thclass,asprovidedbySections28020,28024,28029,28035,28036,and28039.

(AddedbyStats.1996,Ch.512(AB2655),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.846(AB2863),Sec.2,EffectiveSeptember30,2006)

§31522.4. Assistant administrators, persons next in line of authority to assistant administrators, chief legal officers, chief deputy legal officers, chief investment officers, and investment officers next in line of authority to chief investment officers; applicability (Los Angeles)(a)Inacountyinwhichtheboardofretirementorboththeboardofretirementandthe

boardofinvestmenthaveappointedpersonnelpursuanttoSections31522.1and31522.2,therespectiveboardorboardsmayelecttoappointassistantadministrators,personsnextinlineofauthoritytoassistantadministrators,chieflegalofficers,chiefdeputylegalofficers,chiefinvestmentofficers,andinvestmentofficersnextinlineofauthoritytochiefinvestmentofficersasprovidedforinthissection.Thesepositionsdesignatedbytheboardorboardsshallnotbesubjecttocountycharter,civilservice,ormeritsystemrules.Thepersonsappointedshallbecountyemployeesandtheirpositionsshallbeincludedinthesalaryordinanceorsalaryresolutionadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsforthecompensationofcountyofficersandemployees.Thepersonsappointedshallbedirectedby,shallserveatthepleasureof,andmaybedismissedatthewillof,theappointingboardorboards.Specificcharges,astatementofreasons,orgoodcauseshallnotberequiredasabasisfordismissalofthepersonssoappointedbytheappointingboardorboards.

(b)Thissectionshallnotapplytoanypersonwhowasanassistantadministrator,personnextinlineofauthoritytoanassistantadministrator,chieflegalofficer,chiefdeputylegalofficer,chiefinvestmentofficer,orinvestmentofficernextinlineofauthoritytoachiefinvestmentofficerandwasincludedinthecountycivilserviceorwassubjecttomeritsystemrulesonDecember31,2001,unlessthatpersonconsentstomakethissectionapplicabletohimorher.

(c)Thissectionshallonlyapplytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.


§31522.5. Additional personnel; appointment authority (Orange, San Bernardino)(a)Inacountyinwhichtheboardofretirementhasappointedpersonnelpursuant

toSection31522.1,theboardofretirementmayappointanadministrator,anassistantadministrator,achiefinvestmentofficer,seniormanagementemployeesnextinlineofauthoritytothechiefinvestmentofficer,subordinateadministrators,seniormanagementemployeesnextinlineofauthoritytosubordinateadministrators,andlegalcounsel.

(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,thepersonnelappointedpursuantto

Article3,§31522.3.-§31522.5. 108

thissectionmaynotbecountyemployeesbutshallbeemployeesoftheretirementsystem,subjecttotermsandconditionsofemploymentestablishedbytheboardofretirement.Exceptasspecificallyprovidedinthissubdivision,allotherpersonnelshallbecountyemployeesforpurposesofthecounty’semployeerelationsresolution,orequivalentlocalrules,andthetermsandconditionsofemploymentestablishedbytheboardofsupervisorsforcountyemployees,includingthosesetforthinamemorandumofunderstanding.

(c)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedbySections31529.9and31596.1,thecompensationofpersonnelappointedpursuanttothissectionshallbeanexpenseofadministrationoftheretirementsystem,pursuanttoSection31580.2.

(d)Theboardofretirementandboardofsupervisorsmayenterintoanyagreementsasmaybenecessaryandappropriatetocarryouttheprovisionsofthissection.

(e)Section31522.2isnotapplicabletoanyretirementsystemthatelectstoappointpersonnelpursuanttothissection.

(f)ThissectionshallapplyonlyinOrangeCounty.(g)Thissectionshallapplytotheretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapter

inSanBernardinoCountyatsuchtimeastheboardofretirement,byresolution,makesthissectionapplicableinthatcounty.

(AddedbyStats.2002,Ch.74(AB1992),Sec.2,EffectiveJune27,2002,asanurgencystatute)

(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.369(SB777),Sec.5)(AmendedbyStats.2008,Ch.164(AB3044),Sec.4)

§31522.6. Contract with third parties to assume temporary administration of system; catastrophic events; costsTheboardmaycontractwithathirdpartytotemporarilyassumeadministrationof

thesystemifacatastrophiceventdestroysorseverelydamagesthesystem’sadministrativefacilitiesorotherwisepreventsorsignificantlyhinderscontinuedlocaladministrationofthesystem.Localadministrationofthesystemshallresumeassoonaspracticable.

The costs of contracting with the third party for temporary administration of the system shallbeachargeagainsttheinvestmentearningsoftheretirementfund.


§31522.7. (Operative date contingent) Additional personnel; not employees of the county; appointment authority (San Bernardino)(a)InadditiontotheauthorityprovidedpursuanttoSection31522.5,theboardof

retirementintheCountyofSanBernardinomayappointanadministrator,anassistantadministrator,achiefinvestmentofficer,seniormanagementemployeesnextinlineofauthoritytothechiefinvestmentofficer,subordinateadministrators,seniormanagementemployeesnextinlineofauthoritytosubordinateadministrators,supervisorsandemployeeswithspecializedtrainingandknowledgeinpensionbenefitmemberservices,investmentreportingcompliance,investmentaccounting,pensionbenefittaxreporting,pensionbenefitfinancialaccounting,pensionlaw,andlegalcounsel.

(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,thepersonnelappointedpursuanttothissectionmaynotbecountyemployeesbutshallbeemployeesoftheretirementsystem,subjecttotermsandconditionsofemploymentestablishedbytheboardofretirement.Exceptasspecificallyprovidedinthissubdivision,allotherpersonnelshallbecountyemployeesforpurposesofthecounty’semployeerelationsresolution,orequivalentlocalrules,andthetermsandconditionsofemploymentestablishedbytheboardofsupervisorsforcountyemployees,includingthosesetforthinamemorandumofunderstanding.

Article3,§31522.5.-§31522.7.109

(c)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedbySections31529.9and31596.1,thecompensationofpersonnelappointedpursuanttothissectionshallbeanexpenseofadministrationoftheretirementsystem,pursuanttoSection31580.2.

(d)Theboardofretirementandboardofsupervisorsmayenterintoanyagreementsasmaybenecessaryandappropriatetocarryouttheprovisionsofthissection.

(e)Section31522.2isnotapplicableiftheretirementsystemelectstoappointpersonnelpursuanttothissection.

(f)ThissectionshallapplyonlytotheretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinSanBernardinoCountyatsuchtimeastheboardofretirement,byresolution,makesthissectionapplicableinthatcounty.


§31522.8. Board member education policyAboardofretirementandaboardofinvestmentssubjecttothisarticleshalladopt

apolicyforprovidingeducationtoboardmembers.Thepolicy,ataminimum,shalldothefollowing:

(a)Identifyappropriatetopicsforboardmembereducation,whichmayinclude,butisnot limited to, the following:

(1)Fiduciaryresponsibilities.(2)Ethics.(3)Pensionfundinvestmentsandinvestmentprogrammanagement.(4)Actuarialmatters.(5)Pensionfunding.(6)Benefitsadministration.(7)Disabilityevaluation.(8)Fairhearings.(9)Pensionfundgovernance.(10)Newboardmemberorientation.

(b)Establishameansfordeterminingtheprograms,training,andeducationalsessionsthatqualifyasboardmembereducation.Educationalseminarssponsoredbythestateornationalpublicpensionfundorganizationsandseminarssponsoredbyaccreditedacademicinstitutionsshallbedeemedtomeetboardmembereducationrequirements.

(c)Requirethatallboardmembersreceiveaminimumof24hoursofboardmembereducationwithinthefirsttwoyearsofassumingofficeandforeverysubsequenttwo-yearperiodtheboardmembercontinuestoholdmembershipontheboard.

(d)Requireeachboardtomaintainarecordofboardmembercompliancewiththepolicy.ThepolicyandanannualreportonboardmembercomplianceshallbeplacedontheInternetWebsiteoftheretirementsystem.


§31523. Filling vacancies in the second, third, seventh, eighth, or alternate seventh member position of the board of retirement; election(a)Intheeventofavacancyinthesecond,third,seventh,eighth,oralternateseventh

memberpositionontheboardofretirement,theboardshallcauseanelectiontofillthevacancytobeheldattheearliestpossibledate,exceptasprovidedinSections31520.3and31520.5.Thevacancyinthesecond,third,oreighthmemberpositionontheboardofretirementshallbefilledforthedurationofthecurrenttermexceptthat,iftheremainingportionofthecurrenttermissixmonthsorlessonthedateoftheelection,asingleelectionmaybeheldtofillthe

Article3,§31522.7.-§31523. 110

vacancyfortheremainderofthecurrenttermandtofillthepositionforthesucceedingterm.Withrespecttoavacancyintheseventhmemberposition,candidatesshallbeasafetymemberfromagroupwhichisnotrepresentedbyanincumbentalternateseventhmember.Withrespecttothealternateseventhmemberposition,thecandidatesshallbelimitedtothegroupunderSection31470.2or31470.4,oranyothereligiblesafetymemberinacountyifthereisnoeligiblecandidatefromthegroupsunderSections31470.2and31470.4thatisnotrepresentedbyanincumbentseventhboardmember.Thesuccessfulcandidateshallserveforthedurationofthecurrentterm.

(b)Ifthereisavacancywithrespecttothealternateretiredmember,theboardofretirementshall,bymajorityvote,appointareplacementalternatememberinthesamemannerasprescribedinSections31520.3and31520.5fortheinitialappointmentofanalternateretiredmember,whoshallserveuntiltheexpirationofthecurrenttermofthecurrenteighthmember.

(c)Ifanelectionhasbeencalledontheexpirationofthetermofofficeofanymemberoralternatemember,ortofillavacancyforthesecond,third,seventh,eighth,oralternateseventhmemberofaboardofretirement,andonlyonecandidatehasbeendulynominatedinaccordancewiththerulesestablishedfortheholdingofthatelection,theboardofsupervisorsshallorderthatnoelectionbeheldandshalldirecttheclerktocastaunanimousballotinfavorofthecandidate.

(RepealedandaddedbyStats.2011,Ch.124(SB203),Sec.6andSec.7)

§31523.1. Filling vacancies in the second, third, fourth, or eighth member position of the board of investments(a)Intheeventofavacancyinthesecond,third,fourth,oreighthmemberpositionon

aboardofinvestmentsestablishedpursuanttoSection31520.2,theboardofinvestmentsshallcauseanelectiontobeheldattheearliestpossibledatetofillthevacancy.Thevacancyinthesecond,third,fourth,oreighthmemberpositionshallbefilledforthedurationofthecurrentterm except that, if the remaining portion of the current term on the date of the election is six monthsorless,asingleelectionmaybeheldtofillthevacancyfortheremainderofthecurrenttermandtofillthepositionforthesucceedingterm.

(b)Ifanelectionhasbeencalledontheexpirationofthetermofofficeofanymember,ortofillavacancyforthesecond,third,fourth,oreighthmemberpositionofaboardofinvestments,andonlyonecandidatehasbeendulynominatedinaccordancewiththerulesestablishedfortheholdingofthatelection,theboardofsupervisorsshallorderthatnoelectionbeheldandshalldirecttheclerktocastaunanimousballotinfavorofthecandidate.


§31524. Separation from serviceSeparationfromtheserviceofthecountyofamemberoftheboardvacateshisoffice.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31525. Regulations; approvalTheboardmaymakeregulationsnotinconsistentwiththischapter.Theregulations

becomeeffectivewhenapprovedbytheboardofsupervisors.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31526. Requisites of regulationsThe regulations shall include provisions:(a)Fortheelectionofofficers,theirterms,meetings,andallothermattersrelatingtothe

Article3,§31523.-§31526.111

administrativeprocedureoftheboard.(b)Forthefilingofaswornstatementbyeverypersonwhoisorbecomesamember,

showingdateofbirth,natureanddurationofemploymentwiththecounty,compensationreceived,andsuchotherinformationasisrequiredbytheboard.

(c)Forformsofannuitycertificatesandforsuchotherformsasarerequired.(AmendedbyStats.1961,Ch.1852,Sec.3)

§31527. Permissible provisions in regulationsInitsregulations,theboardmayincludethefollowingprovisions:(a)Fromwhatwarrantsdeductionsofmembers’contributionsshallbemade.(b)Foraperiodoftimelongerthanoneyearduringwhichamembermayredepositin

theretirementfundanamountequaltoalloftheaccumulatednormalcontributionsthatheorshehaswithdrawn,plusregularinterestthereonfromthedateofreturntoservice.

(c)Foraperiodoftimelongerthanoneyearduringwhichamemberbroughtwithinthefieldofmembershipmaypayintotheretirementfundtheamountequaltothecontributionsheorshewouldhavemadeplusinterest,ifheorshehadbeenamemberfromthedateofitsorganization,orfromthedateofhisorherentranceintoservice,whicheverislater.

(d)Forawithdrawalchargeagainstamemberwhowithdrawshisorheraccumulatedcontributions.Thewithdrawalchargeshallnotexceedtheinterestcreditedtothemembersubsequenttotheeffectivedateoftheregulation.

(e)Fortheexemptionorexclusionfrommembershipasapeaceofficermemberorasasafetymemberorfrommembershipaltogether,inthediscretionoftheboard,ofpersonswhose tenure is temporary, seasonal, intermittent, or for part time only, or persons whose compensationisfixedataratebythedayorhour.

(f)Fortheperiodicphysicalexamination,atcountyexpense,ofsafetymembers.(g)Theamountofadditionaldeductionsfromthesalariesorwagesofmembers

pursuanttoArticle15.5(commencingwithSection31841)orArticle16(commencingwithSection31861).Suchaprovisionmaybeadoptedinanticipationof,andpriortoArticle15.5(commencingwithSection31841)orArticle16(commencingwithSection31861)becomingoperativeintheparticularcounty.

(h)Thedayuponwhicheachpersonbecomesamemberoftheassociationifitistobeotherthanthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthafterhisorherentranceintoservice.However,thatdayshallbenolaterthan12weeksafterhisorherentranceintoservice,orthedayuponwhichthememberterminatesservicecreditedbytheassociation,andthatthedayshallbenoearlierthan12weekspriortothemember’sterminationfromemployment.

(i)Notwithstandinganyotherlaw,fortheuseandacceptanceofadocumentrequiringasignaturethatissubmittedbyamemberusinganelectronicsignature,ifthedocumentandelectronicsignaturearesubmittedusingtechnologytheboarddeemssufficienttoensureitsintegrity,security,andauthenticity.Adocumentsubmittedpursuanttotheregulationshallbegiventhesameforceasasigned,validoriginaldocument.

(j)Fortheuseofrecordedtelephonecommunicationsfortheprocessingofauthorizedtransactionsaffectingamember’saccount,iftheboardapprovesproceduresadequatetoprotectthememberandthesystem.Theseproceduresshallincludeadequatevalidationandauthenticationofmemberidentityandpermanentretentionofrecordedcommunication.

(AmendedbyStats.1967,Ch.492,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2010,Ch.158(SB1479),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2012,Ch.59(AB2664),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.778(SB215),Sec.11)

112Article3,§31526.-§31527.

§31528. Member or employee not to have interest in investments of board; use of funds; revolving door prohibition(a)Unlesspermittedbythischapter,amemberoremployeeoftheboardshallnot

becomeanendorser,surety,orobligoron,orhaveanypersonalinterest,directorindirect,inthemakingofanyinvestmentfortheboard,orinthegainsorprofitsaccruingfromthoseinvestments.Amemberoremployeeoftheboardshallnotdirectlyorindirectly,forhimselforherself,orasanagentorpartnerofothers,borroworuseanyofthefundsordepositsoftheretirementsystem,excepttomakecurrentandnecessarypaymentsauthorizedbytheboard.

(b)Amemberoremployeeoftheboardshallnot,directlyorindirectly,byhimselforherself, or as an agent or partner or employee of others, sell or provide any investment product thatwouldbeconsideredanassetofthefund,toanyretirementsystemestablishedpursuanttothischapter.

(c)AnindividualwhoheldapositiondesignatedinSection31522.3,31522.4,or31522.5,orwasamemberoftheboardoranadministrator,shallnot,foraperiodoftwoyears after leaving that position, for compensation, act as agent or attorney for, or otherwise represent,anyotherpersonexceptthecounty,bymakinganyformalorinformalappearancebefore,oranyoralorwrittencommunicationto,theretirementsystem,oranyofficeroremployeethereof,iftheappearanceorcommunicationismadeforthepurposeofinfluencingadministrative or legislative action, or any action or proceeding involving the issuance, amendment, awarding, or revocation of a permit, license, grant, contract, or sale or purchase of goodsorproperty.

(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2007,Ch.315(AB246),Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.2009,Ch.301(AB1584),Sec.8–UrgencyStatute,EffectiveOctober

11,2009)

§31529. Attorney for boardThedistrictattorney,orthecountycounselifthereisone,istheattorneyfortheboard.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31529.1. Legal representation; cost (Los Angeles)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthispart,theboardofretirementortheboardof

investmentmayelecttosecurelegalrepresentation,onsuchmattersastheboardofretirementortheboardofinvestmentmayspecify,fromotherthanthecountycounsel.Thecostofthelegalrepresentationshallnotexceedone-hundredthof1percentofsystemassetsinanybudgetyear.

Thissectionappliesonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.

(AddedbyStats.1992,Ch.1047,Sec.2,EffectiveJanuary1,1993)

§31529.5. Legal services of attorney in private practice; compensation; resolutionNotwithstandingSection31529,theboardmaycontractforthelegalservicesofan

attorneyinprivatepracticewhentheboarddetermines,afterconsultationwiththecountycounsel,thatthecountycounselcannotprovidetheboardwithlegalservicesduetoaconflictofinterestorothercompellingreason.ThecompensationofsuchattorneyshallbepaidfromtheportionofreservescreatedbySection31592whichexceedonepercentofthetotalassetsofthefund,orintheabsenceofsuchexcessreserves,fromthecountygeneralfund.Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,

Article3,§31528.-§31529.5.113

byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31529.6. Legal services of attorney in private practice; compensation (Los Angeles)InadditiontothepowersgrantedbySections31529,31529.5,and31614,theboardof

retirementandtheboardofinvestmentmaycontractwithattorneysinprivatepracticeforlegalservicesandadvice.Theboardsshallpayreasonablecompensationforthelegalservicesandadvice.Thecompensationshallbeconsideredacostofadministrationofthesystem.



§31529.9. Legal services (Orange, Kern, San Joaquin, Santa Barbara, San Bernardino)(a)InadditiontothepowersgrantedbySections31522.5,31529,31529.5,31614,and

31732,theboardofretirementandtheboardofinvestmentmaycontractwiththecountycounselorwithattorneysinprivatepracticeoremploystaffattorneysforlegalservices.

(b)NotwithstandingSections31522.5,31522.7,31529.5,and31580,theboardshallpay,fromsystemassets,reasonablecompensationforthelegalservices.

(c)Thissectionappliestoanycountyofthe2ndclass,7thclass,14thclass,15thclass,orthe16thclassasdescribedbySections28020,28023,28028,28035,28036,and28037.

(d)Thissectionshallalsoapplytoanyothercountyiftheboardofretirement,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(AddedbyStats.1996,Ch.272(AB2633),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2002,Ch.116(SB1752),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.2008,Ch.164(AB3044),Sec.5)(AmendedbyStats.2009,Ch.393(AB1406),Sec.2)

§31530. County health officerThecountyhealthofficershalladvisetheboardonmedicalmattersand,ifrequestedby

theboard,shallattenditsmeetings.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31531. Estimate of member’s service or ageIfitisimpracticablefortheboardtodeterminefromtherecordsthelengthofservice

ortheageofanymember,orifthememberrefusesorfailstogivetheboardastatementofhisserviceorage,itmayestimatehislengthofserviceorageforthepurposesofthischapter.


§31532. Confidential statements and recordsSwornstatementsandindividualrecordsofmembersshallbeconfidentialandshallnot

bedisclosedtoanyoneexceptinsofarasmaybenecessaryfortheadministrationofthischapteroruponorderofacourtofcompetentjurisdiction,oruponwrittenauthorizationbythemember.


§31533. Referee; appointment; hearing; findings and recommendationsWhenever,inordertomakeadetermination,itisnecessarytoholdahearingtheboard

mayappointeitheroneofitsmembersoramemberoftheStateBarofCaliforniatoserveasa

Article3,§31529.5.-§31533. 114

referee.Therefereeshallholdsuchahearingandshalltransmit,inwriting,totheboardhisproposedfindingsoffactandrecommendeddecision.


§31534. Service of findings and recommendations; objections; proceedings on referee’s reportTheproposedfindingsoffactandrecommendationsoftherefereeshallbeservedonthe

partieswhoshallhave10daystosubmitwrittenobjectionstheretowhichshallbeincorporatedintherecordtobeconsideredbytheboard.

Uponreceivingtheproposedfindingsoffactandtherecommendationsofthereferee,theboardmay:

(a)Approveandadopttheproposedfindingsandtherecommendationsofthereferee,or

(b)Requireatranscriptorsummaryofallthetestimony,plusallotherevidencereceivedbythereferee.Uponthereceiptthereoftheboardshalltakesuchactionasinitsopinionisindicatedbysuchevidence,or

(c)Referthematterbackwithorwithoutinstructionstotherefereeforfurtherproceedings, or

(d)Setthematterforhearingbeforeitself.Atsuchhearingtheboardshallhearanddecidethematterasifithadnotbeenreferredtothereferee.


§31535. Issuance of subpoenas; taking of depositionsTheboardmayissuesubpoenasandsubpoenasducestecum,andcompensatepersons

subpoenaed.ThispowershallbeexercisedandenforcedinthesamemannerasthesimilarpowergrantedtheboardofsupervisorsinArticle9(commencingwithSection25170)ofChapter1,Part2,Division2;exceptthatthepowershallextendonlytomatterswithintheretirementboard’sjurisdiction,andcommitteesoftheboardshallnothavethispower.Reasonablefeesandexpensesmaybeprovidedforbyboardregulationforanyorallofsuchwitnessesregardlessofwhichpartysubpoenaedthem.

Subpoenasshallbesignedbythechairmanorsecretaryoftheretirementboard,exceptthattheboardmaybyregulationprovideforexpresswrittendelegationofitssubpoenapowerto any referee it appoints pursuant to this chapter or to any administrator appointed pursuant toSection31522.2.

Anymemberoftheboard,thereferee,oranypersonotherwiseempoweredtoissuesubpoenasmayadministeroathsto,ortakedepositionsfrom,witnessesbeforetheboardorreferee.


§31535.1. Subpoenas; compensation of witnesses (Los Angeles)Theboardmayissuesubpoenasandsubpoenasducestecum,andcompensatepersons

subpoenaed.ThispowershallbeexercisedandenforcedinthesamemannerasthesimilarpowergrantedtheboardofsupervisorsinArticle9(commencingwithSection25170)ofChapter1ofPart2ofDivision2ofthistitle;exceptthatthepowershallextendonlytomatterswithintheboard’sjurisdiction,andcommitteesoftheboardshallnothavethispower.Reasonablefeesandexpensesmaybeprovidedforbyboardregulationforanyorallofthewitnessesregardlessofwhichpartysubpoenaedthem.

Subpoenasshallbesignedbythechairmanorsecretaryoftheboard,exceptthattheboardmaybyregulationprovideforexpresswrittendelegationofitssubpoenapowertotheretirementadministratorortoanyrefereeitappointspursuanttothischapter.

Article3,§31533.-§31535.1.115

Anymemberoftheboard,thereferee,oranypersonotherwiseempoweredtoissuesubpoenasmayadministeroathsto,ortakedepositionsfrom,witnessesbeforetheboardorreferee.

Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961


§31536. Denial of benefit or allowance; appeal; attorney feesIfasuperiorcourtreversesthedenialbytheboardofanapplicationforaretirement

allowance,orforasurvivor’sallowancebasedonsuchallowance,orforaclaimbasedonaclaimedpensionrightorbenefit,thesuperiorcourtinitsdiscretionmayawardreasonableattorney’sfeesascoststothememberorbeneficiaryofthememberwhosuccessfullyappealedthedenialofsuchapplication.Suchcostsshallbeassessedagainsttheboard,shallbeconsideredacostofadministration,andshallinnoeventbecomeapersonalliabilityofanymemberoftheboard.


§31537. Records management proceduresTheboardmayestablishefficientrecordsmanagementprocedures,whichmayinclude,

butneednotbelimitedto,maintenanceand,whendeterminedbytheboardtobenecessary,disposalofrecordsinitsjurisdiction.

(AddedbyStats.1993,Ch.24,Sec.1)(AmendedandRenumberedasSection31592.5byStats.2004,Ch.441,Sec.2)

§31538. Adjustments on payment of benefits(a)Theboardshalladjustthepaymentofbenefitspayablepursuanttothispart,as

necessary,inordertomaximizethebenefitsavailabletomemberswhoaresubjecttothelimitsofSection415oftheInternalRevenueCode.Thoseadjustmentsshallinclude,butarenotlimitedto,cost-of-livingadjustments,cost-of-livingbanks,temporaryannuities,survivorcontinuancebenefits,oranycombinationsthereof.

(b)Theamountpayabletoamemberinanylimitationyear,includingcost-of-livingadjustments,shallnotexceedthelimitestablishedunderSection415(b)oftheInternalRevenueCodeattheannuitystartingdate,andasmaybeincreasedinsubsequentyearspursuanttoSection415(d)oftheInternalRevenueCodeandapplicableregulations.

(c)Thecost-of-livingadjustmentsmadepursuanttoSection415(d)oftheInternalRevenueCodetothelimitestablishedunderSection415(b)oftheInternalRevenueCodecontinuetoapplyafteramember’sseverancefromemploymentorannuitystartingdate.


§31539. Correction of error; Prospective and retroactive adjustments; Rights and remedies; Period of limitation(a)Theboardofretirementmay,initsdiscretion,correctanyerrormadeinthe

calculationofaretiredmember’smonthlyallowanceoranyotherbenefitsunderthischapter,ifeither of the following exist:

(1)Theerrorinthecalculationofthemember’smonthlyallowanceorotherbenefitsunder this chapter was made as a result of fraudulent reports for compensation made, or causedtobemade,bythememberforhisorherownbenefit.

Article3,§31535.1.-§31539. 116

(2)Themembercausedhisorherfinalcompensationtobeimproperlyincreasedorotherwise overstated at the time of retirement and the system applied that overstated amount asthebasisforcalculatingthemember’smonthlyretirementallowanceorotherbenefitsunderthischapter.

(b)Theretirementallowanceorotherbenefitsunderthischapterwithrespecttoaretiredmemberdescribedinsubdivision(a)shallbeadjustedprospectivelytotheamountthatwouldhavebeenpayableiftheoverstatementofthemember’sfinalcompensationhadnotoccurred.

(c)Adjustmentofthemember’sretirementallowanceorotherbenefitsmayalsobeimplementedretroactivelyandincludethecollectionorreturnoftheoverpaymentofbenefits.Theboardofretirementmaydirectstafftocorrecttheoverpaymentofbenefitsbyoffsettingtheamounttoberecoveredagainstfuturebenefits.Adjustmentstocorrecttheoverpaymentofbenefitsmayalsobemadebyadjustingtheallowancesothattheretiredmemberortheretiredmemberandhisorherbeneficiary,asthecasemaybe,willreceivetheactuarialequivalentoftheallowancetowhichthememberisentitled.

(d) The rights and remedies provided in this section are in addition to any other rights andremediesanypartymayhaveatlaworinequity.Nothinginthissectionshallprecludeanyparty from instituting an action for declaratory or other relief in lieu of proceeding under this section.

(e)Theperiodoflimitationofactionsunderthissectionshallbe10yearsandthatperiodshallcommenceeitherfromthedateofpaymentorupondiscoveryofthefactsdescribedinsubdivision(a),whicheverdateislater.Theboardshalldeterminetheapplicabilityoftheperiod of limitation in any case, and its determination with respect to the running of any period oflimitationshallbeconclusiveandbindingforpurposesofcorrectingtheerror.


§31540. Obligations of retirement system to members, of county or district to retirement system, of members to retirement system; payments for adjustment of errors or omissions (Los Angeles)(a)Theobligationsoftheretirementsystemtoitsmemberscontinuethroughouttheir

respectivememberships,andtheobligationsoftheretirementsystemto,andinrespectto,retiredmemberscontinuethroughoutthelivesoftheretiredmembers,andthereafteruntilallobligationstothemembers’beneficiariesunderoptionalsettlementshavebeendischarged.Theobligationsofthecountyordistricttotheretirementsystemwithrespecttomembersemployedbythem,respectively,continuethroughoutthemembershipsofthemembers,andtheobligationsofthecountyordistricttotheretirementsystemwithrespecttoretiredmembersformerlyemployedbythem,respectively,continueuntilalloftheobligationsoftheretirementsystemtothoseretiredmembershavebeendischarged.Theobligationsofanymembertotheretirementsystemcontinuethroughouthisorhermembership,andthereafteruntilalloftheobligationsoftheretirementsystemtothatmemberhavebeendischarged.

(b)Forthepurposesofpaymentsintooroutoftheretirementfundforadjustmentoferrorsoromissions,theperiodoflimitationofactionsshallbethreeyears,andshallbeappliedas follows:

(1)Incasesinwhichtheretirementsystemmakesanerroneouspaymenttoamemberorbeneficiary,thesystem’srighttocollectshallexpirethreeyearsfromthedateofpayment.

(2)Incasesinwhichtheretirementsystemowesmoneytoamemberorbeneficiary,theperiodoflimitationshallnotapply.

(c)Notwithstandingsubdivision(b),incasesinwhichpaymentiserroneousbecauseofthedeathoftheretiredmemberorbeneficiaryorbecauseoftheremarriageofthebeneficiary,

Article3,§31539.-§31540.117

theperiodoflimitationshallbe10yearsandthatperiodshallcommencewiththediscoveryoftheerroneouspayment.

(d)Notwithstandingsubdivision(b),ifanypaymenthasbeenmadeasaresultoffraudulentreportsforcompensationmade,orcausedtobemade,byamemberforhisorherownbenefit,theperiodoflimitationshallbe10yearsandthatperiodshallcommenceeitherfrom the date of payment or upon discovery of the fraudulent reporting, whichever date is later.

(e)Theboardshalldeterminetheapplicabilityoftheperiodoflimitationinanycase,anditsdeterminationwithrespecttotherunningofanyperiodoflimitationshallbeconclusiveandbindingforpurposesofcorrectingtheerrororomission.

(f)ThissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyofthefirstclassasdescribedinSection28020.

(AddedbyStats.2012,Ch.59(AB2664),Sec.2)(ApplicabletoLosAngelesCountyonly)

§31541. Corrections of errors or omissions (Los Angeles)(a)Subjecttosubdivisions(c)and(d),theboardmay,initsdiscretionanduponany

termsitdeemsjust,correcttheerrorsoromissionsofanyactiveorretiredmember,oranybeneficiaryofanactiveorretiredmember,ifallofthefollowingfactsexist:

(1)Therequest,claim,ordemandtocorrecttheerrororomissionismadebythepartyseekingcorrectionwithinareasonabletimeafterdiscoveryoftherighttomakethecorrection,whichinnocaseshallexceedsixmonthsafterdiscoveryofthisright.

(2)Theerrororomissionwastheresultofmistake,inadvertence,surprise,orexcusableneglect,aseachofthosetermsisusedinSection473oftheCodeofCivilProcedure.

(3)Thecorrectionwillnotprovidethepartyseekingcorrectionwithastatus,right,orobligationnototherwiseavailableunderthispart.Failurebyamemberorbeneficiarytomaketheinquirythatwouldbemadebyareasonablepersoninlikeorsimilarcircumstancesdoesnotconstitutean“errororomission”correctableunderthissection.

(b)Subjecttosubdivisions(c)and(d),theboardshallcorrectallactionstakenasaresultoferrorsoromissionsofthecountyordistrict,orthissystem.

(c)Thedutyandpoweroftheboardtocorrectmistakes,asprovidedinthissection,shallterminateupontheexpirationofobligationsofthissystemtothepartyseekingcorrectionoftheerrororomission,asthoseobligationsaredefinedbySection31540.

(d)Thepartyseekingcorrectionofanerrororomissionpursuanttothissectionhastheburdenofpresentingdocumentationorotherevidencetotheboardestablishingtherighttocorrectionpursuanttosubdivisions(a)and(b).

(e)Correctionsoferrorsoromissionspursuanttothissectionshallbesuchthatthestatus,rights,andobligationsofallpartiesdescribedinsubdivisions(a)and(b)areadjustedtobethesameastheywouldhavebeeniftheactthatwouldhavebeentaken,butfortheerrororomission,wastakenatthepropertime.However,notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthissection,correctionsmadepursuanttothissectionshalladjustthestatus,rights,andobligationsofallpartiesdescribedinsubdivisions(a)and(b)asofthetimethatthecorrectionactuallytakesplaceiftheboardfindsanyofthefollowing:

(1)Thatthecorrectioncannotbeperformedinaretroactivemanner.(2)That,evenifthecorrectioncanbeperformedinaretroactivemanner,thestatus,

rights,andobligationsofallofthepartiesdescribedinsubdivisions(a)and(b)cannotbeadjustedtobethesame,astheywouldhavebeeniftheerrororomissionhadnotoccurred.

(3)Thatthepurposesofthischapterwillnotbeeffectuatedifthecorrectionisperformedinaretroactivemanner.

Article3,§31540.-§31541. 118

(f)ThissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyofthefirstclassasdescribedinSection28020.

(AddedbyStats.2012,Ch.59(AB2664),Sec.3)(ApplicabletoLosAngelesCountyonly)

§31542. Compensation paid to enhance member's retirement benefit; procedure for assessment(a)Theboardshallestablishaprocedureforassessinganddeterminingwhetheran

elementofcompensationwaspaidtoenhanceamember’sretirementbenefit.Iftheboarddeterminesthatcompensationwaspaidtoenhanceamember’sbenefit,thememberortheemployermaypresentevidencethatthecompensationwasnotpaidforthatpurpose.Uponreceiptofsufficientevidencetothecontrary,aboardmayreverseitsdeterminationthatcompensationwaspaidtoenhanceamember’sretirementbenefits.

(b)Uponafinaldeterminationbytheboardthatcompensationwaspaidtoenhanceamember’sretirementbenefit,theboardshallprovidenoticeofthatdeterminationtothememberandemployer.Thememberoremployermayobtainjudicialreviewoftheboard’sactionbyfilingapetitionforwritofmandatewithin30daysofthemailingofthatnotice.

(c)Compensationthatamemberwasentitledtoreceivepursuanttoacollectivebargainingagreementthatwassubsequentlydeferredorotherwisemodifiedasaresultofanegotiatedamendmentofthatagreementshallbeconsideredcompensationearnableandshallnotbedeemedtohavebeenpaidtoenhanceamember’sretirementbenefit.


§31542.5. Pay period for compensation reported to board; failure of county or district to report compensation(a)Whenacountyordistrictreportscompensationtotheboard,itshallidentifythe

pay period in which the compensation was earned regardless of when it was reported or paid.CompensationshallbereportedinaccordancewithSection31461andshallnotexceedcompensationearnable,asdefinedinSection31461.

(b)Theboardmayassessacountyordistrictareasonableamounttocoverthecostofaudit,adjustment,orcorrection,ifitdeterminesthatacountyordistrictknowinglyfailedtocomplywithsubdivision(a).Acountyordistrictshallbefoundtohaveknowinglyfailedtocomplywithsubdivision(a)iftheboarddeterminesthateitherofthefollowingapplies:

(1)Thecountyordistrictkneworshouldhaveknownthatthecompensationreportedwasnotcompensationearnable,asdefinedinSection31461.

(2)Thecountyordistrictfailedtoidentifythepayperiodinwhichcompensationearnablewasearned,asrequiredbythissection.

(c)Acountyordistrictshallnotpassontoanemployeeanycostsassessedpursuanttosubdivision(b).


§31543. Audit of county or district by boardTheboardmayauditacountyordistricttodeterminethecorrectnessofretirement

benefits,reportablecompensation,andenrollmentin,andreinstatementto,thesystem.Duringanaudit,theboardmayrequireacountyordistricttoprovideinformation,ormakeavailableforexaminationorcopyingataspecifiedtimeandplace,books,papers,data,orrecords,including,butnotlimitedto,personnelandpayrollrecords,asdeemednecessarybytheboard.


Article3,§31541.-§31543.119

Article 4Membership


§31550. Retirement associationWheneverthischapterbecomesoperativeinanycountyaretirementassociationshall

beorganized.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424)

§31551. Eligibility to membership; exclusionThepersonsexpresslydeclaredtobeineligibletomembershipbythisarticleshallnot

becomemembersoftheretirementassociation,and,exceptasexpresslyexcluded,thepersonsenumeratedinthisarticleortheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013shallbecomemembersoftheassociation.

Personsemployedasparticipantsinaprogramof,andwhosewagesarepaidinwholeorinpartbyfederalfundsinaccordancewith,theComprehensiveEmploymentandTrainingActof1973(PublicLaw93-203),asamended,areexcludedfrommembership.ThisexclusionshallnotapplytoactivefiresuppressionpersonnelwhoaresafetymemberspursuanttoSections31469.3and31470.4.

(AmendedbyStats.1979,Ch.115,Sec.1,EffectiveJune15,1979)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.15)

§31552. Automatic membership; waiver of membershipAllexistingofficersandemployeesofthecountybecomemembersoftheassociation

onthedaytheretirementsystembecomesoperative,andthereaftereachpersonenteringthecountyemploybecomesamemberonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthafterhisentranceintotheservice,unlessotherwiseprovidedbyregulationsadoptedbytheboard.Suchregulationsmayprovideforwaiverofmembershipbytheprospectiveemployeeinthecaseofnewlyhiredemployeeswhohaveattainedtheageof60.Inallcaseswherethereissuchawaiver,saidemployeeuponattainingtheageof70shallthereafterbeemployedfromyeartoyearatthediscretionofthecounty.


§31552.1. Membership of existing officers and employees not members because of statuteOnthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthafterthissectiontakeseffectallexistingofficers

andemployeesofthecounty,who,becauseoftheprovisionsofSection31552priortoitsamendmentin1953,werenotmembers,becomemembersonthatday.


§31552.2. Officers and employees who became members on first day of calendar month following expiration of 180 days after entry into service; prior service credit; contributionsAllexistingofficersandemployeesofthecounty,nowmembersoftheretirement

system,andwhobecameemployedbythecountyduringthatinterimperiodwhenthelawdidnotallowmembershipintotheretirementsystemuntilthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowingtheexpirationofthe180daysafterhisentranceintoservice,shallbeallowedtomakecontributionsandreceivecreditforthatperiodoftimeaspriorcountyservice.ThecontributionrateshallbeasprescribedinSection31641.5andelectiontoreceivecreditforsuchserviceshallbeavailableuntiltimeoffilingofnoticeofretirementfromcountyservice.


Article4,§31550.-§31552.2. 120

§31552.4. Employees and officers described in Health and Safety Code §101851; eligibility for retirement benefits (Alameda)EmployeesandofficersdescribedinSection101851oftheHealthandSafetyCodeshall

notautomaticallybecomemembersoftheretirementsystemofthehealthauthorityestablishedpursuanttothischapter,andtheireligibilityforretirementbenefitsshallbeestablishedpursuanttotheprovisionsofthatsection.

(AddedbyStats.2013,Ch.311(AB1008),Sec.2,EffectiveSeptember13,2013,asanurgency statute)

§31553. Elective officers; filing declaration to become member; withdrawalElectiveofficersbecomemembersoftheretirementassociationonthefirstdayofthe

calendarmonthfollowingthefilingofadeclarationwiththeboardtobecomeamember,provided,however,thatanysuchelectiveofficermay,within60daysaftertheexpirationoftheofficer’stermofofficeorwithin60daysaftertheofficerceasestoholdtheoffice,rescindthedeclarationandwithdrawfromtheretirementassociation.Insuchcases,allcontributionspaidbythemembershallberefundedinthesamemannerasapplicabletomembersterminatingservice.


§31554. Officers and attachés of superior court; persons includedAllofficersandattachésofthesuperiorcourtestablishedwithinthecounty,except

judgesandparticipantsinanyotherpensionsystem,becomemembersoftheassociationonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsadoptsbyfour-fifthsvotearesolutionprovidingfortheirinclusion.Thereaftereachpersonenteringsuchemploybecomesamemberonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisentranceintotheserviceofthecourt.

Inthissection“officerorattachéofthesuperiorcourt”includesallcommissioners,phonographicreporterswhoarepaidsalariesorperdiemsbythecountyandwhosecontributionsarebaseduponsuchsalariesorperdiems,secretaries,stenographers,investigators,messengers,orotheremployeesofthecourt.


§31556. Appropriations and deductions for court officers and attachésTheboardofsupervisorsandallothercountyofficersshallmaketheappropriationsand

performthedutiesspecifiedinthischapterwithreferencetocourtofficersandattachésinthesamemannerasspecifiedforcountyordistrictofficersoremployees.Thedeductionsprovidedforinthischaptershallbemadefromthesalariesofsuchofficersorattachésinthesamemannerasforofficersoremployeesofthecountyordistricts.


§31557. Officers and employees of districts; inclusion in membershipAllofficersandemployeesofanydistrictbecomemembersoftheassociationonthefirst

day of the calendar month after:(a)Inthecaseofdistrictsforwhichtheboardofsupervisorsisthegoverningbody,such

bodyadoptsbyfour-fifthsvotearesolutionprovidingfortheinclusionofthedistrictintheretirementassociation.

(b)Inthecaseofdistrictsforwhichtheboardofsupervisorsisnotthegoverningbody,thegoverningbodyadoptsbyatwo-thirdsvote,aresolutionprovidingfortheinclusionofthedistrictintheretirementassociationandtheboard,bymajorityvote,consentsthereto.Thereafter,eachpersonenteringsuchemploymentbecomesamemberonthefirstdayofthe

Article4,§31552.4.-§31557.121

calendarmonthfollowinghisentranceintotheservice.However,ifpriortoJanuary1,1976,thegoverningbodyandtheboardofretirementhaveexecutedanagreementprovidingforthepurchaseofpriorservice,theagreementmaybeamendedtoprovidethatthedateofmembershipintheretirementassociationforanyofficeroremployeeshallbethefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowingtheofficer’soremployee’sentranceintodistrictservice.

MembersmaybewithdrawnfromtheassociationinthemannerprovidedinSection31564.

(AmendedbyStats.1980,Ch.430,Sec.1,EffectiveJuly11,1980)

§31557.1. Officers and employees of Regents of the University of California; previous employees of county hospital; membershipOfficersandemployeesofadistrictasdefinedinsubdivision(g)ofSection31468,

becomemembersonthedatespecifiedintheagreementbetweentheregentsandtheboardofsupervisors relating to the transfer to the regents of the hospital in which they are employed oroftheobligationtoprovideprofessionalmedicalservicesatthehospitalinwhichtheyareemployed.NotwithstandingSection31564,iftheagreementsoprovides,thoseemployeesshallceasetobemembersonthedateofareferendumrelatingtocoverageofthosemembersundertheFederalOldAge,Survivors,Disability,andHealthInsurancePrograminwhichlessthanamajorityofthoseeligibleemployeesvotedinfavorofthatcoverage.


§31557.2. Validation of action taken by governing body under section 31577; validation of membershipAnyactionheretoforetakenbythegoverningbodyofadistrictunderSection31557,

orundercolorofthatsection,isherebyconfirmedandvalidatedandmadefullyeffective.Membershipintheassociationofanyofficersandemployeesofanydistrictwhowereincludedintheassociationbysuchactionofthegoverningbody,isherebyvalidatedandconfirmedandmadefullyeffectiveasofthetimeofsuchinclusion.


§31557.3. Membership; inclusion of personnel previously in county service (Orange, San Bernardino)Onthedateadistrict,asdefinedinsubdivision(l)ofSection31468,isincludedinthe

retirementsystem,anypersonnelappointedpursuanttoSection31522.5whohadpreviouslybeenincountyserviceshallcontinuetobemembersofthesystemwithoutinterruptioninserviceorlossofcredit.Thereafter,eachpersonenteringemploymentwiththedistrictshallbecomeamemberofthesystemonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisorherentranceintoservice.


§31558. Time of becoming safety members; eligibilityAllexistingmembersofapensionsystemestablishedpursuanttoeitherChapter4

(commencingwithSection31990)orChapter5(commencingwithSection32200)ofthispartandallemployeeseligibleassafetymemberswhoatthetimeofenteringserviceelectedtobecomesafetymembers,orwhosubsequentlybecamemembers,shallbecomesafetymembersand thereafter each person employed in a position, the principal duties of which consist of activelawenforcementoractivefiresuppressionorjuvenilehallgroupcounselingandgroupsupervision,asdefinedinSections31469.3,31469.4,31470.2and31470.4,shallbecomeasafety

Article4,§31557.-§31558. 122

memberonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisorherentranceintotheservice.Thesheriffandundersheriffshallbecomesafetymembersonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowingtheirentranceintotheservice.Themarshalandassistantmarshallshallbecomesafetymembersonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowingtheirappointment.


§31558.1. Time of becoming safety member; law enforcement or fire suppression personnel; contributions; credit for serviceNotwithstandinganyoftheprovisionsofSection31558tothecontrary,eachperson

who,priortoJuly1,1969,wasemployedinaposition,theprincipaldutiesofwhichconsistofactivelawenforcementasdefinedinSection31469.3oractivefiresuppressionasdefinedinSection31470.4,whohascontinuouslysincehisorheremploymentmadethesalarycontributionsrequiredofasafetymember,andwhohascontinuouslysincehisorheremploymentbeenemployedinapositionwhichwouldmakesuchpersoneligibletobecomeasafetymemberifheorshehadnotbeenovertheageof35yearsatthetimeofhisorheremployment,shallbecomeasafetymemberasofthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisorheroriginalentranceintotheservice.

Amemberwhomeetstherequirementsoftheprecedingparagraph,exceptthatheorshehasnotmadethecontributionsrequiredofasafetymember,mayreceivecreditforsuchservices,asasafetymember,whenheorshehascontributed,withinteresttothedatepaid,thedifferencebetweencontributionsmadeandthosewhichwouldhavebeenrequiredifheorshehadbeenasafetymember.Suchadditionalcontributionsaretobemadepriortoretirementandnoticeofelectiontoreceivecreditforservice,asasafetymember,pursuanttothissection,shallbemadetotheretirementboardpriortoApril1,1975.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byordinance,maketheprovisionsofthesectionapplicableinthatcounty.


§31558.2. Persons employed in active law enforcement; election to become safety member; credit for service; contributionsNotwithstandinganyoftheprovisionsofSection31558tothecontrary,eachperson

who, prior to the effective date of this section was employed in positions the principal duties ofwhichconsistofactivelawenforcementfornotlessthan10yearsandwhoisemployedbyacountyinapositionwhichwouldmakesuchpersoneligibletobecomeasafetymemberatthetimeofhisorheremployment,may,ifheorshesoelects,becomeasafetymemberasofthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisorherentranceintocountyservice.

Amembermayreceivecreditforsuchservice,asasafetymember,whenheorshehascontributed,withnearesttothedatepaid,thedifferencebetweencontributionsmadeandthosewhichwouldhavebeenmadebythememberifheorshehadbeenasafetymember.Suchadditionalcontributionsshallbemadepriortoretirement.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinthatcounty.


§31558.5. Time of becoming safety members; permanent employees engaged in active law enforcement (various)Allmembersemployedbyacountyhavingapopulationinexcessof2,000,000whoare

employedonandpriortoJanuary1,1958,whosedutiesaredescribedinSection31470.6and

Article4,§31558.-§31558.5.123

whopriortothatdatefilewiththeboardawrittenelectiontobecomesafetymembers,shallbecomesafetymembersonJanuary1,1958.

Allmembersemployedbyacountyhavingapopulationof2,000,000orlessandinexcessof500,000,whoareemployedonandpriortoJanuary1,1960,whosedutiesaredescribedinSection31470.6andwhopriortothatdatefilewiththeboardawrittenelectiontobecomesafetymembers,shallbecomesafetymembersonJanuary1,1960.

AfterJanuary1,1958,eachpersonnotover35yearsofagewhenemployedbyacountyhavingapopulationinexcessof2,000,000inapositiontheprincipaldutiesofwhicharedescribedinSection31470.6,shallbecomeasafetymemberonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisentranceintotheservice.

AfterJanuary1,1960,eachpersonnotover35yearsofagewhenemployedbyacountyhavingapopulationof2,000,000orlessandinexcessof500,000inapositiontheprincipaldutiesofwhicharedescribedinSection31470.6,shallbecomeasafetymemberonthefirstdayof the calendar month following his entrance into the service


§31558.6. Time of becoming safety members; juvenile hall group counselors and group supervisorsNotwithstandinganyoftheprovisionsofSection31558tothecontrary,eachperson

whoisemployedinaposition,theprincipaldutiesofwhichconsistofjuvenilehallgroupcounselingandgroupsupervisionasdefinedinSection31469.4,onthedatetheprovisionsofSection31469.4aremadeapplicableinacountybytheboardofsupervisorsandwhofileswiththeboardwrittenelectiontobecomeasafetymemberonorpriortooneyearafterthedatetheprovisionsofSection31469.4aremadeapplicableinacountybytheboardofsupervisors,shallbecomeasafetymember.

Thereaftereachpersonwhenemployedinsuchpositions,shallbecomeasafetymemberonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisorherentranceintotheservice.


§31558.8. Counties of the third class; eligibility of certain detectives or investigators in district attorney’s office to become safety members; contributions; operation of section (San Diego)NotwithstandinganyoftheprovisionsofSection31558tothecontrary,apersonover

35yearsofagewhoisemployedbyacountyofthethirdclass,asestablishedbySections28020and28024,asamendedin1971,asadetectiveorinvestigatorintheofficeofthedistrictattorney,whichwouldmakethepersoneligibletobecomeasafetymemberifheorshehadnotbeenovertheageof35yearsatthetimeofhisorheremployment,may,ifheorshesoelects,becomeasafetymemberasofthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisorherentranceintocountyserviceregardlessofage.

Amembermayreceivecreditforthatservice,asasafetymember,whenheorshehascontributed,withinteresttothedatepaid,thedifferencebetweencontributionsmadeandthosewhichwouldhavebeenmadebythememberifheorshehadbeenasafetymember.Theadditionalcontributionsshallbemadepriortoretirement.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makethissectionapplicableinthecounty.


Article4,§31558.5.-§31558.8. 124

§31559. County or district assuming functions of public agency; effect on employeesWheneveracountyordistrictsubjecttotheprovisionsofthischaptertakesoverand

assumesanyofthefunctionsofanyotherpublicagency,andbecauseofsuchassumptionalloranyemployeesofsuchotherpublicagencybecomeemployeesofsuchcountyordistrict,anysuchemployeewhoseprincipaldutiesconsistofactivelawenforcementoractivefiresuppression,asdefinedinSections31469.3,31470.2and31470.4,who,becauseofsuchtransferoffunctions,isemployedinsuchapositioninsuchcountyordistrict,shallbecomeasafetymemberonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisentranceintoservice.

(AmendedbyStats.1957,Ch.2399,Sec.10,EffectiveOctober1,1957)

§31560. Persons remaining safety membersAsafetymembershallremainasafetymemberonlywhiletheprincipaldutiesofhis

positionconsistofactivelawenforcement,activefiresuppressionoractivelifeguardserviceasdefinedinSection31469.3.Whileholdinganyotherpositionincountyserviceheshallremainamemberbutnotasafetymember.


§31561. Temporary technical or professional employees ineligibleAnypersonemployedundercontractfortemporaryservicesrequiringprofessionalor

highlytechnicalskillisineligibleformembership.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31562. Elective officer not declaring intention to become memberAnyelectiveofficerwhodoesnotdeclarehisintentiontobecomeamemberofthe

retirementassociationasrequiredbythischapterisineligibletomembership.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31563. Termination of membership upon conviction of certain feloniesNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,apersonceasestobeamemberforany

portionofhisorherserviceasanelectedpublicofficerthatisforfeitedpursuanttoSection1243.


§31564. Withdrawal of district employees; petition; fund disposition; effective dateAllofficersandemployeesofanydistrictwhohavebecomemembersoftheassociation

asprovidedinSection31557,maybewithdrawnbyaresolutionofthegoverningbodydeclaringallofthedistrict’semployeeswithdrawnfromtheassociation;provided,thegoverningbodyhasfirstreceivedawrittenpetitionsignedbyamajorityofitsofficersandemployeesrequestingthatthedistrict’sofficersandemployeesbewithdrawnfromtheassociation.

Upontheadoptionofanyresolutiontowithdrawitsmembers,allaccumulatedcontributionsheldintheassociationshallberefundedtothedistrict’semployeesupontheeffectivedateoftheirwithdrawalsandinthesamemannerastheaccumulatedcontributionswouldberefundedupontheterminationoftheiremploymentbythedistrict.

Upontheadoptionofanyresolutiontowithdrawitsmembersandwheretherearenoexistingretireesfromthedistrict,thedistrict’scontributionsshallberefundedtothedistrict,orshall,upontheelectionofanddesignationbythegoverningbodyofthedistrict,betransferredtoanotherpublicretirementsystem.

Article4,§31559.-§31564.125

Intheeventofthetransferofdistrictcontributionstoanotherpublicretirementsystem,theemployeecontributionsshallalsobetransferredtotheotherpublicretirementsystem.

The effective date of withdrawal of any resolution adopted pursuant to this section shall beattheendofthecalendarmonthduringwhichsuchresolutionisadopted.

(AmendedbyStats.1969,Ch.317,Sec.1,EffectiveJune30,1969)

§31564.2. Liability of district upon termination of participation(a)Ifadistrict’sparticipationintheretirementsystemisterminatedpursuanttothe

provisionsofSection31564,thedistrictshallremainliabletotheretirementsystemforthedistrict’sshareofanyunfundedactuarialliabilityofthesystemwhichisattributabletotheofficersandemployeesofthedistrictwhoeitherhaveretiredorwillretireundertheretirementsystem.

(b)Unlessotherwisedevelopedbyanactuarialsourceandapprovedbytheboardofretirement,theamountofthedistrict’sliabilityshallbetheunfundedactuarialliabilityoftheentiresystem,computedasdescribedbelow,multipliedbyafraction:

(1)Thenumeratorofwhichisthetotalamountrequiredtobecontributedtotheplanbythewithdrawingdistrictforthelastfiveyearsendingpriortothewithdrawaldate.

(2)Thedenominatorofwhichisthetotalamountrequiredtobecontributedtotheplanbyallparticipatingemployersforthelastfiveyears.

Theplan’stotalunfundedactuarialliabilityforthispurposeshallbecalculatedonthebasisoftheactuarialassumptionsusedintheplan’smostrecentactuarialvaluation,exceptthatalldistrictmembersshallbeassumedtoterminateasofthedateofwithdrawal.

(c)Thedistrict’sliabilityshallbepaidinaccordancewithascheduledeterminedbytheretirementboardoveraperiodnolongerthantheperiodoverwhichtheplan’sremainingunfundedactuarialliabilityisbeingamortized.

(d)Thefundingoftheretirementbenefitsfortheemployeesofawithdrawingagencyissolelytheresponsibilityofthewithdrawingagencyortheboardofsupervisors.Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no contracting agency shall fail or refuse to pay theemployer’scontributionrequiredbythischapterortopaytheemployer’scontributionrequiredbythischapterwithintheapplicabletimelimitations.Indealingwithawithdrawingdistrict,theboardofretirementshalltakewhateveractionneededtoensuretheactuarialsoundnessoftheretirementsystem.

(e)TheLegislaturefindsanddeclaresthatthissectionisdeclaratoryofexistinglaw,tothe extent this section provides that upon withdrawal from the retirement system, a district shallremainliableforitsshareoftheunfundedactuarialliabilityofthesystem.Thissectionisintendedtodefinethemethodofcalculatingthedistrict’sshareofthatunfundedactuarialliability.


§31564.5. Contract by governing body of district for additional appropriation to pay costs of systemWheneverthegoverningbodyofadistrictforwhichtheboardofsupervisorsisnot

thegoverningbodyadoptsaresolutionfortheinclusionofsuchdistrictintheretirementassociation,if,intheopinionoftheboardbecauseofconditionspeculiartosuchdistrictthecontributionsrequiredfromsuchdistrictbythischapterareinsufficienttopaythesameproportionofthecostsofthesystemaswillbepaidbythecounty,theboardmayrequirethatsuchdistrictcontractwiththeboardtoappropriateadditionalsums.If,becauseofconditionspeculiartosuchdistrictthecontributionsrequiredfromsuchdistrictbythischapteraregreaterthannecessarytopaythesameproportionofthecostsofthesystemaswillbe

Article4,§31564.-§31564.5. 126

paidbythecounty,theboardandsuchdistrictmaycontractforlessersums.Eitherofsuchcontractsmayprovide,amongotherthings,thatwhenevertheboardofsupervisorsmakesanadditionalappropriationpursuanttoSection31454.5,thedistrictalsowillmakeanadditionalappropriationcalculatedbyaformulaspecifiedinsuchcontract.Allsuchdistrictsareherebyauthorizedtoenterintoandperformsuchcontracts.


§31565. Transfer of membership to state teachers’ retirement system; withdrawal of contributionsAnymemberofasystemestablishedunderthischapterwhoisemployedinastatus

requisiteformembershipintheStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,mayelecttotransferhismembershiptothatsystem.Anymemberwhoelectstotransferhismembershippursuanttothissectionmayalsoelectinwritingtowithdrawhisaccumulatedcontributions,andinsucheventheshallbepaidallofhisaccumulatedcontributionsinthecountyretirementsystem.


§31565.5. Election of employees of county superintendent of schools to remain members of county systemAnymemberofasystemestablishedunderthischapterwhoceasestobeanemployee

ofthecountyundertheprovisionsofEducationCodeSection873mayelectasauthorizedinEducationCodeSection873.1toremainamemberofsuchsystem.

(AddedbyStats.1965,Ch.717,Sec.6,EffectiveJune18,1965)

§31567. Member employed in active law enforcement or fire suppression position, election to become safety member; credit for serviceAnymemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterwhoisemployed

inaposition,theprincipaldutiesofwhichconsistofactivelawenforcementoractivefiresuppressionasdefinedunderSections31469.3,31470.2and31470.4,andwho,priorto1955,hadtherighttoelecttobecomeasafetymemberofsuchsystemshallagainhavetherighttoelecttobecomeasafetymember.Noticeofsuchelectionshallbegiveninwritingtotheboardofretirementadministeringthesystem.

Themember’sstatusasasafetymembershallbeeffectiveonthefirstdayofthesecondmonthfollowingthatinwhichthenoticeofelectionisreceivedbytheboardofretirement.

Suchamembermayelecttoreceivecreditforservicerenderedasamemberofsuchsystem,asifhehadbeenasafetymembercommencingin1955.Noticeofsuchelectionshallbegiveninwritingtotheboardofretirementnolessthan30dayspriortothemember’sretirement.Themembershallreceivecreditforsuchservice,asasafetymember,ifhecontributesthedifferencebetweenthemembercontributionsactuallymadeforthatperiodofserviceandthecontributionsthathewouldhavebeenrequiredtomakeifhehadbeenasafetymemberduringthatperiod.Themembershallalsocontributeinterestonthedifferenceattheratesatwhichinterestwascreditedonmembercontributionsforeachyearoftheperiodforwhichcreditissought.

Anelectionunderthissectionshallbeirrevocable,andtheadditionalcontributionpaymentshereunderrequired,ifnotcompletedasspecified,shallbeforfeitedtotheretirementfund,andaforfeitingmembershallthenreceiveonlygeneralmembershipbenefits.Additionalcontributionsshallbemadebylumpsumpaymentorinsuchmonthlypayrolldeductionamountsasdeterminedbytheboard,butmustbemadepriortothemember’sretirement.


Article4,§31564.5.-§31567.127

Article 5Financial Provisions


§31580. Annual appropriation for administrative expensesTheboardofsupervisorsshallappropriateannuallyfromthepropercountyfundsthe

amountnecessarytodefraytheentireexpenseofadministrationoftheretirementsystembaseduponbudgetestimatespreparedbythetreasurer.


§31580.1. Contribution from districts; costs of administering retirement system; penalty assessments for delinquenciesTheboardmayincludeeachyearinthecontributionrequiredofadistrictareasonable

amount, which may differ from district to district, to cover the costs of administering its retirementsystemassuchcostsaffecttheactiveandretiredemployeesofthatdistrict.Theboardmayalsoassessadistrictareasonableamounttocovercostsincurredbecauseofthedistrict’sfailuretosubmitreportsandforwardcontributionsonatimelybasis.


§31580.2. Annual budget; expenses of administration; charges against earnings of fund(a)Incountiesinwhichtheboardofretirement,ortheboardofretirementandthe

boardofinvestment,haveappointedpersonnelpursuanttoSection31522.1,31522.5,or31522.7,therespectiveboardorboardsshallannuallyadoptabudgetcoveringtheentireexpenseofadministrationoftheretirementsystemwhichexpenseshallbechargedagainsttheearningsoftheretirementfund.Theexpenseincurredinanyyearmaynotexceedthegreaterofeitherofthe following:

(1)Twenty-onehundredthsof1percentoftheaccruedactuarialliabilityoftheretirementsystem.

(2)Twomilliondollars($2,000,000),asadjustedannuallybytheamountoftheannualcost-of-livingadjustmentcomputedinaccordancewithArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31870).

(b)Expendituresforcomputersoftware,computerhardware,andcomputertechnologyconsultingservicesinsupportofthesecomputerproductsshallnotbeconsideredacostofadministrationoftheretirementsystemforpurposesofthissection.

(AmendedbyStats.1990,Ch.419,Sec.5,EffectiveJuly26,1990,asanurgencystatute)(AmendedbyStats.2002,Ch.74(AB1992),Sec.4,EffectiveJune27,2002,asanurgency

statute)(AmendedbyStats.2007,Ch.327(AB1124),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2010,Ch.663(AB609),Sec.1)

§31580.3. (Repealed January 1, 2013) Expenditures for software, hardware, and computer technology(AddedbyStats.2003,Ch.95(AB374),Sec.1,RepealedbyitsowntermsJanuary1,

2007)(AddedbyStats.2007,Ch.327(AB1124),Sec.3)(RepealedbyStats.2010,Ch.663(AB609),Sec.2)

§31581. County contribution; rateAfterthedateasystembecomesoperativetheboardofsupervisorsshall,inthe

Article5,§31580.-§31581. 128

preparationandadoptionofthecountybudget,addtotheappropriationforsalariesandwagesandincludethereinanappropriationdeterminedpursuanttoSections31453,31453.5and31454.Untilsuchdeterminationtheadditionalappropriationsshallequal23.77percentofthetotalcompensationprovidedforallsafetymemberscoveredbyArticle7.5(commencingwithSection31662)and8.85percentofthetotalcompensationprovidedforallotheremployeeswhoaremembersoftheretirementassociation.

(AmendedbyStats.1971,Ch.224,Sec.2,EffectiveJune28,1971)

§31581.1. Election to pay up to one-half of contributions normally required of members; resolution by board of supervisors(a)Theboardofsupervisorsmayelecttopayuptoone-halfofthecontributions

normallyrequiredofmembersforanyperiodoftimedesignatedintheresolutionprovidingforsuchpayment.Thepaymentsshallnotbecomepartoftheaccumulatedcontributionsofthemember.Thesepaymentsmaybemadewithrespecttoemployeesinoneormorebargainingunitsirrespectiveofwhethertheyaremadewithrespecttootheremployees.

(b)ThissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoaresubjecttoSection7522.30.(AddedbyStats.1976,Ch.1420,Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.16)

§31581.2. Agreement to pay any portion of contributions normally required of members; resolution not to create vested rights(a)Theboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofthedistrictmayagreetopayany

portionofthecontributionsrequiredtobepaidbyamember.Allpaymentsshallbeinlieuofwagesandshallbereportedsimplyasnormalcontributionsandshallbecreditedtomemberaccounts.

(b)Theenactmentofaresolutionpursuanttothissectionshallnotcreatevestedrightsinanymember.Theboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofthedistrictmayamendorrepealtheresolutionatanytime,subjecttotheprovisionsofSections3504and3505,oranysimilarruleorregulationofthecountyordistrict.

(c)ThissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoaresubjecttoSection7522.30.(AmendedbyStats.1989,Ch.202,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1997,Ch.223,(AB1598),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.17)

§31582. Transfer from appropriation to retirement fund; amount; advance payment(a)Thecountyauditorshallcertifytotheboardattheendofeachmonthorattheend

ofeachpayperiodthecompensationearnable,asdefinedinSection31461,paidtoallsafetymembersoftheretirementassociationcoveredbyArticle7.5(commencingwithSection31662)andthecompensationearnable,asdefinedinSection31461,paidtoallothermembersoftheretirement association, and the auditor shall thereupon transfer from the appropriation to the retirementfundthepercentageofthisamountdeterminedpursuanttoSections31453,31453.5,and31454.Untilthatdetermination,theamountofthetransfershallbe23.77percentofthecompensationearnable,asdefinedinSection31461,paidtoallsafetymemberscoveredbyArticle7.5(commencingwithSection31662)and8.85percentofthecompensationearnable,asdefinedinSection31461,paidtoallothermembers.

(b)Theboardofsupervisorsmayauthorizethecountyauditortomakeanadvancepaymentofallorpartofthecounty’sestimatedannualcontributiontotheretirementfund,providedthatthepaymentismadewithin30daysafterthecommencementofthecounty’sfiscalyear.Iftheadvanceisonlyapartialpaymentofthecounty’sestimatedannualcontribution,transfersfromtheappropriationtotheretirementfundshallbemadeattheend

Article5,§31581.-§31582.129

of each month or at the end of each pay period until the total amount estimated for the year iscontributed.Thisamountshallbeadjustedattheendofthefiscalyeartoreflecttheactualcontributionrequiredforthatyear.

(c)(1)AdistrictsubjecttoSection31585mayalsoauthorizeanadvancepaymentofallorpartofthedistrict’sestimatedannualcontributiontotheretirementfund,providedthatthepaymentismadewithin30daysafterthecommencementofthedistrict’sfiscalyear.Iftheadvanceisonlyapartialpaymentofthedistrict’sestimatedannualcontribution,paymentstotheretirementfundshallbemadeattheendofeachmonthorattheendofeachpayperioduntilthetotalamountestimatedfortheyeariscontributed.Thisamountshallbeadjustedattheendofthefiscalyeartoreflecttheactualcontributionrequiredforthatyear.

(2)Thissubdivisionshallonlyapplytoadistrictthatispartofaretirementsysteminacountyoftheseventhclass,asdescribedinSection28020.

(AmendedbyStats.1979,Ch.95,Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.203,(AB2841),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2010,Ch.158(SB1479),Sec.2)

§31582.1. Certification requirements of Section 31582; provisions to foregoInanycountyinwhichtheboardofretirementsoprovides,thecountyauditorshallnot

berequiredtomakethecertificationsrequiredbySection31582.(AddedbyStats.1974,Ch.1317,Sec.1)

§31584. Failure of board to make appropriations or transfersTheboardofsupervisorsshallmaketheappropriations,andifitfailsorneglectsto

maketheappropriations,thecountyauditorshalltransferfromanymoneyavailableinanyfundinthecountytreasurythesumsspecifiedbythischapterandthistransfershallhavethesameforceandeffectasitwouldhavehadiftherequiredappropriationhadbeenmadebytheboardofsupervisors.


§31585. Contributions by districtsWhenanydistrictbecomesapartoftheretirementsystem,thesameappropriationsand

transfersoffundsshallbemadeasthoserequiredofthecountyinthisarticle,andsuchchargesarelegalchargesagainstthefundsofthedistrict.


§31585.1. Election of employee paid from county school service fund to remain member of county systemWhenanemployeepaidfromthecountyschoolservicefundelectstoremainamember

ofthisretirementsystemasauthorizedbySection1313oftheEducationCode,thesameappropriations,transfers,anddispositionoffundsshallbemadeasthoserequiredofthecountybythisarticle,andthosechargesarelegalchargesagainstthefundsofthecountyschoolservicefund.

(AddedbyStats.1965,Ch.717,Sec.7,EffectiveJune18,1965)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.538(SB1852),Sec.307)

§31585.2. Appropriations and transfers of funds made pursuant to Section 31585 in Orange County; legal charges against district funds; expenses of administration (Orange)Onandafterthedateadistrict,asdefinedinsubdivision(l)ofSection31468,isincluded

intheretirementsystem,thedistrict’sappropriationsandtransfersoffundsmadepursuanttoSection31585shallbelegalchargesagainstthefundsofthedistrictandshallbepartofthe

Article5,§31582.-§31585.2. 130

expenseofadministrationoftheretirementsystempursuanttoSection31580.2.(AddedbyStats.2002,Ch.74(AB1992),Sec.5,EffectiveJune27,2002,asanurgency

statute)

§31586. Payments into fund as obligations of county or districtAllpaymentsofthecountyorofanydistrictintotheretirementfund,whethermade

pursuanttothisarticleormadepursuanttolaw,areobligationsofthecountyordistrict.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31587. Application of contributionsTheboardshallapplythecontributionsofthecountyordistricttoitsobligationsunder

the system in the order and amounts as follows:First,inanamountequalduringeachfiscalyeartotheliabilityaccruingtothecountyor

districtbecauseofservicerenderedduringsuchyearandonaccountofserviceanddisabilitypensions,inanamountdeterminedbytheactuarialvaluationasinterpretedbytheactuary.

Second,inanamountequalduringeachfiscalyeartothepaymentsmadefromcontributionsbythecountyordistrictduringtheyearfordeathbenefits.

Third,thebalanceofsuchcontributionsontheliabilitiesaccruedonaccountofpriorservicebenefits.


§31588. “Employees retirement fund”Atrustfundaccounttobedesignatedas“employeesretirementfund”shallbeopened

uponthebooksoftheretirementboard,ortreasurerandauditorifauthorizedbytheboard,ofanycountyadoptingthisretirementsystem.

The“employeesretirementfund”shallbeatrustfundcreatedorcontinuedandadministeredinaccordancewiththischapter,solelyforthebenefitofthemembersandretiredmembersofthesystemandtheirsurvivorsandbeneficiaries.

Nothinginthissectionshallbeconstruedtoprohibittheretirementboardpayingadministrativecosts,alreadyauthorizedortobeauthorized,ortoprohibitthetransferofsurplusfundstocountyadvancereserves.

(AmendedbyStats.1979,Ch.427,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1995,Ch.584(AB1021),Sec.4.5)

§31588.1. Deferred yield adjustment accountThereisherebyestablishedintheCountyEmployees’RetirementSystemadeferred

yieldadjustmentaccountwhichshallbeincreasedbythesaleordispositionofanydebtsecuritiesatlessthanbookvalueandshallbedecreasedbythesaleordispositionofdebtsecuritiesatmorethanbookvalue.Attheendofeachyear,aportionofthebalanceofthisaccountshallbeoffsetagainsttheinvestmentincomeforthatyear.Theannualportionofthebalancetobeoffsetshallbeproportionaltothereciprocaloftheaverageremaininglifeofthebondssold.Theamountofthisaccountshallbeincludedinanyaccountingoractuarialcomputationsorlistingofassets.Inanyyearinwhichthegainsonthesalesofdebtsecuritiesexceedthediscountsrealizedonthesalesofsuchsecurities,theexcessshallbeusedtoreducethebalanceoftheaccount.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.


Article5,§31585.2.-§31588.1.131

§31588.2. Expending of funds; limitation to administration of system, investments, benefits to membersNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,nofundsintheretirementfundshallbe

expended for any purpose other than the expense of administration of the system, investments forthebenefitofthesystem,andtheprovisionofbenefitstothemembersandretiredmembersofthesystemandtheirsurvivorsandbeneficiaries.


§31589. Accounting as to transfers or payments to systemAlltransfersorpaymentstotheretirementsystemandallwithdrawalsandothercash

transactions,shallbeaccounteduponthebooksoftheretirementboard,ortreasurerandauditor,ifauthorizedbytheboard,inandoutoftheretirementfund,inthesamemannerascountytransactions.


§31589.1. Trade of bonds for similar bondsThereisherebyestablishedforaccountingpurposesintheCountyEmployees

RetirementLawof1937thefollowingprocedurefortreatingatradeofbondsforsimilarbonds.Anylossorgainattributabletoatradeofalikebondintheportfolioofanyretirementsystemadoptedpursuanttothischaptermaybeamortizedoverthelifeofthebondtradedoutbyaddingtoorsubtractingfromthediscountorpremiumattributabletothebondtradedin.Likebondsforpurposesofthissectionareconsideredtobebondswhichwillmaturewithinsevenyearsofthelifeofthebondtradedout.Bondstobetradedmustbeofthefirstfourgrades.Thefactthatonebondmaybeadebentureandanotheramortgagebond,orthatthebondsmayhavedifferentratesofreturn,shallnotkeepthemfrombeinglikebonds.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31590. Warrants, checks, and electronic fund transfers; signature and authorization; validity; direct deposit of electronic fund transfers; authorization of benefit payments issuance by banks(a)Allwarrants,checks,andelectronicfundtransfersdrawnontheretirementfund

shallbesignedorauthorizedbyatleasttwoboardofficersoremployees,designatedbytheboardorbythetreasurerifdesignatedbytheboard.Ifthetreasurerisdesignatedbytheboard,theboardshallalsodesignatetheauditortosignorauthorizewarrants,checks,andelectronicfundtransfers.Theauthorizationmaybebyblanketauthorizationofallwarrants,checks,orelectronicfundtransfersappearingonalistorregister,ormaybebyastandingordertodrawwarrants,checks,orelectronicfundtransfers,whichshallbegooduntilrevoked.Ifthetreasurerandauditoraredesignatedbytheboard,awarrant,check,orelectronicfundtransferisnotvaliduntilitissignedorauthorized,numbered,andrecordedbythecountyauditor,exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(c).

(b)Anypersonentitledtothereceiptofbenefitsmayauthorizethepaymentofthebenefitstobedirectlydepositedbyelectronicfundtransferintotheperson’saccountatthefinancialinstitutionoftheperson’schoiceunderaprogramfordirectdepositbyelectronictransferestablishedbytheboardortreasurerifauthorizedbytheboard.Thedirectdeposit

Article5,§31588.2.-§31590. 132

shalldischargethesystem’sobligationinrespecttothatpayment.(c)Theboardmay,or,ifauthorizedbytheboard,thetreasurershall,authorizeatrust

companyortrustdepartmentofanystateornationalbankauthorizedtoconductthebusinessofatrustcompanyinthisstateortheFederalReserveBankofSanFranciscooranybranchthereofwithinthisstate,toprocessandissuepaymentsbycheckorelectronicfundtransfer.


§31591. Interest credits; rate; termination of interest on cessation of membership(a)RegularinterestshallbecreditedsemiannuallyonJune30thandDecember31sttoall

contributionsintheretirementfundwhichhavebeenondepositforsixmonthsimmediatelypriortothatdate.Interestattherateof2½ percent per annum, until otherwise determined bytheboard,compoundedsemiannually,shallbeusedinthecalculationofbenefitsunderanymortalitytableadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors.

(b)Nointerestshallbecreditedtoamember’saccountafterthemembershipofthememberintheretirementassociationhasceased,exceptunderthefollowingcircumstances:

(1)Theformermemberhaslefthisorheraccumulatedcontributionsintheretirementfundandhaseitherelectedinwritingadeferredretirementallowance,oriseligibletosoelectunderSection31700buthasfailedtodoso.

(2)Thesurvivingspouseofadeceasedmemberorthelegallyappointedguardianofthemember’sunmarriedchildrenunderage18haselectedtoleaveadeathbenefitondepositasprovidedforinSection31781.2.

(3)Theformermember,regardlessofservice,haslefthisorheraccumulatedcontributionsintheretirementfundandhasnotterminatedemployment.


§31592. Excess interest as reserve against contingenciesEarnings of the retirement fund during any year in excess of the total interest credited

tocontributionsandreservesduringsuchyearshallremaininthefundasareserveagainstdeficienciesininterestearningsinotheryears,lossesoninvestmentsandothercontingencies,exceptasprovidedinSections31529.5and31592.2.


§31592.2. Excess interest; dispositionInanycounty,earningsoftheretirementfundduringanyyearinexcessofthetotal

interestcreditedtocontributionsandreservesduringsuchyearshallremaininthefundasareserveagainstdeficienciesininterestearningsinotheryears,lossesoninvestments,andother contingencies, except that, when such surplus exceeds 1 percent of the total assets of the retirementsystem,theboardmaytransferall,oranypart,ofsuchsurplusinexcessof1percentof the said total assets into county advance reserves for the sole purpose of payment of the cost ofthebenefitsdescribedinthischapter.

Wheretheboardofsupervisorshasprovidedforthepaymentofall,oraportion,ofthepremium,dues,orotherchargesforhealthbenefits,Medicare,orthepaymentofaccruedsickleaveatretirementtoorforall,oraportion,ofofficers,employees,andretiredemployeesandtheirdependents,fromthecountygeneralfundorothersources,theboardofretirementmayauthorizethepaymentofall,oraportion,ofpaymentsofthebenefitsdescribedinthisparagraphfromthecountyadvancereserves.


Article5,§31590.-§31592.2.133

§31592.3. Excess earnings; reserve; transfer to increase retirement allowanceInanycounty,earningsoftheretirementfund,inexcessofthetotalinterestcreditedto

contributionsandreservesshallremaininthefundasareserveagainstdeficienciesininterestearnings in other years, losses on investments, and other contingencies, except that when the total amount in the reserve exceeds 1 percent of the total assets of the retirement system, the boardmaytransferalloranypartofsuchreserveinexcessof1percentofthetotalassetsintoaspecialfundwhichshallbeusedforthesolepurposeofprovidinganincreaseinmonthlyretirementallowancepursuanttoSection31681.7orSection31739.4.IntheeventtheamountcreditedtothespecialfundisnotsufficienttopaytheentireamountoftheincreaseprovidedforbySection31681.7orSection31739.4thentheamountoftheincreaseshallbereducedinproportiontotheamountofthebalanceonhandinthespecialfundatthecloseofthefiscalyearprecedingthefiscalyearduringwhichsuchincreaseisoperative.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byordinance,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.TheboardofsupervisorsmayinsuchordinanceprovidethattheincreaseinmonthlyretirementallowanceprovidedforbySection31681.7or31739.4shallbeeffectiveonlysubjecttotheprovisionsofthissection.


§31592.4. Excess earnings; treatment as appropriations, transfers and contributions by county and districts; definition; operation of section; election by county board of supervisors; validity of agreements to provide health insurance programs unaffected; payments in lieu of those made pursuant to Section 31592.2(a)NotwithstandingArticle5.5(commencingwithSection31610)andArticle8.6

(commencingwithSection31694),theamountofexcessearningsavailableattheendofafiscalyearoftheretirementfund,shall,subjecttothelimitationsinthissection,betreatedintheimmediatelysucceedingfiscalyear,forallpurposesunderthischapter,asappropriations,transfers,andcontributionsmadetotheretirementfundbythecountyanddistricts.ThattreatmentshallbesolelyforthepurposesofmeetingtheapplicablerequirementsofSection401oftheInternalRevenueCodeoftheUnitedStates.Thattreatmentshallalsooccuronlytotheextentthat,intheimmediatelysucceedingfiscalyear,thecountyanddistrictspayfor,orotherwisemakereimbursementof,healthbenefitsformembersheretoforeorhereafterretiredandtheirdependents.Forpurposesofthissection,“excessearnings”meansearningsoftheretirementfundattheendofanyfiscalyearthatexceedthetotalinterestcreditedtocontributionsandreservesplus1percentofthetotalassetsoftheretirementfund.Theboardofsupervisorsandtheboardofretirementmaytakeanyactionsotherwiseauthorizedbylaw,necessarytoensurethattheprogramprovidedbythissectioncomplieswithallapplicablefederalandstateincometaxlaws.

(b)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisorsandtheboardofretirementofthecounty,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvoteofeachboard,makethissectionoperativeinthecounty.

(c)Nothinginthissectionisintendedto,orshouldbeconstruedto,affectthevalidityofanyagreemententeredintobyacountyandaretirementassociationwherebyacountyhas agreed to provide and fund a health insurance program for retired employees and their dependents for hospital services, medical services, dental services, and optical services, prior to theeffectivedateofthissection.

(d)Inanycountyinwhichthissectionbecomesoperative,thepaymentsprovidedpursuanttothissectionshallbeinlieuofanysimilarpaymentswhichcouldbemadepursuant

Article5,§31592.3.-§31592.4. 134

toSection31592.2andnopaymentsshallbemadepursuanttoSection31592.2forall,oraportion,ofthepremiums,dues,orotherchargesforhealthbenefitsforretiredemployeesandtheirdependents.

(AddedbyStats.1992,Ch.733,Sec.1,EffectiveJanuary1,1993)

§31592.5. Notice to organization recognized by board as representing retired county or district employees of proposed changes to retirement benefits or use or uses of excess retirement system fundsTheboardshallprovidetoanyrecognizedretireeorganizationreasonableadvance

noticeofanyproposedchangestotheretirementbenefitsofferedbythesystemortheuseorusesofexcessfundsoftheretirementsystem.Theorganizationshallhaveareasonableopportunitytocommentpriortoanyformalactionbytheboardontheproposedchanges.

(AmendedbyStats.2012,Ch.178(SB1382),Sec.4)(AddedbyStats.2003,Ch.191(SB270),Sec.1asG.C.Section31537.RenumberedbyStats.2004,Ch.441(AB979),Sec.2)

§31592.6. Board assistance in distributing communications to members; reasonable fee for mailingsInorderforarecognizedretireeorganizationtofulfillitsobligationstotheretired

membersofthesystemandtocommunicatewiththem,upontheorganization’srequesttheboardshallcooperatewithandassisttheorganizationindistributingcommunicationsregardingmembershipinandretireebenefitprogramsavailablethroughtheorganizationtoalloraportionofthoseretiredmembers.Thecontentofthosecommunicationsshallbewhollytheresponsibilityoftherecognizedretireeorganization,andtheboardshallnothaveanyliabilityforthecontentofthosecommunications.Cooperationandassistanceindistributionmayconsistofcombinedorseparatemailings.Theboardmaychargeareasonablefeeforthose mailings, which may not exceed the actual costs to the system, including staff time for preparationofthemailings.


§31593. Audit and reportTheretirementboardshallconductanauditoftheretirementsystematleastonceevery

12monthsandreportuponitsfinancialcondition.Theretirementboardmayretaintheservicesofacertifiedpublicaccountanttoperformtheannualaudit.Thatauditshallbeperformedinaccordancewithgenerallyacceptedauditingstandards.Thecostoftheauditshallbeconsideredacostoftheadministrationoftheretirementsystem.Theauditreportshalladdressthefinancialconditionoftheretirementsystem,internalaccountingcontrols,andcompliancewithapplicablelawsandregulations.Acopyoftheauditreportshallhefiledwiththeboardofsupervisors.

Nothinginthissectionshallprecludetheretirementboardfromselectingthecountyauditor to perform the annual audit, and if so done, the cost of that audit shall he considered a costoftheadministrationoftheretirementsystem.

Attherequestofthecountyboardofsupervisors,thecountyauditormayaudittheaccountsoftheretirementsystem.Theexpenseofthatauditshallnotbeacostchargeablebythecountytotheretirementsystem.

(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)(RepealedandaddedbyStats.1998,Ch.109(AB1766),Sec.5and6)

135 Article5,§31592.4.-§31593.

§31594. Investment of fundsItistheintentoftheLegislature,consistentwiththemandateofthevotersinpassing

Proposition21attheJune5,1984,PrimaryElection,toallowtheboardofanyretirementsystemgovernedbythischaptertoinvestinanyformortypeofinvestmentdeemedprudentbytheboardpursuanttotherequirementsofSection31595.Itisalsotheintentofthe Legislature to repeal, or amend as appropriate, certain statutory provisions, whether substantiveorproceduralinnature,thatrestricttheform,type,oramountofinvestmentsthatwouldotherwisebeconsideredprudentunderthetermsofthatsection.Thiswillincreasetheflexibilityandrangeofinvestmentchoiceavailabletotheseretirementsystems,whileensuringprotectionoftheinterestsoftheirbeneficiaries.

(RepealedandaddedbyStats.1984,Ch.1738,Sec.5,EffectiveSeptember30,1984)

§31595. Control of investments; authority to invest assets; discharge of dutiesTheboardhasexclusivecontroloftheinvestmentoftheemployeesretirementfund.

Theassetsofapublicpensionorretirementsystemaretrustfundsandshallbeheldfortheexclusivepurposesofprovidingbenefitstoparticipantsinthepensionorretirementsystemandtheirbeneficiariesanddefrayingreasonableexpensesofadministeringthesystem.ExceptasotherwiseexpresslyrestrictedbytheCaliforniaConstitutionandbylaw,theboardmay,in its discretion, invest, or delegate the authority to invest, the assets of the fund through the purchase,holding,orsaleofanyformortypeofinvestment,financialinstrument,orfinancialtransactionwhenprudentintheinformedopinionoftheboard.

Theboardanditsofficersandemployeesshalldischargetheirdutieswithrespecttothesystem:

(a)Solelyintheinterestof,andfortheexclusivepurposesofprovidingbenefitsto,participantsandtheirbeneficiaries,minimizingemployercontributionsthereto,anddefrayingreasonableexpensesofadministeringthesystem.

(b)Withthecare,skill,prudence,anddiligenceunderthecircumstancesthenprevailingthataprudentpersonactinginalikecapacityandfamiliarwiththesematterswoulduseintheconductofanenterpriseofalikecharacterandwithlikeaims.

(c)Shalldiversifytheinvestmentsofthesystemsoastominimizetheriskoflossandtomaximizetherateofreturn,unlessunderthecircumstancesitisclearlyprudentnottodoso.

(RepealedandaddedbyStats.1984,Ch.1738,Sec.7,EffectiveSeptember30,1984)

§31595.1. County treasurer; control of retirement system funds(a)Theboardmayauthorizethetreasurertocontrolandsafelykeepsomeorallof

themoneysoftheretirementsystem.Ifauthorized,thetreasurermayinvestandreinvestthemoneys,andmayfromtimetotimesellanysecuritiesbelongingtothesystemandmayinvestandreinvesttheproceedstherefrom.Aninvestmentinorsaleofsecuritiesshallnotbemadeexceptupontheauthorizationoftheboard.

(b)Theboard,inlieuofactingpursuanttosubdivision(a),maydelegatetoanotherentitysomeorallofthepowersprescribedinthatsubdivision.

(RepealedandaddedbyStats.1984,Ch.1738,Sec.9,EffectiveSeptember30,1984)(AmendedbyStats.1995,Ch.584(AB1021),Sec.7)

§31595.41. Validation of acts; exchange-traded call optionsAllactsmadeordonebytheboardoritsofficersandemployees,onorafterJanuary1,

1983,anduntiltheeffectivedateofthissection,withrespecttoexchange-tradedcalloptionsandrelatedmatters,whichwouldhavebeenvalidifSection31595.4,asamendedbySection1oftheactwhichenactsthissection,hadbeenineffectatthetimetheactsweremadeordone

Article5,§31594.-§31595.41. 136

areherebyratified,confirmed,andvalidated.(AddedbyStats.1983,Ch.130,Sec.2)

§31595.9. Investments in repurchase agreements or reverse repurchase agreementsNotwithstandingtheprovisionsofSection31595,inadditiontootherinvestments

authorizedbythisarticle,fundsreceivedbythecountytreasurernotrequiredforcurrentdisbursementsmaybeinvestedinrepurchaseagreementsorreverserepurchaseagreementsofanysecuritiesauthorizedbythisarticle.

Forpurposesofthissection,“repurchaseagreement”meansapurchaseofsecuritiesbytheboardpursuanttoanagreementbywhichthesellerwillrepurchasethesecuritiesonorbeforeaspecifieddateandforaspecifiedamount.

Forpurposesofthissection,“reverserepurchaseagreement”meansasaleofsecuritiesbytheboardpursuanttoanagreementbywhichtheboardwillrepurchasethesecuritiesonorbeforeaspecifieddateandforaspecifiedamount.


§31596. Sale of securities; treasurer’s duties and liabilities; custodian of securities(a)Whensecuritiesbelongingtoorheldfortheretirementassociationaresold,the

county treasurer shall deliver the securities to the purchaser upon receiving the proceeds, andmayexecuteanyandalldocumentsnecessarytotransfertitle.Thedutiesimposeduponthecountytreasurerbythisarticleareapartofhisorherofficialduties,forthefaithfulperformanceofwhichheorsheisliableonhisorherofficialbond.

(b)Theboardmay,orifauthorizedbytheboard,thetreasurershallauthorizeastateorfederallychartereddepositoryinstitution,thedepositsofwhichareinsuredbytheFederalDepositInsuranceCorporation,oranytrustcompanylicensedunderstateorfederallawtoconductthebusinessofatrustcompanyoranyFederalReserveBank,toactascustodianofanysecuritiesownedbytheretirementassociation.Inthatcase,thedutiesimposedbysubdivision(a)uponthecountytreasurershallinsteadbeperformedbytheboardandshallbeincludedinanyagreementforcustodialservices.Anyofthesebanksortrustcompaniesmaybeauthorizedtocollecttheincomefromthesecuritiesanddeposittheproceedsinanaccountestablishedbytheboardfortheretirementassociation.


§31596.1. Expenses of investing moneysTheexpensesofinvestingitsmoneysshallbebornesolelybythesystem.Thefollowingtypesofexpensesshallnotbeconsideredacostofadministrationofthe

retirementsystem,butshallbeconsideredasareductioninearningsfromthoseinvestmentsorachargeagainsttheassetsoftheretirementsystemasdeterminedbytheboard:

(a)Thecosts,asapprovedbytheboard,ofactuarialvaluationsandservicesrenderedpursuanttoSection31453.

(b)Thecompensationofanybankortrustcompanyperformingcustodialservices.(c) When an investment is made in deeds of trust and mortgages, the fees stipulated in

anyagreemententeredintowithabankormortgageservicecompanytoservicesuchdeedsoftrustandmortgages.

(d)Anyfeesstipulatedinanagreemententeredintowithinvestmentcounselforconsultingormanagementservicesinconnectionwiththeadministrationoftheboard’sinvestmentprogram,includingthesystem’sparticipationinanyformofinvestmentpoolsmanagedbyathirdpartyorparties.

Article5,§31595.41.-§31596.1.137

(e)ThecompensationtoanattorneyforservicesrenderedpursuanttoSection31607orlegalrepresentationrenderedpursuanttoSection31529.1.

(AmendedbyStats.1992,Ch.1047,Sec.3,EffectiveJanuary1,1993)

§31597. Annual financial statementBeforeJune30thofeachyeartheretirementboardshallfileintheofficeofthecounty

auditorandwiththeboardofsupervisorsaswornstatementthatshallexhibitthefinancialconditionoftheretirementsystematthecloseoftheprecedingDecember31standitsfinancialtransactionsfortheyearendingonthatday.

(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1995,Ch.584(AB1021),Sec.9)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.4)

§31597.1. Alternative financial statement; applicabilityBeforeDecember31ofeachyear,theretirementboardshallfileintheofficeofthe

countyauditorandwiththeboardofsupervisorsaswornstatementthatshallexhibitthefinancialconditionoftheretirementsystematthecloseoftheprecedingJune30thanditsfinancialtransactionsforthefiscalyearendingthatday.Thissectionisnotoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makestheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinthecounty.Afterthefilingofthefirstfiscalyearaccountingunderthissection,theprovisionsofSection31597donotapplyinthecounty.

(AddedbyStats.1979,Ch.122,Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.1995,Ch.584(AB1021),Sec.10)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.5)

§31597.2. Alternative financial statement; filingInthosecountiesinwhichtheretirementboardhasauthorizedthetreasurertocontrol

andholdtheassetsoftheretirementsystempursuanttosubdivision(a)ofSection31595.1,thetreasurershallberesponsibleforfilingthestatementrequiredbySection31597orSection31597.1,asapplicable.


§31598. Preparation of annual statementTheannualstatementshallbepreparedinaccordancewithgenerallyaccepted

accountingprinciplesonthebasisofpronouncementsoftheGovernmentAccountingStandardsBoardoritssuccessororganization.

(RepealedbyStats.1996;addedbyStats.1996,Ch.680(SB1877),Sec.10and11,respectively)

§31599. Records of contributionsInadditiontootherrecordsandaccounts,theretirementboard,orthetreasurerif

authorizedbytheboard,shallkeeprecordsandaccountsasarenecessarytoshowatanytime:(a)Thetotalaccumulatedcontributionsofmembers.(b)Thetotalaccumulatedcontributionsofretiredmemberslesstheannuitypayments

madetothemembers.(c)Theaccumulatedcontributionsofthecountyordistrictheldforthebenefitof

membersonaccountofservicerenderedasmembersoftheretirementsystem.(d)Allotheraccumulatedcontributionsofthecountyordistrict,includingtheamounts

availabletomeettheobligationofthecountyordistrictonaccountofbenefitsgrantedto

Article5,§31596.1.-§31599. 138

retiredemployeesandonaccountofpriorserviceofmembers.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1995,Ch.584(AB1021),Sec.12)

§31600. Benefits payable monthly; exceptionApension,annuity,orretirementallowanceispayableinequalmonthlyinstallments,

butasmallerprorataamountmaybepaidforpartofamonthwhenthepension,annuity,orretirementallowancebeginsafterthefirstdayofthemonthorendsbeforethelastdayofthemonth.


§31601.1. Investments in realty; counties with board of investmentsIncountieshavingaboardofinvestmentspursuanttoSection31520.2,noinvestment

shallbemadeinrealpropertyunlessitisapprovedbysixvotesoftheboardor,whereacountyboardofsupervisorsoracountyboardofeducationhasamaterialinterestinthepropertyunlessitisapprovedbyninevotesoftheboard.


§31602. Home loan program; investment of fundsNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthelaw,theboardofretirement,or,incounties

thathaveestablishedaboardofinvestments,theboardofinvestments,mayestablishaprogramutilizingtheretirementfundtoassistsystemmembersandannuitants,throughfinancing,toobtainhomesinthisstate.Theboardshalladoptregulationsgoverningtheprogram which shall, among other things, provide:

(a)Thathomeloansbemadeavailabletocurrentlyemployedmembersandannuitantsforthepurchaseofsingle-familydwellings,two-familydwellings,three-familydwellings,four-familydwellings,single-familycooperativeapartments,andsingle-familycondominiums.

(b)Thatprivatelendinginstitutionsinthisstateshalloriginateandserviceitshomeloanspursuanttoagreementsenteredintobetweenthoseinstitutionsandtheboard.

(c) That the recipients of the loans occupy the homes as their permanent residence in accordancewiththerulesandregulationsestablishedbytheboard.

(d)Thatitshomeloansshallbeavailableonlyforthepurchaseorrefinancingofhomesinthisstateandthatundernoconditionshallamemberorannuitanthavemorethanoneoutstandingloan.

(e)Thattheamountandlengthoftheloansshallbepursuanttoascheduleperiodicallyestablishedbytheboardwhichshallprovidealoantovalueratioof:(1)forthefirstloan,exceptforthree-familydwellingsandfour-familydwellings,amaximumof95percentofthefirstloan;(2)forthefirstloanonthree-familydwellingsandfour-familydwellings,amaximumof90percentofthefirstloan;and(3)foreachadditionalloan,amaximumof80percentofeachadditionalloan.Theportionofanyloanexceeding80percentofvalueshallbeinsuredbyanadmittedmortgageguarantyinsurerconformingtoChapter2A(commencingwithSection12640.01)ofPart6ofDivision2oftheInsuranceCodeinanamountsothattheunguaranteedportionoftheloandoesnotexceed75percentofthemarketvalueofthepropertytogetherwithimprovementsthereon.

(f)Thattheremaybeprepaymentpenaltiesassessedonitsloaninaccordancewiththerulesandregulationsestablishedbytheboard.

(g)Thatthecriteriaandtermsforitsloansshallprovidethegreatestbenefittomembersandannuitantsconsistentwiththefinancialintegrityoftheprogramandthesoundinvestmentoftheretirementfund.

Article5,§31599.-§31602.139

(h)Anyothertermsandconditionsastheboardshalldeemappropriate.(AmendedbyStats.1991,Ch.1091,Sec.58)

§31603. LoansTheboardofretirementortheboardofinvestments,asapplicable,mayobtainaloan

and pledge a portion of the assets of the retirement fund as security for the repayment of the loaniftheboardfindsallofthefollowing:

(a)Anemergencyexistsaffectingthenationalbankingsystemorfinancialmarkets.(b)Theemergencypreventstheassociationfromreadilyaccessingitsfunds.(c)Theloanisnecessarytopromptlydeliverbenefitswhendue.Theassetsoftheretirementfundpledgedassecurityfortheloanshallbesubjectto

execution and other processes of the court only in connection with a proceeding to enforce the loan.Thecostsassociatedwithsecuringandrepayingtheloan,includinginterest,shallbeachargeagainstinvestmentearningsofthefund.


§31607. Employment of attorneyToassistincarryingoutitsinvestmentpowersanddutiestheboardmayemployan

attorneyinprivatepractice.(AmendedbyStats.1984,Ch.1738,Sec.26,EffectiveSeptember30,1984)

Article 5.5Alternative Financial Provisions

(Article5.5addedbyStats,1983,Ch.886,Sec.4;ArticleapplicableincountiesadoptingitasprescribedbySection31610.Note:Priorto1985,thisarticlecomprisedSections31510to

31510.9)

§31610. Adoption of article; operation of certain sectionsThisarticleshallnotbecomeoperativeinanycountyunlessanduntilitisadoptedby

resolutionofthecountyboardofretirementandthecountyboardofsupervisors,whereupon,thefollowingsectionsshallnotbeoperativeastothatcounty:Sections31453,31529.5,31591,31592,31592.2,31592.3,and31871.

(AddedbyrenumberingSection31510byStats.1984,Ch.193,Sec.54)

§31611. Actuarial valuation; recommendation in change of rate of interest; costAnactuarialvaluationshallbemadewithinoneyearafterthedateonwhichanysystem

establishedunderthischapterbecomeseffective,andthereafteratintervalsnottoexceedthreeyears.Thevaluationshallbeconductedunderthesupervisionofanenrolledactuaryandshallcoverthemortality,service,andcompensationexperienceofthemembersandbeneficiaries,andshallevaluatetheassetsandliabilitiesoftheretirementfund.

Uponthebasisoftheinvestigation,valuation,andrecommendationoftheactuary,theboardshall,atleast60dayspriortothebeginningofthesucceedingfiscalyear,recommendtotheboardofsupervisorssuchchangesintheratesofinterest,intheratesofcontributionsofmembers,incountyanddistrictappropriationsasarenecessary,andappropriatemortalitytables.Inmakingrecommendationstotheboardofsupervisors,theboardshallactwiththecare,skill,prudenceanddiligenceunderthecircumstancesthenprevailingthataprudentpersonactinginalikecapacityandfamiliarwithsuchmatterswoulduseintheconductofanenterpriseofalikecharacterandwithlikeaims.

Noadjustmentshallbeincludedinthenewratesfortimepriortotheeffectivedateof

Article5,§31602.-Article5.5,§31611. 140

therevision.Thecostofactuarialvaluationsandinvestigationsmay,inthesounddiscretionoftheboard,bechargedagainsttheearningsoftheretirementfund.

(AddedbyrenumberingSection31510.1byStats.1984,Ch.193,Sec.55)

§31612. “Actuarial rate” defined“Actuarialrate”meanstheinterestassumptionrateestablishedbythemostrecent

actuarialsurveyrecommendedbytheboardofretirementandadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors.

(AddedbyrenumberingSections31510.2byStats.1984,Ch.193,Sec.56)

§31613. “Net earnings” defined“Netearnings”meanstheearningsoftheretirementfundafteraccountingforanydirect

investmentlossesrecognizedduringtheyear,lesstheamountstakenfromtheearningsasspecifiedinsubdivisions(a)and(b):

(a)TheamountsspecifiedinSections31580.2,31580.3,ifapplicable,subdivisions(b)and(d)ofSection31596,ifapplicableandSection31611and31614.

(b)AnyreductionsfromearningsrequiredbySections31588.1and31589.1,ifapplicable.PartorallofanyamountsrequiredbySections31588.1and31589.1maybededucted,atthediscretionoftheboardofretirement,fromtheContingencyReserveAccountasdescribedinSection31616.


§31614. Employment of attorney; compensation; adoption by countyNotwithstandingSection31529,theboardmaycontractforthelegalservicesofan

attorneyinprivatepracticewhentheboarddetermines,afterconsultationwiththecountycounsel,thatthecountycounselcannotprovidetheboardwithlegalservicesduetoaconflictofinterestorothercompellingreason.Thecompensationoftheattorneyshallbechargedagainsttheearningsoftheretirementfundorpaidfromthecountygeneralfunds.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31615. Interest; credit to contributions, reserves and accounts; calculation of benefitsRegularinterestattheactuarialrate,oratthehighestratepossibleifnetearnings,as

definedinSection31613arenotsufficienttocreditthefullactuarialrate,shallbecreditedsemiannuallyonJune30andDecember31toallcontributions,reserves,andaccountsintheretirementfund,excepttheContingencyReserveAccount,whichhavebeenondepositforsixmonthsimmediatelypriortothosedates.

Interestattheactuarialrate,compoundedsemiannually,shallbeusedinthecalculationofbenefitsunderanymortalitytableadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors.Nointerestshallbecreditedtoamember’saccountaftertheterminationofthemember’scountyservice,unlessthememberhaselected,inwriting,toleavehisorheraccumulatedcontributionsintheretirementfundandbegrantedadeferredretirementallowance,orthesurvivingspouseofadeceasedmemberorthelegallyappointedguardianofthemember’sunmarriedchildrenunderage18haselectedtoleaveadeathbenefitondepositasprovidedforinSection31781.2.


§31616. Contingency Reserve Account; placement of retirement fund earnings; balance; useAfterthesemiannualapplicationofSection31615,earningsoftheretirementfundin

excessofthetotalinterestcreditedtocontributionsandreservesshallremaininthefundasareserveagainstdeficienciesininterestearnings,lossesoninvestments,orpaymentsmade

Article5.5,§31611.-§31616.141

pursuanttoSection31588.1or31589.1,ifapplicable.ThesefundsshallbeplacedinanaccountknownhereafterastheContingencyReserve

Account.Thesizeofthisaccountshallbedeterminedsemiannuallybytheboardbutshallnotexceed3percentofthetotalassetsoftheretirementfund.

If,attheendofanysemiannualperiod,thebalanceoftheContingencyReserveAccountfallsbelow1percentofsystemassets,theboardshall,bytheendofthesubsequentsemiannualperiod,providefundsfromearningsoffundassetsfromthesubsequentsemiannualperiod,tobringtheleveloftheContingencyReserveAccounttoatleast1percentofsystemassets.

NofundsintheContingencyReserveAccountshallbeavailableforthepaymentofbenefits.

NetearningsremainingaftertheapplicationofthissectionshallbeappliedasprovidedinSections31617,31618,and31619.


§31617. Cost-of-living contributionsIneachcountyhavinganagreementpriortoJanuary1,1983,thatafixedpartofthe

requiredArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31870)cost-of-livingcontributionsshallcomefromexcessinterestearningsonthefund,afterthesemiannualapplicationofsections31615and31616,thebalanceofnetearnings,asdefinedinSection31613,shallbeusedtopaythosecontributions.


§31618. Supplemental Retiree Benefit Reserve; establishment; balance; transfers; distributionTheboardshallestablishaSupplementalRetireeBenefitReserveintheretirement

systemconsistingofanyamountpreviouslyinthereserveagainstdeficiencies,whichonthedate of adoption of this article, exceeds 3 percent of the assets of the retirement fund, or any lesseramount,asdeterminedbytheboard.Innoevent,however,shallthebalanceofthecontingencyReserveAccountbereducedbelow1percentofsystemassetsforthispurpose.TheSupplementalRetireeBenefitReserveshallbeusedonlyforthebenefitofretiredmembersandbeneficiaries.

Commencingonthedateofadoptionofthisarticle,thereshallbeasemiannualtransferintothisreserveof50percentofthebalanceofnetearnings,asdefinedinSection31613,aftercreditingallaccountspursuanttoSection31615,rebuildingtheContingencyReserveAccountpursuanttoSection31616andpayingthepartofthecost-of-livingcontributionspursuanttoSection31617,ifapplicable.

ThedistributionoftheSupplementalRetireeBenefitsReserveshallbedeterminedbytheboard.


§31618.5. Transfer to fund administrative costs of programs reimbursed by Supplemental Retiree Benefits Reserves; application (Alameda)(a)Theboardshallannuallytransfer,fromtheadministrativebudgetestablished

pursuanttoArticle5(commencingwithSection31580),anamountsufficienttofundtheadministrativecostsoftheprogramsreimbursedbytheSupplementalRetireeBenefitsReserve.

(b)ThissectionshallonlyapplytoacountyofthefourthclassasdescribedinSection28020.


§31619. Credit of remaining net earningsRemainingnetearnings,afterthesequentialapplicationofSections31615and31616and

Section31617,ifapplicable,andSection31618shallbecreditedtoallcontributions,reserves,andaccountsintheretirementfund,excepttheContingencyReserveAccount,inthemanner

Article5.5,§31616.-§31619. 142

prescribedinSection31615,exceptthatnofurtherinterestshallbecreditedtotheSupplementalRetireeBenefitReserve,establishedpursuanttoSection31618.


Article 6Members’ Contributions


§31620. Age basis; sex bias for rates of contribution, allowances or benefits; prohibitionThenormalrateofcontributionofmembersshallbebasedonageatthenearest

birthdayatthetimeofentranceintotheretirementsystem.Notwithstanding any provisions of this chapter to the contrary, separate rates of

contribution,allowances,orbenefitsformaleandfemalemembersshallnotbemaintainedorestablished.

(AmendedbyStats.1976,Ch.1436,Sec.19.2)

§31620.5. Normal rates of contributions of general and safety members subject to California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013; determination of amount; exceptionsThenormalratesofcontributionofgeneralandsafetymemberssubjecttotheCalifornia

PublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013shallbedeterminedpursuanttoSection7522.30subjecttothefollowingexceptions:

(a)Theboardmay,butisnotrequiredto,applytheprovisionsofsubdivision(c)ofSection7522.30thatrequiretheinitialcontributionratetoberoundedtothenearestquarterof1percent.

(b)Subdivision(d)ofSection7522.30shallnotapplytothecontributionratesofmembersofretirementsystemsestablishedpursuanttothischapter.


§31621. Normal rate of contributionThenormalratesofcontributionexceptformemberscoveredbyArticle6.8shallbesuch

aswillprovideanaverageannuityatage60equaltooneonehundred-twentiethofthefinalcompensationofmembersnotcoveredbyArticle6.8,accordingtothetablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,foreachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.


§31621.1. Contribution to provide average annuity at age 55IncountiesadoptingSection31676.11thenormalratesofcontributionexceptfor

memberscoveredbyarticle6.8shallbesuchaswillprovideanaverageannuityatage55equalto1/120ofthefinalcompensationofmembersnotcoveredbyArticle6.8,accordingtothetablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsforeachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.

(AddedbyStats.1967,Ch.1155,Sec.1.3)

§31621.2. Contribution to provide average annuity at age 60IncountiesadoptingSection31676.12,thenormalratesofcontribution,exceptfor

memberscoveredbyArticle6.8(commencingwithSection31639)ofthischapter,shallbesuchaswillprovideanaverageannuityatage60equaltooneone-hundredthofthefinal

Article5.5,§31619.-Article6,§31621.2.143

compensationofmembersnotcoveredbyArticle6.8accordingtotablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,foreachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.


§31621.3. Contribution to provide average annuity at age 55; applicability of sectionIncountiesadoptingSection31676.11,31676.13,or31676.14,oradoptingoneof

suchsectionsandthensubsequentlyadoptinganotherofsuchsections,thenormalrateofcontribution,exceptformemberscoveredbyArticle6.8(commencingwithSection31639)ofthischaptershallbesuchaswillprovideanaverageannuityatage55equaltoonetwo-hundred-fortiethofthefinalcompensationofmembersnotcoveredbyArticle6.8,accordingtothetablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,foreachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.

Thissectionmaybemadeapplicableinsuchcountiesonthefirstdayofthemonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsofsuchcountyadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthissectionshallbecomeapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31621.4. Normal rates of contribution; average annuity at age 60ThenormalratesofcontributionexceptformemberscoveredbyArticle6.8shallbe

suchaswillprovideanaverageannuityatage60equaltoonetwo-hundred-fortiethofthefinalcompensationofmembersnotcoveredbyArticle6.8(commencingwithSection31639)ofthischapter,accordingtothetablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,foreachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.

Thissectionmaybemadeapplicableinsuchcountiesonthefirstdayofthemonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsofsuchcountyadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthissectionshallbecomeapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31621.5. Counties adopting Section 31676.12; normal rates of contribution; average annuity at age 60IncountiesadoptingSection31676.12,thenormalratesofcontribution,exceptfor

memberscoveredbyArticle6.8(commencingwithSection31639)ofthischapter,shallbesuchaswillprovideanannualannuityatage60equaltoonetwo-hundredthofthefinalcompensationofmembersnotcoveredbyArticle6.8,accordingtotablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,foreachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.

Thissectionmaybemadeapplicableinsuchcounties,onthefirstdayofthemonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsofsuchcountyadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthissectionshallbecomeapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31621.6. Counties adopting Section 31676.15; normal rates of contribution; average annuity age at 55IncountiesadoptingSection31676.15,thenormalratesofcontribution,exceptfor

memberscoveredbyArticle6.8(commencingSection31639)ofthischapter,shallbesuchastoprovideanaverageannuityatage55equaltooneone-hundredthofthefinalcompensationofmembersnotcoveredbyArticle6.8,accordingtothetablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,foreachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.


Article6,§31621.2.-§31621.6. 144

§31621.7. Normal rates of contribution; average annuity at age 55 (Contra Costa)ThenormalratesofcontributionformemberscoveredbySection31751shallbesuchas

willprovideanaverageannuityatage55equaltoone-threehundredthofthemember’sfinalcompensation,accordingtothetablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,foreachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.

UntilrevisedpursuanttoSections31453and31454,thenormalrateofcontributionofeachmemberisthatpercentageofthemember’searnablecompensation,showninthefollowingtableaccordingtothemember’sageatthetimeofentryintotheretirementsystem:

Age of entry Percentage into system of contribution 16 2.93 17 2.93 18 2.93 19 2.93 20 2.93 21 2.93 22 2.93 23 2.94 24 2.94 25 2.95 26 2.96 27 2.97 28 2.98 29 3.00 30 3.02 31 3.04 32 3.06 33 3.08 34 3.10 35 3.12 36 3.15 37 3.17 38 3.20 39 3.22 40 3.25 41 3.28 42 3.31 43 3.34 44 3.37 45 3.40 46 3.43 47 3.46 48 3.50 49 3.54 50 3.57 51 3.61 52 3.65 53 3.69 54andover 3.72

(AddedbyStats.1980,Ch.58,Sec.1,EffectiveApril4,1980)

Article6,§31621.7.145

§31621.8. Counties adopting Section 31676.17, 31676.18, or 31676.19; normal rates of contribution; average annuity age at 55IncountiesadoptingSection31676.17,31676.18,or31676.19,thenormalratesof

contribution,exceptformemberscoveredbyArticle6.8(commencingwithSection31639),shallberatesthatprovideanaverageannuityattheageof55yearsequaltooneone-hundredthofthefinalcompensationofmembersnotcoveredbyArticle6.8,accordingtothetablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,foreachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.


§31621.9. Counties adopting Section 31676.14; normal rates of contribution; application (San Mateo, Stanislaus)

IncountiesadoptingSection31676.14,thenormalratesofcontribution,exceptformemberscoveredbyArticle6.8(commencingwithSection31639),shallbethatwhichwillprovideanaverageannuityatage55equalto1/120ofthefinalcompensationofmembersnotcoveredbyArticle6.8(commencingwithSection31639),accordingtothetablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,foreachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.

Thissectionmaybemadeapplicableincountiesonthefirstdayofthemonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsofthecountyadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionadoptingthissection.

Thissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyofthe10thor20thclass,asprovidedbySections28020,28031,and28041.

(AddedbyStats.2001,Ch.784(AB867),Sec.2,EffectiveOctober13,2001)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.96,(AB398),Sec.3)

§31621.11. Single rate of contributions; conditions InsteadofthenormalratesofcontributionrequiredbySection31621,31621.1,31621.2,

or31621.8theboardmay,uponactuarialadvice,establishasinglerateofcontributionsapplicabletoallpersonsbecomingmembersafterthissectionismadeoperativeinthatcountybytheboard.However,thisrateshallbesuchastoprovidetheaverageannuitydescribedinSection31621,31621.1,31621.2,or31621.8.


§31622. Table of percentagesUntilrevisedpursuanttoSection31453and31454,therateofcontributionofeach

membernotcoveredbyArticle6.8isthatpercentageofhisearnablecompensationshowninthefollowingtablesaccordingtoageandsexatthetimeofentryintotheretirementsystem:

Percentage Percentage Age of entry of contribution, of contribution, into system Male Female 16 6.55 7.02 17 6.59 7.07 18 6.63 7.13 19 6.67 7.19 20 6.71 7.25 21 6.75 7.31 22 6.80 7.38 23 6.85 7.45 24 6.90 7.52 25 6.96 7.61 26 7.01 7.69 27 7.07 7.78

Article6,§31621.8.-§31622. 146

Percentage Percentage Age of entry of contribution, of contribution, into system Male Female 28 7.14 7.87 29 7.20 7.96 30 7.27 8.06 31 7.34 8.16 32 7.42 8.26 33 7.49 8.37 34 7.58 8.48 35 7.66 8.58 36 7.75 8.69 37 7.84 8.80 38 7.93 8.92 39 8.02 9.03 40 8.12 9.15 41 8.22 9.27 42 8.33 9.38 43 8.43 9.51 44 8.54 9.63 45 8.64 9.75 46 8.75 9.88 47 8.86 10.00 48 8.97 10.13 49 9.08 10.26 50 9.20 10.39 51 9.31 10.52 52 9.42 10.65 53 9.54 10.79 54 9.65 10.93 55 9.76 11.07 56 9.88 11.21 57 10.00 11.35 58 10.12 11.49 59 10.25 11.64 60 ____ ___


§31623. Rate of contribution for members over 59 and aged 16Thenormalrateofcontributionestablishedforage59istherateforanymembernot

coveredbyarticle6.8whohasattainedagreateragebeforeentranceintotheretirementsystem,andthatestablishedforage16istherateforanymembernotcoveredbyArticle6.8whoenterstheretirementsystematalesserage.


§31625. Deduction from first salary or wage warrantExceptasprovidedinSection31625.1,unlessotherwiseprovidedbytheregulations

oftheboardthecontributionshallbedeductedbythecountyauditororotherofficerchargedwiththedutyofdrawingsalaryorwagewarrantsfromthefirstsalaryorwagewarrantdrawnineachmonthinfavorofeachmemberandshallbepaidtothecountytreasurerandplacedtothecreditofeachindividualmember’saccount.


Article6,§31622.-§31625.147

§31625.1. Deductions from salaries or wage warrants drawn semimonthlyInthosecountiesinwhichsalaryorwagewarrantsaredrawnsemimonthly,notto

exceedone-halfthecontributionshallbedeductedbythecountyauditororotherofficerchargedwiththedutyofdrawingsalaryorwagewarrantsfromthefirstsalaryorwagewarrantdrawnineachmonthinfavorofeachmember,andnottoexceedone-halfofsuchdeductionshallbedeductedfromthesecondsalaryorwagewarrantdrawnineachmonthinfavorofeachmember.Suchdeductionsshallbepaidtothecountytreasurerandplacedtothecreditofeachindividualmember’saccount.


§31625.2. Members having credit for 30 years' service; nondeduction of contributions(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthischapter,contributionsshallnotbe

deductedfromthesalaryofanymemberhavingcreditfor30years’serviceprovidingthememberwasamemberonMarch7,1973,andremainedinmembershipcontinuouslyuntilcreditedwith30years’service.

(b)Notwithstandingsubdivision(a),contributionsshallnotbedeductedfromthesalaryofanymemberhavingcreditfor30years’ofcontinuousserviceintheretirementassociationofacountyoftheseventhclassasestablishedbySections28020and28028.ThissubdivisionshallnotapplytoamemberwhoissubjecttotheprovisionsoftheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013.


§31625.3. Members having credit for 30 years of service; nondeduction of contributions; adoption by counties(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,contributionsshallnotbe

deductedfromthesalaryofanymemberwhowasamemberbeforeorafterMarch7,1973,oftheretirementassociation,anothercountyretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapter,orthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,andhastotalreciprocalservicecreditofnotlessthan30yearsintheretirementassociation,orintheretirementassociationandanothercountyretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapter,orthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,oracombinationthereof.

(b)Thissectionshallnotapplyinanycountyunlessanduntilitisadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.

(c)ThissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoaresubjecttoSection7522.30.(AmendedbyStats.1998,Ch.116(AB2763),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.317(AB2176),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.20)

§31626. Discharge of obligation by payment of salary less deductionPaymentofsalariesandwageslessthecontributionisfullandcompletedischargeand

acquittanceofallclaimsanddemandswhatsoeverforservicerenderedbymembersduringtheperiodcoveredbysuchpayment,exceptthebenefitsaffordedbythischapter.


§31627. Additional contributions by memberSubjecttotheregulationsprescribedbytheboard,anymembermayelecttomake

additionalcontributionsatratesinexcessofhisorhernormalcontributions,forthepurpose

Article6,§31625.1.-§31627. 148

ofprovidingadditionalbenefits.Theexerciseofthisprivilegebyamemberdoesnotrequirethecountyordistricttomakeanyadditionalcontributions.Uponapplication,theboardshallfurnishtothememberinformationconcerningthenatureandamountofadditionalbenefitstobeobtainedbytheadditionalcontributions.


§31627.1. Return of additional contributions to member; calculation of annuityAmemberwhohasadditionalcontributionsunderSection31627oftheGovernment

Code,orunderSection315041oftheGovernmentCode,may,within30dayspriortoretirement,electinwritingtohavealloranypartofhisaccumulatedadditionalcontributionsreturnedtohim.Theportionreturnedshallnotbeincludedinthecalculationofthemember’sannuity.

(AddedbyStats.1951,Ch.596,Sec.3)1Repealed

§31627.2. Return of contributions to member; effectInanycountyinwhichtheprovisionsofSection31676.1apply,anymemberwhohas

additionalcontributionsunderSection315041oftheGovernmentCode,orunderSection31627oftheGovernmentCode,mayelectinwritingtohavealloranypartofhisaccumulatedadditionalcontributionsreturnedtohim.Theportionreturnedshallnotbeincludedinthecalculationofthemember’sannuity.Theboardmayorderpaymentinwholeorinpartwithheldforaperiodnottoexceed90daysafterreceiptofsuchwrittenelection.

(AddedbyStats.1955,Ch.249,Sec.1,EffectiveApril26,1955)1Repealed

§31627.6. Additional appropriation by district upon receipt by member of credit for prior serviceWheneveranymemberelectstoreceivecreditforanytimeduringwhichhewas

employedbyadistrictandwasnotamember,underanyprovisionofthischapter,suchdistrictshallmakeanadditionalappropriationequaltotheamountwhichitwouldhaveappropriatedhadsuchmemberbeenamemberduringthetimeforwhichhehaselectedtoobtaincredit.


§31628. Return of contributions on termination; payment orders; service of notice of credit; compliance with Internal Revenue CodeIftheserviceofamemberisdiscontinuedotherthanbydeathorretirement,upon

properapplicationsubmittedtotheretirementboard,heorsheshallbepaidallofhisorheraccumulatedcontributions,inaccordancewiththischapter,minusawithdrawalcharge,ifawithdrawalchargehasbeenprovidedforbytheregulationsoftheboard.Theboardmayorder payment in whole or in part withheld for a period not to exceed six months after date ofseparation.Ifamemberdoesnotfiletheproperapplication,theboardshallsendtothemember,notmorethan90daysafterterminationofservice,athisorherlastknownaddress,aregisteredorcertifiedletter,returnreceiptrequested,statingthatheorshehasmoneytohisorhercreditonthebooksoftheretirementsystemandthatifheorshedoesnotclaimthemoneywithin10yearsafterdateofnotice,inthecaseofpersonsfirstemployedbeforeJanuary1,1976,orwithinfiveyearsinthecaseofpersonsfirstemployedonandafterJanuary1,1976,themoneywillbedepositedinandbecomeapartofthecurrentpensionreservefund.


Article6,§31627.-§31628.149

§31629. Deposit of contributions on failure of withdrawing member to claim; extended time; return by mailIfaformermemberdoesnotfileproperapplicationforthereturnofhisaccumulated

contributionswithinfiveyearsafterdateofsuchnoticetohim,suchaccumulatedcontributionsshallbedepositedinandbecomeapartofthecurrentpensionreservefund,andthereafterthefundshallnotbeliabletosuchmemberforanyportionofhisaccumulatedcontributions.

However,notwithstandingthefactthatsuchanapplicationhasnotbeenfiled,theboardofretirementmay,initssounddiscretionauthorizethereturnofanydepositaccount90daysafterthe90-daynoticereferredtoinSection31628,providedthattheformeremployeehadlessthanfiveyears’servicecreditwiththecounty.

NoreturnofanydepositaccountmaybemadebymailpursuanttothissectionunlesstheletterprovidedforinSection31628wasreceiptedforbytheformermemberandthesignedreceiptisinthepossessionoftheboardofretirementorthecountytreasurer.

Theamendmentofthissectionenactedduringthe1975-76RegularSessionshallbeeffectivewithrespecttopersonsfirstbecomingmembersofaretirementsystemonandafterJanuary1,1976.


§31629.5. Right to elect to leave accumulated contributions on deposit in retirement fund; revocation of election; service credit as employee of reciprocal system(a)NotwithstandingSections31628and31629,onandafterJanuary1,2003,amember

whoiscreditedwithlessthanthenumberofyearsofservicerequiredforvestingshallhavetherighttoelecttoleaveaccumulatedcontributionsondepositintheretirementfund.Failuretomakeanelectiontowithdrawaccumulatedcontributionsshallbedeemedanelectiontoleaveaccumulatedcontributionsondepositintheretirementfund.

(b)Anelectiontoallowaccumulatedcontributionstoremainintheretirementfundmayberevokedbythememberatanytimeexcept:(1)whilethememberisemployedincountyserviceinapositioninwhichthememberisnotexcludedfrommembershipinthissystemwithrespecttothatservice;(2)whilethememberisinserviceasamemberofapublicretirementsystemsupported,inwholeorinpart,bystatefunds;or(3)whilethememberisinservice,enteredwithinsixmonthsafterdiscontinuingcountyservice,asamemberofareciprocalretirementsystem.Allaccumulatedcontributionscontributeduptothetimeofrevocationmaythenbewithdrawn.

(c)Amemberwhosemembershipcontinuesunderthissectionissubjecttothesameage,service,anddisabilityrequirementsthatapplytoothermembersforserviceordisabilityretirement.Afterthequalificationofthememberforretirementbyreasonofage,whichshallbethelowestageapplicabletoanymembershipcategoryinwhichthememberhascreditedservice,ordisability,themembershallbeentitledtoreceivearetirementallowancebasedupontheamountofthemember’saccumulatedcontributionsandservicestandingtothemember’screditatthetimeofretirementandontheemployercontributionsheldforthememberandcalculatedinthesamemannerasforothermembers.

(d)Service,solelyforpurposesofmeetingminimumservicequalificationsforserviceordisabilityretirement,shallalsoincludeservicecreditedasanemployeeofareciprocalsystemwhenthememberretiresconcurrentlyfromallreciprocalretirementsystems.Amemberwhosecombinedservicefromallreciprocalretirementsystemsdoesnotmeettheminimumservicequalificationsmaynotreceiveaserviceordisabilityretirementfromthissystem.

(e)NotwithstandingSection31467,forpurposesofthissection,“accumulatedcontributions”meansthesumofallmembercontributionsstandingtothecreditofamember’sindividualaccount,andinterestthereon.

Article6,§31629.-§31629.5. 150


§31630. Members’ normal contributions; payment by and rights of district and certain counties(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsinthischapter,theSouthCoastAirQuality

ManagementDistrictandinanycountywhichhasadoptedSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.12,31676.13,31676.14,31676.15,or31751,theboardofsupervisorsordistrictboard,asthecasemaybe,mayagreetopayanyportionofthemembers’normalcontributionstothesystem.Allthecontributionspaidbythecountyordistrict,asthecasemaybe,shallremainitscontributions,andnorightthereinshallaccruetoanyemployeepriortotheemployee’selectiontotakearegular,deferred,ordisabilityretirement.

(b)Anycontributionspaidbytheboardofsupervisorsorthedistrictboardonbehalfofthemembersshallbeasdeterminedbyuponactuarialadvice,andapprovedbytheboardofretirement.

(c)ThissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoaresubjecttoSection7522.30.(AmendedbyStats.1980,Ch.58,Sec.2,EffectiveApril4,1980)(AmendedbyStats.1997,Ch.223(AB1598),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.21)

§31631. Authority of board of supervisors or governing body of a district to require members to pay contributions for retirement benefits; uniformity of contributions; authority to change contribution amount(a)Notwithstandinganyotherlaw,aboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyof

adistrictmay,byresolution,ordinance,contract,orcontractamendmentunderthischapter,withoutachangeinbenefits,requirethatmemberspayallorpartofthecontributionsofamemberoremployer,orboth,foranyretirementbenefitsprovidedunderthischapter.Allofthosepaymentsareherebydesignatedasemployeecontributions.Formemberswhoarerepresentedinabargainingunit,thepaymentrequirementshallbeapprovedinamemorandumofunderstandingexecutedbytheboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofadistrictandtheemployeecollectivebargainingrepresentative.Thecontributionsshallbeuniformeither(1)withrespecttoallmembersofarecognizedbargainingunitor(2)withineachofthefollowingclassifications:localmiscellaneousmembers,localpoliceofficers,localfirefighters,countypeaceofficers,andalllocalsafetymembersotherthanlocalpoliceofficers,localfirefighters,andcountypeaceofficersandclassificationscoveredpursuanttoSections7522.20and7522.25.

(b)Nothinginthissectionshallmodifyaboardofsupervisors’orthegoverningbodyofadistrict’sauthorityunderlawasitexistedonDecember31,2012,includinganyrestrictionsonthatauthority,tochangetheamountofmembercontributions.


§31631.5. Board of supervisors or governing body of a district may require members to pay 50 percent of normal cost of benefits; bargaining process (effective January 1, 2018); authority to change contribution amount(a)(1)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,aboardofsupervisors

orthegoverningbodyofadistrictmayrequirethatmemberspay50percentofthenormalcostofbenefits.However,thatcontributionshallbenomorethan14percentabovetheapplicablenormalrateofcontributionofmembersestablishedpursuanttothisarticleforlocalgeneralmembers,nomorethan33percentabovetheapplicablenormalrateofcontribution

Article6,§31629.5.-§31631.5.151

ofmembersestablishedpursuanttoArticle6.8(commencingwithSection21639)forlocalpoliceofficers,localfirefighters,countypeaceofficers,andnomorethan37percentabovetheapplicablenormalrateofcontributionofmembersestablishedpursuanttoArticle6.8(commencingwithSection31639)foralllocalsafetymembersotherthanpoliceofficers,firefighters,andcountypeaceofficers.

(2)Beforeimplementinganychangepursuanttothissubdivisionforanyrepresentedemployees,thepublicemployershallcompletethegoodfaithbargainingprocessasrequiredbylaw,includinganyimpasseproceduresrequiringmediationandfactfinding.ThissubdivisionshallbecomeoperativeonJanuary1,2018.Thissubdivisionshallnotapplytoanybargainingunitwhenthemembersofthatunitarepayingatleast50percentofthenormalcostoftheirpensionbenefitoraresubjecttoanagreementreachedpursuanttoparagraph(1).ApplicablenormalrateofcontributionofmembersmeansthestatutorilyauthorizedrateapplicabletothemembergroupasthestatutesreadonDecember31,2012.

(b)Nothinginthissectionshallmodifyaboardofsupervisors’orthegoverningbodyofadistrict’sauthorityunderlawasitexistedonDecember31,2012,includinganyrestrictionsonthatauthority,tochangetheamountofmembercontributions.


Article 6.8Safety Members’ Contributions


§31639. ApplicationThisarticleshallapplyinacountysubjecttotheprovisionsofSections31676.1and

31695.1.(AmendedbyStats.1957,Ch.568,Sec.5)

§31639.1. Age as basis; sex bias for rates of contributions, allowances or benefits; prohibitionThenormalratesofcontributionofsafetymembersshallbebasedonageatthenearest

birthdayatthetimeofentranceintotheretirementsystem.Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischaptertothecontrary,separateratesofcontributionformaleandfemalesafetymembersshallnotbemaintainedorestablished,norshalldifferentallowancesorbenefitsbeestablishedformaleandfemalemembers.


§31639.25. Rates of contributionThenormalratesofcontributionsshallbesuchaswillprovideanaverageannuityat

age50equaltooneone-hundredthofthefinalcompensationofsafetymembers,accordingtothetablesadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors,foreachyearofservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.

TheprovisionsofthissectionshallsupersedetheprovisionsofSection31639.2.(AddedbyStats.1967,Ch.550,Sec.1)

§31639.26. Single rate of contributions; conditionsInsteadofthenormalratesofcontributionrequiredbySection31639.25theboard

may,uponactuarialadvice,establishasinglerateofcontributionsapplicabletoallpersonsbecomingmembersafterthissectionismadeoperativeinthatcountybytheboard.However,

Article6,§31631.5.-Article6.8,§31639.26. 152

thisrateshallbesuchastoprovidetheaverageannuitydescribedinSection31639.25.(AmendedbyStats.1973,Ch.99,Sec.2)

§31639.3. Table of percentagesUntilrevisedpursuanttoSections31453and31454,therateofcontributionofeach

safetymemberisthatpercentageofhisorherearnablecompensationshowninthefollowingtableaccordingtoageatthetimeofentryintotheretirementsystem:

Age Percentage 18 9.27 19 9.29 20 9.32 21 9.34 22 9.43 23 9.53 24 9.63 25 9.73 26 9.83 27 9.94 28 10.04 29 10.15 30 10.25 31 10.36 32 10.48 33 10.59 34 10.71 35 10.82 36 10.94 37 11.06 38 11.17 39 11.30 40 11.42 41 11.55 42 11.66 43 11.79 44 11.92 45 12.04 46 12.17 47 12.30 48 12.43 49andover 12.56


§31639.4. Rate for age 35Thenormalrateofcontributionestablishedforage35istherateforanysafetymember

whohasattainedagreateragebeforeentranceintotheretirementsystem,andthatestablishedforage21istherateforanysafetymemberwhoenterstheretirementsystematalesserage.

(AddedbyStats.1951,Ch.1098,Sec.23)(RepealedbyStats.2008,Ch.164(AB3044),Sec.6)

Article6.8,§31639.26.-§31639.4.153

§31639.5. Normal rate of contribution; reductionThenormalrateofcontributionshallbesuchaswillprovideanaverageannuityatage

50equaltoonetwo-hundredthofthefinalcompensationofsafetymembersaccordingtothetableadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsforeachyear’sservicerenderedafterenteringthesystem.

Thissectionshallbecomeoperativeinanycountyonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsadoptsaresolutionmakingitoperativeinthecounty.


§31639.7. Persons entitled to membership by amendment of chapter; credit as safety member; election to make payments(a)Ifamembernotpreviouslywithinthefieldofmembershipasasafetymember

isbroughtwithinsuchfieldofsafetymembershipbyamendmenttothischapter,heorshemayreceivecreditasasafetymemberforalloranypartofthetimeduringwhichhisorherdutieswouldhavemadehimorhereligibletobecomeasafetymemberiftheamendmenthadthenbeenineffectbyfilingwiththeboardatthetimeheorsheelectstobecomeasafetymemberhisorherelectiontopayintotheretirementfundanamountequaltothedifferencebetweenthecontributionsactuallymadeduringthetimeforwhichheorsheclaimscreditandthecontributionsheorshewouldhavemadeduringthattime,includingalladditionalcontributions,ifany,requiredbyArticle7.5ofthischapter,hadheorshebeenasafetymember,togetherwithregularinterestontheamountrequiredtobedeposited.

(b)IfamembernotpreviouslywithinthefieldofmembershipasaLosAngelesCountyDeputySheriffisbroughtintothatfieldofmembershipbyaconsolidationoftheLosAngelesCountyOfficeofPublicSafetywiththeLosAngelesCountySheriff’sDepartment,thatmembermayreceiveadditionalcreditasasafetymemberforalloranypartofthetimethatmemberservedasanofficerwiththeLosAngelesCountyOfficeofPublicSafetyifthatmembermakesanelectiontofundanamountequaltothedifferencebetweenthememberandemployercontributionsactuallymadeasageneralmemberandthememberandemployercontributionsmade for the time in which he or she claims credit, together with regular interest on the amount requiredtobedeposited.Themembermayelecttofundthecontributionsbyeitheralumpsumpaymentorbyinstallmentpayments.Nootherrestrictionsshallbeplacedonamember’selectiontoreceiveadditionalcreditasauthorizedbythissubdivision.


§31639.75. Credit for time as general member; payment into retirement fund; partial credit election; application of sectionAsafetymembernotpreviouslywithinthefieldofmembershipasasafetymember

mayreceivenotmorethanfiveyearsofcreditasasafetymemberforalloranypartofthetimeduringwhichheorshewasageneralmemberbypayingintotheretirementfundbylumpsumorbyinstallmentpaymentsanamountequaltothedifferencebetweenthememberandemployercontributionsactuallymadeasageneralmemberandthememberandemployercontributionsthatwouldhavebeenmadehadheorshebeenasafetymemberduringthetimeforwhichheorsheclaimscredittogetherwithregularinterestontheamountrequiredtobedeposited.Amemberwhoelectstoreceivecreditforonlyapartofhisorhercountyserviceshall elect that county service latest in time and may not receive credit for any portion of that countyservicepriorintimetoanycountyserviceforwhichhedoesnotelecttoreceivecredit.Thissectionisapplicableonlytoactivememberswithfiveormoreyearsofserviceasasafetymember.

Article6.8,§31639.5.-§31639.75. 154



§31639.76. Receipt of credit as safety member (Sacramento)NotwithstandingSection31639.7,asafetymemberdescribedinsubdivision(b)of

Section31470.2mayreceivecreditasasafetymemberforalloranypartofthetimeduringwhichheorshewasnotwithinthefieldofmembershipasasafetymembertotheextentandsubjecttothetermsandconditionsprovidedinamemorandumofunderstandingbetweentheemployerandthedesignatedemployeerepresentative.

Thissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyoftheeighthclass,asdefinedinSections28020and28029,bothasamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,iftheboardofsupervisorsinthatcountyhaselectedtomakesubdivision(b)ofSection31470.2applicableinthecounty.


§31639.8. Additional contributions of persons entitled to membership by amendment of chapterTheadditionalcontributionsofsuchmembersshallberegularmonthlysalary

deductionsintheamountspecifiedbythemember,butinnocaselessthansixdollars($6)permonth.Thetotalamountdueshallbepaidpriortotheeffectivedateofhisdeathorretirement,except that his spouse, or his minor children if no spouse survives him, may elect to pay any balanceduewithin90daysafterthedeathofamember.Ifthetotalamountdueisnotpaidthemember,hisspouseorhisminorchildrenshallreceivecreditforserviceasasafetymemberforonlythetimeforwhichsuchadditionalcontributionsaremade.Anymemberwhohaselectedtomakesuchadditionalpaymentsininstallmentsbysalarydeductionsmaycompletepaymentthereofbyasinglelump-sumpaymentatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisretirement.


§31639.85. Safety members' normal contributions; payment by county; right to contributions(a) Notwithstanding any other provisions in this chapter, in any county which has

adoptedSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.12,31676.13,31676.14,or31676.15theboardofsupervisorsmayagreetopayanyportionofthesafetymembers’normalcontributionstothesystem.Allcontributionspaidbythecountyshallremaincountycontributions,andnorightthereinshallaccruetoanyemployeepriortotheemployee’selectiontotakearegular,deferred,ordisabilityretirement.

(b)Anycontributionspaidbytheboardofsupervisorsonbehalfofthesafetymembersshallbeasdetermineduponactuarialadvice,andapprovedbytheboardofretirement.

(c)ThissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoaresubjecttoSection7522.30.(AddedbyStats.1975,Ch.583,Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.1997,Ch.223,(AB1598),Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.22)

§31639.9. Counties of the ninth class; contributions and benefits; negotiation (Contra Costa)Inanycountyoftheninthclass,asdefinedbySections28020,and28030,asamendedby

Chapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,theboardofsupervisorsmaymeetandconferpursuanttotheMeyers-Millias-BrownActwitharecognizedemployeeorganizationwhichrepresentscountyemployeeswhoarenotsafetymembersbecausetheboardofsupervisorshasnotmadeSection31469.4applicableinthecounty,andendeavortoreachagreementonanyconditionsto

Article6.8,§31639.75.-§31639.9.155

berequiredofemployeesoranemployeeorganizationseekingtohaveSection31469.4madeapplicable,including,butnotlimitedto,whethertheemployeesshallberequiredtopayallorpartoftheemployer’snormalandcost-of-livingcontributions,inexcessofthoseitwouldhavepaidiftheemployeeshadremainedgeneralmembers,includinganyincreasedemployernormalandcost-of-livingcontributionratesattributabletoemployeeswhohavebecomesafetymemberselectingtopurchasecreditasasafetymember,pursuanttoSection31639.7,fortimeservedinaneligiblepositionpriortobecomingasafetymember.

Anycontributionspaidbytheemployeesonbehalfoftheemployertocovertheincreasedcostofsafetyretirementshallbeasdetermineduponactuarialadviceandapprovedbytheboardofretirement.

Theprovisionsofthissectionshallnotbeapplicableinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisorsbyresolutionmakestheprovisionsapplicable.


§31639.95. Section applicable to Contra Costa County retirement system by resolution; payment of employer’s contributions by employees; application to safety members (Contra Costa)(a) This section shall only apply to the retirement system of Contra Costa County and

onlyiftheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionmakingthissectionapplicableinthecounty.Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,theboardofsupervisorsmaymakethissectionapplicableinthecountyonadatespecifiedintheresolution,whichdatemaybedifferentthanthedateoftheresolution.

(b)(1)WhentheboardofsupervisorsmeetsandconferspursuanttotheMeyers-Milias-BrownAct(Chapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1)withanyrecognizedemployeeorganizationthatrepresentscountyemployeeswhoaresafetymembers,the parties may agree, pursuant to a memorandum of understanding, to any of the following:

(A)Whethertheemployeesshallberequiredtopayallorpartoftheemployer’scontributionsrequiredtofundthebenefitsofSection31664.1,theamountorpercentageofthatcontribution,themethodthatthecontributionismade,andthecommencementdate,whichmaypredatetheeffectivedateofthememorandumofunderstanding.

(B)SubjecttoanagreementreachedpursuanttoSection31484.9,whethertheemployeesshallberequiredtopayallorpartoftheemployer’scontributionsrequiredtofundthebenefitsofSection31664.2,theamountorpercentageofthatcontribution,themethodthatthecontributionismade,andthecommencementdate,whichmaypredatetheeffectivedateofthememorandumofunderstanding.

(C)Changinganyofthoseconditionsdescribedinsubparagraph(A)or(B),including,butnotlimitedto,increasingorreducing,foranyyears,theportionandtheamountoftheemployer’scontributionsthatemployeesarerequiredtopay.

(2)Thetermsofanyagreementsreachedwitharecognizedemployeeorganizationpursuanttothissubdivisionmaybemadeapplicablebytheboardofsupervisorstounrepresentedcountyemployeeswhoaresafetymembers.

(c)(1)Aftertheboardofsupervisorshasadoptedtheresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a),thegoverningbodyofadistrictwithinthecountymaymakethissectionapplicabletoitsemployeeswhoaresafetymemberspursuanttoamemorandumofunderstandingundertheMeyers-Milias-BrownActwithanyrecognizedemployeeorganizationthatrepresentsdistrictemployeeswhoaresafetymembersonanyofthemattersdescribedinsubdivision(b).

(2)Thetermsofanyagreementsreachedwitharecognizedemployeeorganizationpursuanttothissubdivisionmaybemadeapplicablebythegoverningbodyofthedistricttounrepresenteddistrictemployeeswhoaresafetymembers.

Article6.8,§31639.9.-§31639.95. 156

(d)Anycontributionspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbedeemedtobepartofthemember’saccumulatedcontributions.

(AddedbyStats.2002,Ch.695(SB2100),Sec.1,EffectiveSeptember18,2002,asanurgency statute)


Article 7Service


§31640. “County service” defined“Countyservice”meanstheemploymentofapersonbyacounty,district,municipal

court,orsuperiorcourt.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31640.5. Computing credit for temporary, seasonal, intermittent or part time service; “year of service” definedWhereserviceforwhichamemberreceivescredit,eitherpriortoorduringmembership,

isonatenurewhichistemporary,seasonal,intermittent,orparttimeonly,themembershallreceive credit as continuous service for that proportion of the time he or she held the position as thetimeheorsheactuallywasengagedintheperformanceofthedutiesofthepositionbearstothetimerequiredtoperformthesamedutiesinafull-timeposition.

A“yearofservice”inthepositionshallbeconstruedtomeanthetimeduringwhichthememberhasearnedonefullyearofcredit,calculatedasprovidedinthissection.

Theprovisionsofthisactaredeclaratoryofexistinglaw.(AddedbyStats.1955,Ch.1756,Sec.4)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.830(AB85),Sec.1)

§31640.7. Proscription against credit for service not performed; Purchase of additional credit(a)Amemberofaretirementsystemshallnotreceivecreditforserviceorcontributions

forcreditforserviceinviolationoftheprohibitionsprovidedinSection23007.5or50033.(b)Nothinginthissectionshallprohibitanelectiveofficerfrompurchasingservice

creditpursuanttoSection31658.(AddedbyStats.2006,Ch.355(AB2351),Sec.3)

§31641. “Service” defined“Service”meansuninterruptedemploymentofanypersonappointedorelectedforthat

period of time:(a)Forwhichdeductionsaremadefromhisearnablecompensationfromthecountyor

districtforsuchservicewhileheisamemberoftheretirementassociation.(b)Inmilitaryserviceforwhichthecountyordistrictormemberisauthorizedbyother

provisionsofthischaptertomake,anddoesmakecontributions.(c)Forwhichhereceivescreditforcountyserviceorforpublicserviceorforboth

pursuanttotheprovisionsofthisarticle.(d)Allowedforpriorservice.(AmendedbyStats.1955,Ch.363,Sec.11)

Article6.8,§31639.95.-Article7,§31641.157

§31641.01. Sacramento and Contra Costa Counties; sick leave credit (Sacramento, Contra Costa)InanycountyoftheeighthorninthclassasestablishedinSections28020,28029and

28030asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,theboardofsupervisorsmayprovidebyordinancethateachmembershallbecredited,attherateofonedayforeachonedayearned,withsickleaveaccumulatedasofthedateofhisretirementandthatsickleavecreditshallbeinadditiontoservicecredit.Theadditionalcosttotheretirementsystemshallbebornebythecountyordistrict.


§31641.02. Third class county; sick leave credit (San Diego)InanycountyofthethirdclassasestablishedinSection28024,theboardofsupervisors

mayprovidebyordinancethatmembersspecifiedintheordinanceshallbecredited,foruptothefullamountofsickleaveaccumulatedasofthedateoftheirretirement,andthatsickleavecreditshallbeinadditiontoservicecredit.Theadditionalcosttotheretirementsystemshallbebornebythecountyordistrict.


§31641.03. Credit for accumulated sick leave; ordinance or resolution; necessityInanycountytheboardofsupervisorsmayprovidebyordinancethatmembers

specifiedintheordinanceshallbecredited,forupto100percentofsickleaveaccumulatedasofthedateoftheirretirement,andthatsickleavecreditshallbeinadditiontoservicecredit.Theadditionalcosttotheretirementsystemshallbebornebythecountyordistrict.

Thissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoareemployedbyadistrictunlessthegoverningboardofthedistrictprovidesbyresolutionforitsapplicationtosuchmembers.


§31641.04. Additional service credit; retirement pursuant to resolution; conditions; applicability(a)Whentheboardofsupervisors,byresolution,determinesthatbecauseofan

impending curtailment of service or change in the manner of performing service, savings ofmoney,orothereconomicbenefitresultingtothecounty,thebestinterestsofthecountywouldbeserved,amembershallbeeligibletoreceiveadditionalservicecreditifthefollowingconditions exist:

(1)Thememberisemployedinajobclassification,countydepartment,orothercountyorganizationalunitincludedintheresolutionadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors.

(2)Thememberretiresonorbetweendatesspecifiedbytheboardofsupervisorsinitsresolution.Innoeventshallthespecifiedperiodexceed180days.

(3)Thecountytransmitstotheretirementfundanamountdeterminedbytheboardofretirementwhichisequaltotheactuarialequivalentofthedifferencebetweentheallowancethememberreceivesafterthereceiptofservicecreditunderthissectionandtheamounthewouldhavereceivedwithoutsuchservicecredit.Thetransfertotheretirementfundshallbemadeinamannerandtimeperiodacceptabletothecountyandtheboardofretirement.

(b)Theamountofservicecreditshallbethatamountastheboardofsupervisorsdeterminesbutshallnotbemorethantwoyearsregardlessofcreditedserviceandshallnotexceedthenumberofyearsinterveningbetweenthedateofthemember’sretirementandthedatethememberwouldberequiredtoberetiredbecauseofage.

(c)Acountywhichelectstomakethepaymentprescribedbysubdivision(a)shallmakesuchpaymentwithrespecttoalleligibleemployeeswhoretireduringtheperiodspecifiedby

Article7,§31641.01.-§31641.04. 158

theboardofsupervisors.(d)Thissectionshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberotherwiseeligibleifsuchmember

receives any unemployment insurance payments during the period six months prior to the periodspecifiedpursuanttosubdivision(a).Thissectionshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberifthememberisnoteligibletoretirewithouttheadditionalcreditavailableunderthissection.

(e)Thissectionshallnotbeapplicableinanycountyuntilitisadoptedbyordinanceoftheboardofsupervisors.Anycountymayadoptorreadoptthissectionfromtimetotimeasconditionsmaywarrant.ThissectionshallnotbeapplicableinanydistrictwhoseemployeesaremembersofthesystempursuanttoSection31557untilitisadoptedbyordinancebythegoverningbodyofthedistrict.AnydistrictwhoseemployeesaremembersofthesystempursuanttoSection31557mayadoptorreadoptthissectionfromtimetotimeasconditionswarrant.

(f)Anymemberwhoqualifiesunderthissectionuponsubsequentreentrytocountyemploymentshallforfeittheservicecreditacquiredunderthissection,unlessthereentryisaresultofatemporarycallbacklimitedtoamaximumof720hoursofserviceinanyoneyear.

(g)ThissectionshallnotbesubjecttotheprovisionsofChapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1.


§31641.05. Members credited with 10 or more years of service; additional service credit; amounts; cost recapture; verification by audit; application of section; forfeiture upon reemployment; duration of section(a)NotwithstandingSection31641.04oranyotherprovisionofthispart,foronlythe

1994-95,1995-96,1996-97,1997-98,and1998-99fiscalyears,whentheboardofsupervisors,byresolution,determinesthatbecauseofanimpendingcurtailmentofserviceorchangeinthemannerofperformingservice,savingsofmoney,orothereconomicbenefitresultingtothecounty,thebestinterestsofthecountywouldbeserved,amembershallbeeligibletoreceiveadditional service credit if all of the following conditions exist:

(1)Thememberisemployedinajobclassification,countydepartment,orothercountyorganizationalunitincludedintheresolutionadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors.

(2)Thememberiscreditedwith10ormoreyearsofserviceandretiresonorbetweendatesspecifiedbytheboardofsupervisorsinitsresolution.Innoeventshallthespecifiedperiodexceed120days.

(3)Thecountytransmitstotheretirementfundanamountdeterminedbytheboardofretirementthatisequaltotheactuarialequivalentofthedifferencebetweentheallowancethememberreceivesafterthereceiptofservicecreditunderthissectionandtheamountheorshewouldhavereceivedwithoutthatservicecredit.Thetransfertotheretirementfundshallbemadeinamannerandtimeperiodacceptabletothecountyandtheboardofretirement.However,thepaymentperiodshallnotexceedfiveyears.

(b)Theamountofservicecreditshallbetheamountthattheboardofsupervisorsdetermines,butshallnotbemorethanfouryearsregardlessofcreditedserviceandshallnotexceedthenumberofyearsinterveningbetweenthedateofthemember’sretirementandthedatethememberwouldberequiredtoberetiredbecauseofageandshallnotbecombinedwithanyadditionalservicecreditgrantedunderSection31641.04.

(c)Theresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a)shalleitheridentifysufficientdeletedpositionswhosetotalcostequalsorexceedsthelump-sumactuarialcostoftheadditionalservice credit granted or proclaim that all positions vacated due to the additional service credit grantedpursuanttothissectionshallremainvacantforatleastfiveyearsanduntilthelump-sumactuarialcostoftheadditionalservicecreditgrantedhasbeenrecapturedfromposition

Article7,§31641.04.-§31641.05.159

vacancysalarysavings.(d)Theboardofsupervisorsshallcertifytotheboardofretirementtheextenttowhich

savingswillexceednecessarypaymentstotheboardofretirement,andthespecificmeasurestobetakentoassurethatoutcome.Theboardofretirementmayrequiretheboardofsupervisorstoprovideverificationofitscertificationthroughindependentreview.

(e)Atthetimethecountyhasachievedsavingsthataremorethanadequatetomeetnecessarypaymentstotheboardofretirement,orfiveyearsaftercommencementoftheretirementperiodspecifiedinparagraph(2)ofthissection,whicheveroccursfirst,theboardofsupervisorsshallcertifytotheretirementboardtheamountofactualsavingsandthemeasurestakentoachievethesavings.Theboardofsupervisorsshallmaintainrecordsforeachworkerretiringpursuanttothissection.Theboardofretirementmayrequiretheboardofsupervisorstoprovideverificationofitscertificationthroughindependentreview.TheboardofsupervisorsshallreportthesecertificationstotheController,whoshouldsummarizethecostandsavingsinformationthereininhisorherannualreportpreparedpursuanttoSections7501through7504.TheControllershallperformapostaudittoverifythatthesavingsequalorexceedthelump-sumactuarialcostoftheadditionalservicecreditgrantedpursuanttothissection.Thecountyshallpaythecostofthepostaudit.

(f)Acountythatelectstomakethepaymentprescribedbysubdivision(a)shallmakethepaymentwithrespecttoalleligibleemployeeswhoretireduringtheperiodspecifiedbytheboardofsupervisors.

(g)Thissectionshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberotherwiseeligibleifthememberreceives any unemployment insurance payments during the period six months prior to the periodspecifiedpursuanttosubdivision(a).Thissectionshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberifthememberisnoteligibletoretirewithouttheadditionalcreditavailableunderthissection.

(h)Thissectionshallnotbeapplicableinanycountyuntilitisadoptedbyordinanceoftheboardofsupervisors.Anycountymayadoptorreadoptthissectionfromtimetotimeasconditionswarrant.

(i)Anymemberwhoqualifiesunderthissectionuponsubsequentreentrytocountyemploymentshallforfeittheservicecreditacquiredunderthissection,unlessthereentryisaresultofatemporarycallbackpursuanttoSection31680.2,31680.3,or31680.6.AnymemberwhoreceivescreditunderthissectionshallnotbetemporarilyemployedasanannuitantpursuanttoSection31680.2,31680.3,or31680.6forfiveyearsfollowingthedateofretirement.

(j)TheboardofsupervisorsshallcertifytotheretirementboardthatthecountyhascompliedwithSection7507.

(k)ThissectionshallnotbesubjecttoChapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1.

(l)NoadditionalservicecreditshallbegrantedpursuanttothissectiononorafterJuly1,1999.

(AddedbyStats.1994,Ch.540(SB1488),Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.1997,Ch.458(SB1192),Sec.2,EffectiveSeptember23,1997,asan

urgency statute)

§31641.1. Contributions and credit for prior public serviceAmemberwhowasinpublicservicebeforebecomingamembermayelectbywritten

noticefiledwiththeboardtomakecontributionspursuanttoSection31641.2andtoreceivecreditintheretirementsystemforallallowedpublicservicetime.Creditforpart-timeserviceshallbecalculatedasprovidedinSection31641.5.


Article7,§31641.05.-§31641.1. 160

§31641.2. Amount of contributions by member previously in public serviceAnymemberoftheretirementsystemwhoelectspursuanttoSection31641.1tomake

contributionsandreceivecreditasservicefortimeforwhichheorsheclaimscreditbecauseofpublicserviceshallcontributetotheretirementfund,priortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement,bylumpsumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceedfiveyears,anamountequaltothesumof:

(a)Twicethecontributionsheorshewouldhavemadetotheretirementfundifheorshehadbeenamemberduringthesamelengthoftimeasthatforwhichheorshehaselectedtoreceivecreditasservice,computedbyapplyingtherateofcontributionfirstapplicabletohimorheruponcommencementofhisorhermembershipinthissystemtothemonthlycompensationfirstearnablebyhimorheratthetimeasprovidedinSection31641.3,multipliedbythenumberofmonthsforwhichheorshehaselectedtoreceivecreditforcountyservice,includingtime,ifany,priortotheestablishmentofthesystem,andwhichwillconstitutecurrentserviceunderthissystem.

(b)The“regularinterest”thatwouldhaveaccruedtothemembercontributionsiftheyhadbeenmadeonthedateusedtodetermineonwhatearnablecompensationcontributionspursuanttothissectionshallbebased,fromthatdateuntilthecompletionofpaymentofthosecontributions,computedatthecurrentinterestrate.

(c)ExceptasprohibitedbySection31640.7,thegoverningbodybyafour-fifthsvotemayprovidethatitshallmakeonbehalfofofficersandemployeeseligibletoreceivecreditforpriorserviceunderthischapter,andwhosoelectpriortofilinganapplicationforretirement,partofthecontributionsspecifiedinparagraphs(a)and(b)ofthissection.Thecontributionsmadebyagovernmentalagencypursuanttothissectionshallbeavailableonlyforpurposesofretirementforserviceorfordisabilityandamemberresigningfromcountyserviceshallbeentitledtowithdrawonlythatportionofhisorheraccumulatedcontributionsmadebyhimorher.


§31641.20. Prior service; lump-sum or installment payments; regular interest; public agency contributions; counties of third class (San Diego)AnymemberoftheretirementsystemwhoelectspursuanttoSection31641.1tomake

contributionsandreceivecreditasservicefortimeforwhichheorsheclaimscreditbecauseofpublicserviceshallcontributetotheretirementfund,priortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement,bylump-sumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceedfiveyears,anamountequaltothesumof:

(a)Twicethecontributionsheorshewouldhavemadetotheretirementfundifheorshehadbeenamemberduringthesamelengthoftimeasthatforwhichheorshehaselectedtoreceivecreditasservice,computedbyapplyingtherateofcontributionatthetimeoftheelectiontothemonthlycompensationearnablebyhimorheratthetimeoftheelectionpursuanttoSection31641.1,multipliedbythenumberofmonthsforwhichheorshehaselectedtoreceivecreditforcountyservice,includingtime,ifany,priortotheestablishmentofthesystem,andwhichwillconstitutecurrentserviceunderthissystem.

(b)The“regularinterest”whichwouldhaveaccruedtothemembercontributionsiftheyhadbeenmadeonthedateusedtodetermineonwhatearnablecompensationcontributionspursuanttothissectionshallbebased,fromthatdateuntilthecompletionofpaymentofthosecontributions,computedatthecurrentinterestrate.

(c)Thegoverningbodybyafour-fifthsvotemayprovidethatitshallmakeonbehalfofofficersandemployeeseligibletoreceivecreditforpriorserviceunderthischapter,andwhosoelectpriortofilinganapplicationforretirement,partofthecontributionsspecified

Article7,§31641.2.-§31641.20.161

inparagraphs(a)and(b)ofthissection.Thecontributionsmadebyagovernmentalagencypursuanttothissectionshallbeavailableonlyforpurposesofretirementforserviceorfordisabilityandamemberresigningfromcountyserviceshallbeentitledtowithdrawonlythatportionofhisorheraccumulatedcontributionsmadebyhimorher.

(d)Thissectionshallonlyapplyincountiesofthethirdclass,asestablishedbySections28020and28024,asamendedbyChapter1204ofStatutesof1971,butitshallnotapplyinthosecountiesunlessanduntilitisadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31641.21. Regular interest, defined for purpose of Section 31641.2Regularinterestcomputedatthecurrentinterestrateasusedinsubdivision(b)of

Section31641.2shallmeanthatamountofinterestwhichwouldhavebeencreditedtotheaccountofthememberontheamounttobedepositedattheinterestratesestablishedforthesystemifthecontributionrequiredbythatsectionhadbeenondepositfromthedateusedtodeterminetheearnablecompensationonwhichsuchcontributionsarebaseduntiltheamountrequiredtobedepositedhasbeenpaid.


§31641.3. Compensation first earnableInSection31641.2compensationfirstearnableshallbethatearnablebythemember

atthetimeofthecommencementofhismembershipintheretirementsystem,exceptthatifamemberwho,priortoJanuary1,1952,wasamemberofanyretirementsysteminthesamecountywhichwassupersededbyasystemestablishedunderthisact,ifsuchmembersorequests,thecompensationfirstearnablebyhimatthelaterofthefollowingtimesshallbeused:

(a)Thecommencementofhismembershipinsuchsupersededretirementsystem.(b)Thedateonwhichthisretirementsystemfirstbecameoperative.(AddedbyStats.1955,Ch.363,Sec.7)

§31641.4. Public service credits; certification; prior employment credits of safety membersAmembershallreceivecreditforemploymentinpublicserviceonlyforsuchservice

asheisnotentitledtoreceiveapensionorretirementallowancefromsuchpublicagency.Theserviceforwhichheelectstocontributeandthefactthatnopensionorretirementallowancewillaccruetosuchmemberbyvirtueofhisemploymentinsuchpublicagencymustbecertifiedtobyanofficerofthepublicagencywhereherenderedsuchpublicserviceormustbeestablishedtothesatisfactionoftheboard.

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,asafetymemberwhoreceivescreditforprioremploymentinpublicservice,theprincipaldutiesofwhichconsistedofactivelawenforcementoractivefiresuppression,oractiveserviceinthearmedservicesoftheUnitedStatesduringthetimeofwarornationalemergency,shallhavehispensionorretirementallowanceforsuchservicecalculatedonthesamebasisasthecalculationoftheretirementallowancesuchmemberwouldreceiveasasafetymemberunderSection31664.

Asafetymemberwhoenteredtheserviceasapeaceofficerpriortotheestablishmentofthesafetymembershipprovisionsinhiscountyshallbeconsideredasafetymemberfromhisinitialhiringdate,forthepurposesofthissection,notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw.


§31641.45. Refund of amount deposited plus interest; no credit received for public serviceWheneveramemberisentitledtoredepositfundspreviouslywithdrawnfroma

retirementsystemandtherebybecomeseligibletoreceiveapensionorretirementallowance

Article7,§31641.20.-§31641.45. 162

fortheserviceforwhichhewasgrantedpublicservicecreditasauthorizedinSection31641.1,regardlessofwhetherornotthememberelectstoexercisesuchentitlement,themembershallberefundedtheamountdepositedbyhiminaccordancewithSection31641.2plusinterestwhichhasbeencreditedtosuchamountandshallreceivenocreditinthesystemforsuchservice.

ThissectionappliesonlytoamemberwhowouldbeeligibletoreceivethebenefitofSection31835or20023.1onmakingtheredeposit.


§31641.5. Credit for prior nonmembership service; election; payment of additional contributions; lump sum paymentAmemberwhopriortohisentranceintotheretirementsystemheldapositionin

thecountyservicethetenureofwhichwassuchastoexcludehimfrommembership,oracoroner,publicadministratororcoroner-publicadministratorwhowasexcludedbecauseofthemeansbywhichhewascompensated,shallhavetherighttoreceivecreditintheretirementassociation for all or any part of the county service he rendered, whether interrupted or not, duringthetimehewasincountyservicebeforebecomingamemberifheelectstopay,andthereafter pays, in accordance with such election, and prior to retirement, into the retirement fundanamountequaltothecontributionshewouldhavemadetotheretirementfundifhehadbeenamemberduringthetimeforwhichhehaselectedtoreceivecredit,computedbyapplyingthecontributionratefirstapplicabletohimuponbecomingamembertotheaggregate compensation he actually received during the time he was in county service and for which he has elected to receive credit, together with interest at the current rate on that amount fromthetimehebecameamemberuntilcompletionofpayment.Suchpaymentmaybemadebylumpsumorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceedthelengthoftimeforwhichthememberhaselectedtoreceivecredit,insuchmannerandatsuchtimesastheboardmaybyruleprescribe.Nomembershallreceivecreditunderthissectionforanyserviceforwhichhehasnotcompletedpaymentpursuanttothissectionbeforetheeffectivedateofhisretirement.Amemberwhohaselectedtomakesuchpaymentininstallmentsmaycompletepaymentthereofbylumpsumatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisretirement.Anysumspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredtobeandadministeredasnormalcontributionsbythemember.

Wherecountyservicepriortomembershipwasrenderedonapart-timebasis,themembermayreceivecreditforsuchproportionofthetimeheheldthepart-timepositionasthetimehewasactuallyengagedintheperformanceofthedutiesofsuchpositionbearstothetimerequiredtoperformthesamedutiesinafull-timeposition.

Amemberwhoelectstoreceivecreditforonlyapartofsuchcountyserviceshallelectthat county service latest in time and may not receive credit for any portion of such county servicepriorintimetoanycountyserviceforwhichhedoesnotelecttoreceivecredit.


§31641.51. “Interest at the current rate” defined“Interestatthecurrentrate”meanstheamountofinterestwhichwouldhavebeen

creditedtotheaccountofthememberontheamounttobedepositedattheinterestratesestablishedforthesystemifthecontributionrequiredbythatsectionhadbeenondepositfromthetimehebecameamemberofthesystemuntiltheamountrequiredtobedepositedhasbeenpaid.


Article7,§31641.45.-§31641.51.163

§31641.55. Purchase of service credit in event of closure, downsizing, or realignment; Payment; Definitions; Applicability(a)AmemberdescribedinSection31470.4whowasinpublicservicebeforebecoming

amember,andthatservicewasterminatedasaconsequenceoftheclosure,downsizing,orrealignmentofafederalmilitaryinstallation,mayelectbywrittennoticefiledwiththeboardtomakecontributionspursuanttosubdivision(b)andtoreceivecreditintheretirementsystemforallallowedpublicservicetime.

(b)Anymemberdescribedinsubdivision(a)whoelectspursuanttosubdivision(a)tomakecontributionsandreceiveservicecreditfortimeforwhichheorsheclaimscreditbecauseofpublicserviceshallcontributetotheretirementfund,priortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement,bylump175sumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceed10years,anamountequaltothesumofthefollowing:

(1)Thecontributionsheorshewouldhavemadetotheretirementfundifheorshehadbeenamemberduringthesamelengthoftimeasthatforwhichheorshehaselectedtoreceiveservicecredit,computedbyapplyingtherateofcontributionfirstapplicabletohimorheruponcommencementofhisorhermembershipinthissystemtothemonthlycompensationfirstearnablebyhimorheratthetime,multipliedbythenumberofmonthsforwhichheorshehaselectedtoreceiveservicecreditforpublicservice.

(2)Interestatthecurrentrate,asdefinedinSection31641.51,fromthedateofhisorherfirstmembershipinthesystemuntilthecompletionofpaymentofthosecontributions.

(c)Thegoverningbodybyamajorityvotemayprovidethatitshallmakepartofthecontributionsspecifiedinparagraphs(1)and(2)ofsubdivision(b)onbehalfofitsmemberseligibletoreceivecreditforpublicserviceunderthissectionwhosoelectpriortofilinganapplicationforretirement.

(d)Amemberwhohaselectedtomakethepaymentininstallmentsmaycompletepaymentbylumpsumatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.Anycontributionsmadebyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredandadministeredasnormalcontributionsbythemember.

(e)Forpurposesofthissection,thefollowingdefinitionsshallapply:(1)NotwithstandingSection31478,“publicagency”meanstheUnitedStatesof

America,thisstate,oranydepartmentoragencyofeither,oranycity,county,cityandcounty,specialdistrict,orotherpublicormunicipalcorporationorpoliticalsubdivisionthatiswithinthisstateorissituatedinwholeorinpartwithinacounty.

(2)NotwithstandingSections31479,31479.2,and31479.3,“publicservice”meansserviceasapermanentcareercivilianfederalfirefighterorpermanentcareerstatefirefighterinapositionwhoseprincipaldutiesconsistofactivefiresuppressionorlawenforcement,forwhichtheofficeroremployeereceivedcompensationfromthepublicagency,andwithrespectto which he or she is not entitled to receive credit in any retirement system supported wholly or inpartbypublicfundsafterheorshebecomesamemberofthissystem.

(f)Thissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyordistrictbeginningonthefirstdayofthemonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsforthatcountyorthegoverningbodyofadistrictadoptsaresolution,bymajorityvote,thatprovidesthatthissectionshallapplytothecountyordistrict.


§31641.56. Credit for prior county service while on deferred status; election; contributions; lump sum payment; contingent operationAmemberwhoreturnstocountyserviceafterhavingbeenondeferredstatuswhile

renderingcountyserviceinapositionexcludedfrommembership,shallhavetherightto

Article7,§31641.55.-§31641.56. 164

receive credit in the retirement association for all or any part of the county service he or she rendered during the time he or she was on deferred status if he or she elects to pay, and thereafter pays, in accordance with the election, and prior to retirement, into the retirement fundanamountequaltothecontributionsheorshewouldhavemadetotheretirementfundifheorshehadnotbeenondeferredstatusduringthetimeforwhichheorshehaselectedtoreceivecredit,computedbyapplyingthecontributionratefirstapplicabletohimorheruponreturning to county service to the aggregate compensation he or she actually received during the time he or she was in county service and for which he or she has elected to receive credit, together with regular interest on that amount from the time he or she was on deferred status untilcompletionofpayment.Thepaymentmaybemadebylumpsumorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceedthelengthoftimeforwhichthememberhaselectedtoreceivecredit,inthemannerandatthetimesastheboardmaybyruleprescribe.Nomembershall receive credit under this section for any service for which he or she has not completed paymentpursuanttothissectionbeforetheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.Amemberwhohaselectedtomakepaymentininstallmentsmaycompletepaymentbylumpsumatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.Anysumspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredtobeadministeredasnormalcontributionsbythemember.

Amemberwhoelectstoreceivecreditforonlyapartofthatcountyserviceshallelectthat county service latest in time and may not receive credit for any portion of that county serviceforwhichheorshedoesnotelecttoreceivecredit.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilthetimethattheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinthecounty.


§31641.6. Assumption by county of functions of city; credit for prior service for city; election; operative date of sectionAnemployeeofacitywhohasbecomeacountyemployeeupontheassumptionby

the county of the functions of the city department in which he was employed, may, if he is notcoveredbythecityunderacontractwiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,electto receive credit in the county retirement system for service for the city prior to the cessation ofhisemploymentbythecity.Whensuchpersonelectstoreceivecredit,membershipintheretirementsystemshallcommencewiththefirstdayofthemonthinwhichcreditisgranted.

Anysuchpersonshallbeentitledtocreditinthecountyretirementsystemforserviceperformedforthecitywhenandif(a)theboardofretirementreceivescertificationfromthecityofthecityserviceandearnablecompensationoftheemployee;and(b)theemployeedepositsintotheemployees’retirementsystemtheamountofcontributionshewouldhavemadehadhebeenacountyemployeeduringhiscityemployment;and(c)thereisalsodepositedintheemployees’retirementsystembythecity,theemployee,orboth,theamountthatthecountywouldhavebeenrequiredtodeposittotheemployees’retirementfundbasedonthecitysalarypaidtosuchemployee.

Upondepositofsuchfunds,theemployee’sageatentryshallbeconsideredtobehisage at time of employment with the city or at the time this chapter was effective in the county whicheverislater.Suchmoneydepositedunder(b)aboveshallbeconsideredasaccumulatednormalcontributionsoftheemployeeandanysuchmoneydepositedunder(c)aboveshallbeconsideredascontributionsoftheemployercounty.

Ifallthemoneycalledforunder(b)aboveisnotpaidwithin90daysafteremploymentbythecounty,onlythepartofcityemploymentlatestindatecoveredbysuchdepositshallbecreditedandtheageatentryandtheamountunder(c)aboveshallbeadjustedaccordingly.

Article7,§31641.56.-§31641.6.165

Anemployeeshallreceivecreditforcityemploymentpriortohisemploymentbythecounty only for such service for which he is not entitled to receive a pension or retirement from suchcity.

Thissectionshallbecomeoperativeinanycountyonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsadoptsbyfour-fifthsvotearesolutionmakingitoperativeinthecounty.


§31641.7. Rate of compensation to be used by member unable to furnish information required for purposes of section 31641.5Ifthememberisunabletofurnishtheinformationnecessarytoestablishhisaggregate

compensationfortheperiodofserviceforwhichheseekscreditpursuanttoSection31641.5,thentherateofcompensationapplicabletohimatthetimehefirstbecameamemberofthissystemaftertheperiodtobecreditedshallbeusedinmakingthecomputationrequiredbySection31461.5.


§31641.8. Installment payments; lump sum paymentAnymemberwhohaselectedtomakecontributionspursuanttothischapterby

installment payments may, at any time prior to the effective date of his retirement, complete paymentthereofbylumpsum.

(AddedbyStats.1955.Ch.363,Sec.9)

§31641.9. Treatment of contributions; matching by countyAllcontributionsmadebyamember,pursuanttoSections31641.1,31641.2,31641.3and

31641.4shallbeconsideredtobe,andshallbeadministeredas,normalcontributionsbutshallnotbematchedbythecountyuponretirementofthemember.


§31641.95. Applicability of certain sectionsSections31470.7,31478,31479,31480,31641.1,31641.2,31641.3,31641.4,31641.8,and

31641.9mayonlybeapplicableinanycountyordistrictonthefirstdayofthemonthafterthegoverningboardofsuchcountyordistrictadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthosesectionsshallbecomeapplicableinsuchcountyordistrict.SuchresolutionmaylimittheapplicabilityofsuchsectionstoanyoneormoreofthepublicagenciesasdefinedbySection31478.

Atanytimeaftersucharesolutionhasbeenadopted,thegoverningboardofthecountyordistrict,bymajorityvote,mayadoptafurtherresolutiondeclaringthatfromandafterafuturedatestatedfurtherintheresolution,thebenefitsoftheresolutiondescribedinthefirstparagraphofthissectionshallnotbeavailabletoanyemployeeswhoarehiredbythecountyordistrictafterthatdate.


§31641.96. Prior service contributions in counties with specified retirement formulasNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthischapter,Section31641.9shallnotbe

applicabletoanycountysubjecttotheprovisionsofSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.12,31676.13,31676.14,or31676.15.


Article7,§31641.6.-§31641.96. 166

§31641.97. Credit for prior military service; application and purpose of section (San Mateo)(a)Thissectionshallbeapplicableintheretirementsystemofanycountyofthe10th

class,asdefinedbySections28020and28031,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,iftheboardofsupervisorsadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionimplementingthissection.

(b)ThepurposeofthissectionistoauthorizepersonshiredbythecountybeforeJanuary1,1993,andemployedbythecountyonDecember31,1992,toreceivecreditintheretirementsystemforpriormilitaryservicebycontributingtotheretirementsystemanamountequaltothefullcost,includinginterest,oftheemployeeandcountyliabilityfortheadditionalcredit.

(c)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,aneligiblepersonmustmeetthefollowingrequirementsinordertoreceivecreditforpriormilitaryservice:

(1)ThepersonmusthavebeenhiredbythecountybeforeJanuary1,1993,andmusthavebeenanactiveemployeeonDecember31,1992.

(2)ThepersonmustfilewrittennoticewiththeretirementboardbeforeJanuary1,1995,electingtoreceivecreditandprovidingsuchinformationastheboardmayrequire.

(3)Thepersonmustcontributetotheretirementsystempriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement,bylump-sumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceedfiveyears,anamountequaltothefullcost,includinginterest,oftheemployeeandcountyliabilityfortheadditionalcredit.

(4)ThepersonmustnotbeentitledtoreceiveapensionorretirementallowanceforthepriormilitaryserviceandmustprovidethecertificationrequiredbySection31641.4.

(5)ApersonwhowashiredbythecountybeforeJanuary1,1993,whowasactivelyemployedbythecountyonDecember31,1992,andwhoretiredorelecteddeferredretirementafterDecember31,1992,andbeforeDecember31,1993,mayalsoelecttoreceivecreditunderthissectionbyfilingthewrittennoticeandmakingtheentirecontributionbeforeJuly1,1994,lesswhateveradditionalamountswouldhavebeenpaidtothatpersonbytheretirementsystemifthepersonhadmadetheentirecontributionpriortoretirement.

(d)Theboardofsupervisorsmayincludeadditionaltermsandconditionsintheresolution implementing this section, provided the terms and conditions do not include the systempayingforanyoftheemployeeorcountycostofthemilitaryservicecredit.

(e)Thefullcost,includinginterest,oftheemployeeandcountyliabilityfortheadditionalcreditunderthissectionshallbedeterminedbytheboardofretirementonactuarialadvice,andshallbetheactuarialequivalentofthedifferencebetweentheretirementbenefitsthe person will receive after receipt of credit for prior military service under this section and the retirementbenefitsthepersonwouldhavereceivedwithoutthatcredit.

(AddedbyStats.1993,Ch.906(AB557),Sec.2.7)

§31642. Continuity of service; designation of matters not breaking continuityThefollowingshallnotbeconsideredasbreakingthecontinuityofservice:(a)Atemporarylayoffbecauseofillnessorforpurposesofeconomy,suspension,or

dismissal,followedbyreinstatementorre-employmentwithinoneyear.(b)Aleaveofabsencefollowedbyreinstatementorre-employmentwithinoneyearafter

theterminationoftheleaveofabsence.(c)Aresignationtoenter,followedbyentranceinto,thearmedforcesoftheUnited

States,followedbyre-employmentbythecountyordistrictwithinsixmonthsaftertheterminationofsuchservice.

(d)ResignationofamemberwhohaselectedinwritingtocomewithintheprovisionsofArticle9followedbyre-employmentbeforewithdrawalofanyaccumulatedcontributions.

Article7,§31641.97.-§31642.167

Thewithdrawalofaccumulatedcontributionsfollowedbyredepositofthecontributionsuponre-entranceintoservicedoesnotconstituteabreakinthecontinuityofservice.


§31643. “Prior service” definedUnlessotherwiseprovidedintheregulationsoftheboard,“priorservice”meansservice

priortothedateofentryofamemberintotheretirementsystem.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31644. Prior service; regulationsInitsregulationstheboardmayprovidewhatserviceshallconstitutepriorservice.Such

servicemayincludeemploymentwhichisnotserviceasdefinedinSections31641and31642.(AmendedbyStats.1967,Ch.628,Sec.2)

§31645. Credit for prior service; requirementsExceptasprovidedinSections31641.5or31648creditforpriorservice,whether

interruptedornot,shallbegrantedtoeachpersonwhohasrenderedsuchserviceasdefinedinorpursuanttothischapter,andwhohasbecomeamemberoftheretirementsystemwithinoneyearafteritbecomesoperativeoratanytimepriortoOctober1,1953,whicheveristhelater,orwithinsixmonthsafterdischargefrommilitaryservice.

Onewhoperformedserviceotherwisequalifyingforcreditunderthissection,whore-enteredcountyemploymentsubsequenttoSeptember1,1953andpriortoDecember31,1953,shallreceivecreditforsuchservice,subjecttoSection31648,providedsuchpersonisemployed, as of the effective date of this section in a position for which service credit is given underthisarticle.


§31645.5. Prior service; nonprofit corporations operating museums under contracts with counties; county economic development associationsPriorserviceincludesservicerenderedforadistrictasdefinedbysubdivisions(i)and(j)

ofSection31468atanytimeafterthedateofexecutionofthefirstcontractbetweenthecountyandthenonprofitcorporationrelativetotheoperationofoneormoremuseumsorafterthedateofemploymentwiththeeconomicdevelopmentassociation.


§31646. Credit for uncompensated leave of absence for illness; conditionsAmemberwhoreturnstoactiveservicefollowinganuncompensatedleaveofabsence

onaccountofillnessmayreceiveservicecreditfortheperiodofsuchabsenceuponthepaymentofthecontributionsthatthememberwouldhavepaidduringsuchperiod,togetherwiththeinterestthatsuchcontributionswouldhaveearnedhadtheybeenondeposit,ifthememberwasnotabsent.

Thecontributionsmaybepaidinalumpsumormaybepaidonamonthlybasisforaperiodofnotmorethanthelengthoftheperiodforwhichservicecreditisclaimed.Creditmaynotbereceivedforanyperiodofsuchabsenceinexcessof12consecutivemonths.

(Addedbystats.1977,Ch.975,Sec.1)

§31646.1. Return to active service; service credit for period following that in which member received temporary disability benefits; conditionsAmemberwhoreturnstoactiveservicefollowinganuncompensatedleaveofabsence

Article7,§31642.-§31646.1. 168

onaccountofillnessorinjuryarisingoutofandinthecourseofemploymentwhichexceeds12consecutivemonthsandforwhichthememberreceivestemporarydisabilitybenefitspursuanttotheLaborCodeduringtheabsencemayreceiveservicecreditforthefullperiodinexcessof12consecutivemonthsduringwhichthememberreceivedtemporarydisabilitybenefitspursuanttotheLaborCodeuponthepaymentofthecontributionswhichthememberwouldhavepaidduringthatperiod,togetherwiththeinterestwhichthecontributionswouldhaveearnedhadtheybeenondeposit,ifthememberwasnotabsent,provided,thatthememberhasrenderedsufficientservice,otherthantheserviceforwhichcreditinexcessof12consecutivemonthsistobepurchasedpursuanttothissection,tomeettheminimumservicecreditrequirementsforbenefits.Thecontributionsmaybepaidinalumpsumormaybepaidonamonthlybasisforaperiodofnotmorethanthelengthoftheperiodforwhichservicecreditisclaimed.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makethissectionapplicableinthecounty.


§31646.5. Service credit for uncompensated leave(a)Amemberwhowishestoapplyforanonservice-connecteddisabilityretirement

allowancemay,totheextentnecessarytoqualifyforthatallowance,receiveservicecreditforaperiodofcontinuous,uncompensatedleaveimmediatelyprecedingthefilingoftheapplicationupon satisfaction of all of the following:

(1)Thememberhasexhaustedallcompensatedleave,includinganycatastrophicleavetowhichthemembermaybeeligible.

(2)Theleaveofabsencewasduetothemember’smedicalconditionthathasbeendeterminedbytheboardtobeaterminalillness.

(3)Paymentbythememberofthecontributionsthememberwouldhavepaidduringtheleaveofabsence,togetherwithinterestthosecontributionswouldhaveearnedhadtheybeenondepositifthememberwerenotabsent.Thecontributionsmaybepaidinalumpsum,ormaybepaidonamonthlybasisforaperiodofnotmorethanthelengthoftheperiodforwhichservicecreditisclaimed;provided,however,thatpaymentshallbecompletedpriortotheeffectivedateofthemember’sretirement,orinaccordancewithSection31485.7or31485.8ifeithersectionhasbeenadoptedbytheboardofsupervisors.

(b)Creditmaynotbereceivedpursuanttothissectionforaperiodinexcessof12consecutivemonths.

(c)Thissectionshallnotapplyinanycountyunlessanduntilitisadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31647. Time not in service not creditedApersonisnotentitledtocreditaspriorservicefortimeduringwhichhewasnotin

serviceasdefinedinthischapter.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31648. Conditions for prior service credit of persons subsequently electing membershipIfanyofficeroremployeenotpreviouslyincludedwithinthefieldofmembershipof

theassociationisbroughtwithinthefieldofmembershiporifanyelectedofficialchoosestocomewithinthefieldofmembershipsubsequenttotheestablishmentoftheassociation,heshall not receive credit for service or for prior service unless either (1) he elects to and does pay

Article7,§31646.1.-§31648.169

into the association within one year thereafter, or within such longer time as is provided in the regulationsoftheboard,andbeforeanapplicationforretirementisfiled,anamountequaltothecontributionshewouldhavemadeifhehadbeenamemberoftheassociationfromthedateofitsorganization,orfromthedateofhisentryintocountyservice,whicheveristhelater,togetherwithregularinterestthereonor(2)thegoverningbody,byafour-fifthsvote,providesthatitshallmake,onbehalfofallsuchofficersoremployeeseligibletoreceivecreditforpriorserviceunderthissectionandwhosoelectsubsequenttotheeffectivedateoftheamendmenttothissectionatthe1963SessionoftheLegislature,allorapartofthecontributionstotheassociationthattheofficeroremployeewouldberequiredtomakeforhispriorservice,exceptthatthecontributionsmadebythegovernmentalagencypursuanttothissectionshallbeavailableonlyforthepurposeofretirementforserviceorfordisabilityandamemberresigningfromcountyserviceshallbeentitledtowithdrawonlythatportionofhisaccumulatedcontributionsmadebyhim.


§31648.2. Transfer of firefighting services to district participating in county retirement system; apportionment of liability between two retirement systemsInanycountyinwhichtheboardofsupervisorshasenteredintoanagreementas

permittedbySection20569.1,thegoverningbodyofthecontractingagencyfromwhichthefiremenweretransferredorthegoverningbodyofthedistricttowhichthefiremenweretransferredmaypayallorpartofthecost,asdeterminedbytheboard,oftheliabilitieswhichwereassumedbythecountysystemunderSection20569andwhichexceedthevalueofthecashorsecuritiesorbothtransferredbythePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemtothecountysystem.Thegoverningbodiesofthecontractingagencyandofthedistrictmaydeterminetheproportionoftheliabilitieseachpays.


§31648.3. Full-time employee returned to work after layoff; service credit for period of absence; operative provisions of sectionAmemberwhoisafull-timeemployeeandreturnswithin12monthsofthedateof

layofftofull-timeservicefollowingaperiodoflayoffcommencingonorafterJanuary1,1981,butnottoexceed12months,mayreceiveservicecreditfortheperiodoftheabsence,butnottoexceedoneyear,uponthepaymentofthecontributionsthatthememberwouldhavepaidduringthatperiod,togetherwiththeinterestthatthecontributionswouldhaveearnedhadtheybeenondeposit,ifthememberwasnotabsent.Thecontributionsmaybepaidinlumpsumormaybepaidonamonthlybasisforaperiodofnotmorethanthelengthoftheperiodforwhichservicecreditisclaimed.Theservicecreditprovidedbythissectionshallbeprovidedonly to persons who have returned to employment under the procedures of the employer for returninglaid-offemployeestoworkandshallnotexceedoneyearofservicecreditforeachlayoffperiod.Thedecisionofthemembertoredepositwithdrawncontributionsshallbemadewithinfiveyearsfromthedatethememberisrehiredortheeffectivedateoftheadoptionbythecountyboardofsupervisorsofthissection.Uponcompletionoftheredepositwithinterest,theentryageofthemembershallbeadjustedtotheoriginalageofentryandmembershipisreestablishedtothatdate.



Article7,§31648.-§31648.3. 170

§31648.4. Cost of liabilities assumed by county after termination; paymentInanycountyinwhichtheboardofsupervisorshasenteredintoanagreementas

permittedbySection20569.2,thegoverningbodyofthecontractingagencyfromwhichtheemployeesweretransferredorthegoverningbodyofthedistrictorthecountyserviceareatowhichtheemployeesweretransferredmaypayallorpartofthecost,asdeterminedbytheboard,oftheliabilitieswhichwereassumedbythecountysystemunderSection20569andwhichexceedthevalueofthecashorsecuritiesofbothtransferredbythePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemtothecountysystem.

Thegoverningbodiesofthecontractingagencyandofthedistrictorthecountyserviceareamaydeterminetheproportionoftheliabilitieseachpays.

(AddedbyrenumberingSection31648.3(asaddedbyStats.1984,Ch.1403)byStats.1986,Ch.248,Sec.85)

§31648.5. Conditions for prior service credit of elective officersAnyelectiveofficer(a)whohasfiledadeclarationofelectiontobecomeamemberofa

countyretirementassociationestablishedpursuanttothischapterand(b)whorenderedanycountyserviceaftertheeffectivedateofthesystemsoestablishedandpriortotheeffectivedateofhismembershipintheassociationand(c)whowouldnototherwisebeentitledtocreditforsuchservice,shallbeentitledtocreditforsuchserviceascurrentserviceifhecontributestotheretirementassociationthecontributionswhichhewouldhavemadeifhehadbeenamemberof the association during the time such service was rendered, together with regular interest thereon.


§31648.55. Credit for previous as current service; elective officer with break in service; conditionsAnymemberwhoisanelectiveofficer,andwhohashadabreakinservice,mayreceive

credit for the previous service as current service, if all of the following conditions are met:(a)Thememberservesinthesameoffice.(b)Theserviceisnotabasisforanyotherpresentorfuturepublicretirementbenefits.(c)Themember,priortotheeffectivedateofretirement,bylump-sumpaymentorby

installmentoveraperiodnottoexceedfiveyears,(1)contributesanamountequaltotwicethecontributionsthememberswouldhavemadetotheretirementfundifthememberhadbeenamemberduringthesamelengthoftimeasthatforwhichthememberhaselectedtoreceivecreditasservice,computedbyapplyingtherateofcontributionfirstapplicabletothememberuponcommencementofmembershipand(2)paysanyinterestthatwouldhaveaccruedtothatamount.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycounty,untiladoptedbytheresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31648.6. Fractional monthAnyelectiveofficerwhosetermofofficeexpiresatatimewhenthetotalperiodofhis

incumbencydividedintomonthsresultsinafractionalmonthgreaterthan20daysshallbedeemedtohaverenderedservicesufficienttoreceivecreditforafullmonthprovidedthatsuchofficercontributestotheretirementassociationpriortothereceiptofthefirstpaymentofhisretirementallowancethecontributionsrequiredforthatmonth.


Article7,§31648.4.-§31648.6.171

§31649. Service with armed forces; election to discontinue contributions; reentering county service(a)AnymemberwhoresignstoenteranddoesenterthearmedforcesoftheUnited

Statesonavoluntaryorinvoluntarybasis,andwithin90daysaftertheterminationofthatserviceunderhonorableconditions,reenterscountyservice,or

(b)AnymemberwhoobtainsaleaveofabsencetoenteranddoesenterthearmedforcesoftheUnitedStatesonavoluntaryorinvoluntarybasis,andwithinoneyearaftertheterminationunderhonorableconditionsofleaveofabsencereenterscountyservice,ifheorshehasnotcontributedtotheretirementfundthetotalpercentageofhisorhercompensationearnableduepursuanttoSection31461underthischapterfortheentireperiodduringwhichheorshewasoutofcountyserviceandinmilitaryservice,may,notmorethan90daysafterhisorherreentranceintocountyservice,filewiththeboardhisorherelectionthatnofurthercontributionsbedeductedfromhisorhercompensationexceptcontributionsduebecauseofcurrentservice.

(c)Amemberwhoreenterscountyserviceundereither(a)or(b)abovemaybealloweduptofiveyearscreditforvestinginthesystem.


§31649.1. Reemployment of member; notification to system; notification of right to purchase service creditAnyemployerwhoreemploysamemberwhoissubjecttotheprovisionsofChapter

43(commencingwithSection4301)ofTitle38oftheUnitedStatesCode,shall,within30daysafterthedateofthatreemployment,provideinformationinwritingasrequiredbytheboardnotifying the system of that reemployment, and shall provide the returning employee written notificationoftherighttopurchasethatservicecredit.


§31649.5. Service with armed forces; credit for service and prior service; contributions(a)NotwithstandingSection31649,anymemberwhoresigned,orobtainedaleave

ofabsence,toenteranddidenterthearmedforcesoftheUnitedStatesonavoluntaryorinvoluntarybasisandreturnedtocountyservicewithinoneyearafterseparationtherefrom,underhonorableconditions,shallreceivecreditforserviceandpriorserviceforalloranypartofhismilitaryservice,if,beforeretirementfromthecounty,heorshecontributeswhatheorshewouldhavepaidtothefundbasedonhisorhercompensationearnablepursuanttoSection31461atthetimeheorsheresignedorreceivedtheleaveofabsence,togetherwithregularinterestthereon,andif,whenheorshecontributes,themilitaryserviceisnotabasisforpresentorfuturemilitaryretirementpayment.

(b)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisorssoorders.

(AmendedbyStats.1975,Ch.594,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1996,Ch.680,Sec.14)

§31649.6. (Operative date contingent) Service credit for members resigned from county service to enter armed forces(a)NotwithstandingSection31649or31649.5,amemberwhoresignedfromcounty

service,orwhoobtainedaleaveofabsencefromcountyservice,toenteranddidentertheArmedForcesoftheUnitedStatesonavoluntaryorinvoluntarybasisandwhothenreturnedtocountyservicewithinoneyearafterseparationfromtheArmedForcesunderhonorable

Article7,§31649.-§31649.6. 172

conditions, shall receive credit for service and prior service for all or any part of his or her militaryservice,if,beforeretirementfromthecounty,heorshecontributeswhatheorshewouldhavepaidtothefundbasedonhisorhercompensationearnablepursuanttoSection31461atthetimeheorsheresignedorobtainedtheleaveofabsence,togetherwithregularinterestthereon.

(b)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolution,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.


§31650. Deduction of past due contributions from returning service man not making required electionUnlessthereturningmemberreenterstheserviceasanewmemberorfilesanelection

pursuanttoSection31649,thecountyauditororotherofficerchargedwiththedutyofdrawingsalaryorwagewarrantsshalldeductpastduecontributionspursuanttotheregulationsoftheboard,oriftherearenosuchregulationspursuanttothischapter.Thefilingofanelectionshallapplyonlytosalaryorwagewarrantsdelivered30ormoredaysafterthefilingofanelection,andnodeductionlegallymadeshallberefundedbecauseofanelection.


§31651. Deduction of current contributions from pay of returning memberIfthereturningmemberfilesanelectionpursuanttoSection31649,theauditoror

otherofficerchargedwiththedutyofdrawingsalaryorwagewarrantsshalldeductcurrentcontributionsonlyfromsalaryorwagewarrantsdelivered30ormoredaysafterthefilingoftheelection.Membercontributionsshallbecalculateduponthebasisoftheageofthememberuponhisorherfirstentryintotheretirementsystem.

(AmendedbyStats.1992,Ch.132(SB1508),Sec.1,EffectiveJanuary1,1993)

§31652. Eligibility for benefits on repayment of amounts withdrawn or fulfilling other conditions on re-entry into retirement system(a)Anymembermayredepositintheretirementfund,priortofilinganapplication

forretirement,bylumpsumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodofoneyearorforalongertimeuponapprovaloftheboard,anamountequaltoalloftheaccumulatednormalcontributionswhichhehaswithdrawn,plusregularinterestthereonfromthedateofseparationfromtheretirementsystem,andhismembershipisthesameasifunbrokenbysuchtermination.Exceptasprovidedinthissectionhisrateofcontributionshallbebasedonageatthenearestbirthdayattimeofreentranceintothesystem.Ifhedoesnotredepositalloftheaccumulatednormalcontributionspreviouslywithdrawnheshallbeconsideredasanewmemberwithoutcreditforanypreviousservice.

“Regularinterest”asusedinthissectionshallmeanthatamountofinterestwhichwouldhavebeencreditedtotheaccountofthememberontheamounttobedepositedattheinterestratesestablishedforthesystemifthecontributionsrequiredbythissectionhadbeenondepositfromthedateofseparationfromtheretirementsystemuntiltheamountrequiredtobedepositedhasbeenpaid.

(b)AnymemberwholeftcountyserviceonorbeforeDecember31,1971,andthereafteragainbecameamemberofthecountysystemwhichheleftand(1)whodidnotwithdrawhisaccumulatednormalcontributionsor(2)whoelectedtoleavehisaccumulatednormalcontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700),or(3)whoredepositedorredepositswithdrawnaccumulatednormalcontributionsplusinterestasauthorizedinthissection,shallbeeligibleforallbenefitsgrantedamemberenteringa

Article7,§31649.6.-§31652.173

reciprocalretirementsystemunderArticle15(commencingwithSection31830),includingthebenefitsgrantedtomemberswholefttheiraccumulatedcontributionsondepositorwhoredepositedtheiraccumulatedcontributionspursuanttoSection31831.1.ThisparagraphshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberenteringserviceafterDecember31,1977.

(c)AnymemberwholeftcountyserviceonorafterJanuary1,1972,andwhowithin90daysthereafteragainbecameamemberofthecountysystemwhichheleftand(1)whodidnotwithdrawhisaccumulatednormalcontributions,or(2)whoelectedtoleavehisaccumulatednormalcontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700),or(3)whoredepositsorredepositedhiswithdrawnaccumulatednormalcontributionsplusinterestasauthorizedbySection31652within180daysafterleavingcountyservice,shallbeeligibleforallbenefitsgrantedamemberenteringareciprocalretirementsystemunderArticle15(commencingwithSection31830),exceptthatSection31831.1shallnotapplytosuchmembers.

(d)Thissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoareretiredorwhoarenotinserviceofanemployermakinghimamemberofthissystem.


§31652.1. Redeposit of withdrawn normal contributions; regular interest; election not to withdraw or to leave contributions on deposit; applicability of section (Los Angeles)(a)Anymembermayredepositintheretirementfund,priortofilinganapplication

forretirement,bylump-sumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodofoneyearorforalongertimeuponapprovaloftheboard,anamountequaltoalloftheaccumulatednormalcontributionswhichhehaswithdrawn,plusregularinterestthereonfromthedateofseparationfromtheretirementsystem,andhismembershipisthesameasifunbrokenbysuchtermination.Exceptasprovidedinthissectionhisrateofcontributionshallbebasedonageatthenearestbirthdayattimeofreentranceintothesystem.Ifhedoesnotredepositalloftheaccumulatednormalcontributionspreviouslywithdrawnheshallbeconsideredasanewmemberwithoutcreditforanypreviousservice.

“Regularinterest”asusedinthissectionshallmeanthatamountofinterestwhichwouldhavebeencreditedtotheaccountofthememberontheamounttobedepositedattheinterestratesestablishedforthesystemifthecontributionsrequiredbythissectionhadbeenondepositfromthedateofseparationfromtheretirementsystemuntiltheamountrequiredtobedepositedhasbeenpaid.

(b)AnymemberwholeftcountyserviceonorbeforeDecember31,1974,andthereafteragainbecameamemberofthecountysystemwhichheleftand(1)whodidnotwithdrawhisaccumulatednormalcontributions,or(2)whoelectedtoleavehisaccumulatednormalcontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700),or(3)whoredepositedorredepositswithdrawnaccumulatednormalcontributionsplusinterestasauthorizedinthissection,shallbeeligibleforallbenefitsgrantedamemberenteringareciprocalretirementsystemunderArticle15(commencingwithSection31830),includingthebenefitsgrantedtomemberswholefttheiraccumulatedcontributionsondepositorwhoredepositedtheiraccumulatedcontributionspursuanttoSection31831.1.ThisparagraphshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberenteringserviceafterDecember31,1979.

(c)AnymemberwholeftcountyserviceonorafterJanuary1,1975,andwhowithin90daysthereafteragainbecameamemberofthecountysystemwhichheleftand(1)whodidnotwithdrawhisaccumulatednormalcontributions,or(2)whoelectedtoleavehisaccumulatednormalcontributionsondepositpursuanttoarticle9(commencingwithSection31700),or(3)whoredepositsorredepositedhiswithdrawnaccumulatednormalcontributionsplusinterestasauthorizedbySection31652within180daysafterleavingcountyservice,shallbeeligibleforallbenefitsgrantedamemberenteringareciprocalretirementsystemunderArticle15(commencingwithSection31830),exceptthatSection31831.1shallnotapplytosuchmembers.

Article7,§31652.-§31652.1. 174

(d)Thissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoareretiredorwhoarenotinserviceofanemployermakinghimamemberofthissystem.

(e)Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthefirstclass,asestablishedbySections28020and28022butshallnotbeoperativeinacountyuntiladoptedbyresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31652.2. Credit for prior county retirement system service; reentry by employment with public agency contracting with public employees’ retirement system; redeposit of withdrawn contributions; applicability of section (Los Angeles)(a)Anymemberofaretirementsystemestablishedpursuanttothischapterwhowas

previouslyamemberofthesamecountyretirementsystemandwhothereafterbecameamemberofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemasaresultofemploymentbyapublicagencycontractingwiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,shallreceivecreditinthecountyretirementsystemforservicerenderedasanofficeroremployeeofsuchpublicagencyprovidedthatheorshemakesthecontributionsspecifiedbySection31641.2,andprovidedfurther that he or she is not entitled to receive any other pension or retirement allowance from anypublicagencyforsuchservice.

(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,anypersonwhowouldotherwisequalifyundersubdivision(a)whoelectedtoleavehisorhercontributionsondepositwiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemandreceivethebenefitsofreciprocity,mayrescindthatelectionandwithdrawhisorhercontributionsplusaccruedinterestfromthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemanddepositthesameinthecountyretirementsystemofwhichheorsheisamemberaspaymentinfullorinpartfortheservicecreditdescribedinthissection.ThepersonshallnotthereafterhavetherighttoredepositthewithdrawncontributionsinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemortoreceiveanycreditforsuchserviceinthatsystem.Anymemberofacountyretirementsystemwhoiseligibletoreceivecreditforotherpublicservicepursuanttothissectionshallreceivethebenefitofanymotionorresolutionadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorspursuanttosubdivision(c)ofSection31641.2whichwasineffectduringthemember’scountyservice.

(c)Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthefirstclass,asestablishedbySections28020and28022,butshallnotbeoperativeinacountyuntiladoptedbyresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31653. Contributions by governing board for member reentering public service after absence in military service; credit for military service timeNotwithstandingtheprovisionsofthisarticle,thegoverningboardofthecountyor

districtmayelecttocontributeforanymemberofthissystemwhoisabsentfromandreenterstheserviceofthecountyordistrictpursuanttoSection31649ofthiscode,amountsequaltothecontributionswhichhavebeenmadebythememberandhisemployertothesystemonthebasisofhiscompensationearnableatthecommencementofhisabsence,ifhehadnotbeensoabsent.

Ifthegoverningboardelectstomakeanymember’scontributionspursuanttothissection:

(a)Anysuchmemberwhoexercisesordidexercisetherighttocontributetothesystemduringtheperiodofmilitaryserviceshallhavesuchcontributionsrefundedorcreditedtohisaccount.

(b)Anysuchmemberwhowithdrawsorhaswithdrawnhisaccumulatedcontributionsduring his military service and who does not or did not redeposit the amount withdrawn

Article7,§31652.1.-§31653.175

uponhisreturntoemploymentwiththecountyordistrictisentitledtobecreditedwithanycontributionthegoverningboardelectstomake,andtoreceivecreditforserviceduringtheperiodhewasabsentonmilitaryservice,thesameasifhehadnotwithdrawnhisaccumulatedcontributions,andhisrateforfuturecontributionsshallbebaseduponhisageatthecommencementofhisabsenceonmilitaryservice.

(c)Thecontributionsmadebythegoverningboardpursuanttothissectionshallbeavailableonlyforthepurposeofretirementforserviceorfordisability,andshallbemadeavailableonlyforthepurposeofretirement,andamemberresigningfromtheserviceofthecountyordistrictafterreinstatementfrommilitaryserviceshallbeentitledtowithdrawonlythatportionofhisaccumulatedcontributionspersonallymadebyhim.

(d)ThissectionshallberetroactivelyappliedtoextenditsbenefitstosuchmembersofthissystemasthegoverningboardmaydeterminewhoseabsencefromcountyserviceonmilitaryservicecommencedonorafterSeptember16,1940,andwhoreturnorhavereturnedtothisserviceupontheterminationoftheirmilitaryservice.


§31654. Persons reemployed by county after resumption of aid to needy and blind; credit for state serviceWhenever,asaresultoftheresumptionbythecountiespursuanttoArticleXXVIIofthe

Constitution of functions relating to the administration of aid to the aged and aid to the needy blindtheretoforeperformedbythestate,anypersonceasestobeemployedbythestateandisemployedbyacountyinwhichthischapterhasbecomeoperative,thepersonshallbecomeamemberoftheretirementassociationofthecountyimmediatelyuponisentranceintothecountyservice.

AnysuchmemberofacountyretirementsystemshallbeentitledtocreditinthecountyretirementsystemforserviceforwhichhewasentitledtocreditinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystematthetimeofcessationofhisemploymentbythestate,withoutthenecessityofpaymentofanyadditionalcontributionsinrespecttothatservice,whenandif(a)theboardofretirementreceivescertificationfromtheBoardofAdministrationofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemofthestateservicewithwhichthepersonwasentitledtobecreditedbythePublicEmployees’RetirementSystematthetimeofcessationofhisstateemployment;and(b)thereispaidintotheemployees’retirementfundofthecountyanamountequaltothenormalcontributionsofthepersontothePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,togetherwiththeinterestcreditedthereto,whichamountshallbecreditedtotheindividualaccountofthememberinthecountyemployee’sretirementsystem,andshallthereafterforallpurposesbedeemedtobethemember’scontributiontothecountyretirementsysteminrespecttotheservicesocertified;and(c)thereispaidintotheemployees’retirementfundofthecountyanadditionalamountequaltotheamountofsuchnormalcontributions,togetherwith the interest credited thereto, which additional amount shall thereafter for all purposes bedeemedtobethecontributionsoftheemployercountytothecountyretirementsysteminrespecttotheservicesocertified.


§31655. War relocation absence; credit; election to make contributions and interest payments; adoption of section by resolutionAnymembermayreceivecreditforwarrelocationabsenceifthememberelectstopay

anddoespaypriortoretirementintotheretirementfundanamountequaltothecontributionsthememberwouldhavemadetothefundonthemember’scompensationearnableatthetimeoftheabsencetogetherwithregularinterestthereon.

Article7,§31653.-§31655. 176

“Warrelocationabsence”meanstheperiodofabsencefromcountyserviceoccasionedbytheevacuationandrelocationofamemberpursuanttoordersissuedbythecommandingofficeroftheWesternDefensecommandinMarch1942,fortheevacuationofpersonsofJapanesedescentfromsucharea,wherethememberwasincountyserviceonMarch5,1942,andlaterreturnedtocountyservicepriortoJuly1,1947.

Thisserviceshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiladoptedbyresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31656. Orange County Transit District; extension of service credit to employee on authorized leave of absence to serve as official of recognized employee bargaining unit; application to county (Orange)Nothinginthischaptershallbeconstruedtoprohibitanydistrictestablishedpursuant

toPart4(commencingwithSection40000)ofDivision10ofthePublicUtilitiesCode,fromextendingretirementservicecreditpursuanttoSection40127ofthePublicUtilitiesCodetoanyemployeeofthedistrictwhoisonanauthorizedleaveofabsencetoserveasanofficialofarecognizedemployeebargainingunit,underallofthefollowingconditions:

(a)Theemployeeortherecognizedemployeeorganization,orboth,asdeterminedpursuanttoapplicableprovisionsofthispart,agreetopaythetotalcontributionswhichwouldotherwisebepaidiftheemployeewerenotonleave,aswellasanyadditionalcostswhichmayaccruetothesystemasaresultofthisextensionofcoverage.

(b)Themaximumservicecreditaccumulatedunderthissectionshallnotexceed12years.

(c)Employeescoveredunderthissectionshallnotbeeligiblefordisabilitybenefitsunderanypublicemployees’retirementsysteminthisstatewhileonsuchleaveofabsence.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinthecounty.


§31657. Assumption by county or district of safety functions; cessation of city employment; membership in county retirement association (Los Angeles, Orange, Kern)SubjecttoSection20588,whenever,asaresultoftheassumptionbyacounty,fire

authority,ordistrictoffirefightingorlawenforcementfunctionsperformedbyapublicagencyorthestatesubjecttothePublicEmployees’RetirementLaw,anypersonceasestobeemployedbyapublicagencyorthestateandisemployedbyacounty,fireauthority,ordistrictinwhichthischapterhasbecomeoperative,thatpersonshallbecomeamemberoftheretirementsystemofacountyimmediatelyuponenteringcountyservice.ThatmemberofthecountyretirementsystemshallbeentitledtoservicecreditinthecountyretirementsystemfortheserviceforwhichheorshewasentitledtocreditinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystematthetimeofcessationofemploymentbythepublicagencyorthestate,withoutnecessityofpaymentofanyadditionalcontributionsinrespecttothatservice,whenandifallofthefollowingoccur:

(a)TheboardofretirementreceivescertificationfromtheBoardofAdministrationofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemoftheservicewithwhichthepersonwasentitledtobecreditedbythePublicEmployees’RetirementSystematthetimeofcessationofhisorherpublicagencyorstateemployment.

(b)Thereispaidintothecountyretirementfundofthecounty,anamountequaltothenormalcontributionsofthepersontothePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,togetherwithallinterestcreditedthereto,whichamountshallbecreditedtotheindividualaccountofthe

Article7,§31655.-§31657.177

memberinthecountyretirementsystem,andshallthereafterforallpurposesbedeemedtobethemember’scontributiontothecountyretirementsystemwithrespecttotheservicesocertified.

(c)ThereispaidtotheretirementsystemofthecountyanamountequaltoallcontributionsofthepublicagencyorthestatemadetothePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemonaccountofservicerenderedbythepersontogetherwithinterestcreditedtothepublicagencyorthestatethereto.

(d)Theboardofretirementelectstoapplythissectionasaprudentmeansofmitigatingagainstpotentialadversefinancialimpactuponthecountyretirementsystemfromthecostofdisabilityretirementsthatmaybeappliedforinthefuturebypersonsinjuredwhilebeingemployedbythecounty,fireauthority,ordistrictafterceasingtobeemployedbyapublicagencyorthestateasaresultoftheassumptionbyacounty,fireauthority,ordistrictoffirefightingorlawenforcementfunctions.

Thissectionshallapplyinacountyofthefirst,thesecond,orthefourteenthclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961,andSection28023,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971.

(AddedbyStats.1990,Ch.419,Sec.6,EffectiveJuly26,1990)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.966(AB2331),Sec.4)(AmendedbyStats.2001,Ch.793(AB1683),Sec.41)

§31657.1. Assumption by county or district of safety functions performed by city; cessation of city employment; membership in county retirement association; service credits; applicability of section; duration of section (Santa Barbara)SubjecttoSection20569.4,whenever,asaresultoftheassumptionbyacountyor

districtoffirefightingorlawenforcementfunctionsperformedbyacitysubjecttothePublicEmployees’RetirementLaw(Part3(commencingwithSection20000)ofDivision5ofTitle2),anypersonwhoceasestobeemployedbyacityandwhoisemployedbyacountyordistrictinwhichthischapterhasbecomeoperative,thatpersonshallbecomeamemberoftheretirementassociationofacountyimmediatelyuponentrancetothecountyservice.ThatmemberofthecountyretirementsystemshallbeentitledtoservicecreditinthecountyretirementsystemfortheserviceforwhichheorshewasentitledtocreditinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystematthetimeofcessationofemploymentbythecity,withoutnecessityofpaymentofanyadditionalcontributionsinrespecttothatservice,whenandifallofthefollowingoccur:

(a)TheboardofretirementreceivescertificationfromtheBoardofAdministrationofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemoftheservicewithwhichthepersonwasentitledtobecreditedbythePublicEmployees’RetirementSystematthetimeofcessationofhisorhercityemployment.

(b)Thereispaidintothecountyretirementfundofthecounty,anamountequaltothenormalcontributionsofthepersontothePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,togetherwiththeinterestcreditedthereto,whichamountshallbecreditedtotheindividualaccountofthememberinthecountyretirementsystem,andshallthereafterforallpurposesbedeemedtobethemember’scontributiontothecountyretirementsystemwithrespecttotheservicesocertified.

(c)ThereispaidtotheretirementsystemofthecountyanamountequaltothecontributionsofthecitymadetothePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemonaccountofservicerenderedbythepersontogetherwithinterestcreditedtothecitythereto.

(d)Theboardofretirementperformsanactuarialanalysisofthetransactionsrequiredbythissectionandallrelatedcostsoftheactuarialanalysisshallbepaidforbythecity.Any

Article7,§31657.-§31657.1. 178

liabilityidentifiedbytheactuarialanalysisthatisnotcoveredbytherevenuesreceivedbythecountyretirementfundpursuanttothissectionfromthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemshallbepaidbythecityinamanneracceptabletotheboardofretirement.

(e)Theboardofretirementapprovesalltransactionsrequiredbythissection.Thissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyofthe16thclass,asdefinedbySection20820,

asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection20837,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinacountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativeinthecounty.

ThissectionshallremainineffectonlyuntilJanuary1,1998,andasofthatdateisrepealed,unlessalaterenactedstatute,whichisenactedbeforeJanuary1,1998,deletesorextendsthatdate.

(AddedbyStats.1993,Ch.684(AB1192),Sec.3)(Repealedbyitsownterms,January1,1998)

§31658. Election to make contributions pursuant to this section; receipt of service credit for additional retirement credit; limitations(a)Anactivemembermayelect,bywrittennoticefiledwiththeboard,tomake



(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, service credit for additional retirementcreditmaynotbecountedtomeettheminimumqualificationsforserviceordisabilityretirementorforpurposesofestablishingeligibilityforanybenefitsbasedon30yearsofservice,additionaladhoccost-of-livingbenefitsbasedonservicecredit,healthcarebenefits,oranyotherbenefitsbaseduponservicecredit.

(d)Anymemberwhoelectstomakecontributionsandreceiveservicecreditforadditionalretirementcreditshallcontributetotheretirementfund,priortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement,bylump-sumpaymentorbyinstallmentpaymentsoveraperiodnottoexceed10years,anamountthat,atthetimeofcommencementofpurchase,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,issufficienttonotplaceanyadditionalfinancialburdenupontheretirementsystem.

(e)Nomembermayreceiveservicecreditunderthissectionforanyadditionalretirementcreditforwhichheorshehasnotcompletedpaymentpursuanttosubdivision(d)beforetheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.SubjecttothelimitationsofUnitedStatesInternalRevenueServiceregulations,amemberwhohaselectedtomakepaymentininstallmentsmaycompletepaymentbylumpsumatanytimepriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherretirement.

(f)Anysumspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredtobeandadministeredascontributionsbythemember.

(g)Thissectionisnotoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(h)PursuanttoSection7522.46,thissectionshallapplyonlytoanapplicationtopurchaseadditionalretirementcreditthatwasreceivedbytheretirementsystempriortoJanuary1,2013,thatissubsequentlyapprovedbythesystem.

(AddedbyStats.2003,Ch.261(AB55),Sec.3,EffectiveSeptember4,2003)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.23)

Article7,§31657.1.-§31658.179

Article 7.5Retirement of Safety Members for Service


§31662. ApplicationThisarticleshallapplyinacountysubjecttotheprovisionsofSections31676.1and

31695.1.(AmendedbyStats.1957,Ch.568,Sec.7)

§31662.2. Retirement of safety memberRetirementofasafetymemberinacountysubjecttotheprovisionsofSection31676.1,

orofSection31695.1,ifapplicable,whohasmettherequirementsforageandserviceshallbemadebytheboardpursuanttothisarticleorpursuanttotheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,whicheverisapplicable.


§31662.4. Age for retirement; exceptions; adoption of resolution by countyAttheexpirationoftwoyearsafteraretirementsystempursuanttothischapter

becomesoperative,oronJanuary1,1954,whicheverislater,everysafetymemberexceptanelectiveofficer,thesheriffandundersheriff,whohasattainedage60shallberetiredforthwith.Onthesaiddateasheriffwhoisasafetymember,isnotanelectiveofficer,andwhohasattainedage70andanundersheriffwhoisasafetymemberandwhohasattainedage70shallberetiredforthwith.



§31662.6. Time for retirement; exceptions; adoption of resolution by countyTwoyearsafteraretirementsystemestablishedbythischapterbecomesoperative,

asafetymemberexceptanelectiveofficer,thesheriffandundersheriff,andthemarshalappointedtoservethesuperiorcourtwithinthecounty,shallberetiredasofthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthnextsucceedingthatinwhichheorsheattainsage60.



§31662.8. Safety member holding elective office; time for retirement; adoption of resolution by countyEverysafetymemberholdinganelectiveofficeshallberetiredattheendofthefirst

term to which he or she is elected which expires on the date following his or her seventieth birthday,exceptthatifthetermexpireswithintwoyearsafterthedateonwhicharetirementsystembecomesoperativeorpriortoJanuary1,1954,whicheverislater,heorsheshallberetiredattheendofthenexttermtowhichheorsheiselected.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardof

Article7.5,§31662.-§31662.8. 180

supervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makethissectionapplicableinthecounty.


§31663. Time for retirement; sheriff, undersheriff, marshal, and inspectors; adoption of resolution by countyAfterJanuary1,1954,ortwoyearsafteraretirementsystemestablishedbythischapter

becomesoperative,whicheverislater,asheriffwhoisasafetymemberandnotelective,andanundersheriff,whoisasafetymembershallberetiredasofthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthnextsucceedingthatinwhichheorsheattainsage70.

The marshal appointed to serve the superior court within the county who is a safety membershallberetiredasofthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthnextsucceedingthatinwhichheorsheattainsage65.

InSanBernardinoCounty,asheriff’sinspector,achiefinspectorinasheriff’soffice,orachiefdeputyinasheriff’soffice,whoisasafetymemberandwhoseprimarydutiesareadministrative,shallberetiredasofthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthnextsucceedingthatinwhichthepersonattainsage70.



§31663.1. Applicability of Sections 31662.6 and 31663 to assistant sheriff or chief in sheriff’s office; counties of the first class; operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)Sections31662.6and31663shallnotapplytoanassistantsherifforachiefina

sheriff’sofficewhoisasafetymemberandwhoseprimarydutiesareadministrative.(b)Thissectionappliesonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,as


(c)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makethissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(AddedbyStats.2001,Ch.33(SB304),Sec.1,EffectiveJuly3,2001,asanurgencystatute)

§31663.15. (Operation contingent) Active safety member, applicability of specified sections(a)Sections31662.4,31662.6,31662.8,and31663shallnotapplytoapersonwhois

anactivesafetymemberdescribedinSection31469.3or31470.4ifaphysicianemployedorapprovedbythecountycertifiesthatthesafetymemberiscapableofperforminghisorherassigneddutiespursuanttostandardssetforthbythemember’semployer.

(b)ThissectionshallalsoapplytoamemberwhoreinstatesfromretirementpursuanttoSection31680.8.

(c)Acountythatadoptsthissectionshallprovideasafetymemberwhoisonadisabilityleaveofabsencetheopportunitytoreceivethephysiciancertificationdescribedinsubdivision(a)uponreturnfromhisorherleave,andthatmembershallnotbesubjecttomandatoryretirementpursuanttoSection31662.4,31662.6,or31662.8priortoreceivingthatopportunity.

(d)Thissectionappliesonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.

Article7.5,§31662.8.-§31663.15.181

(e)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makethissectionandSection31680.8applicableinthecounty.Theresolutionoftheboardofsupervisorsmaydesignateadate,whichmaybeprior to the date of the resolution or the effective date of this section, upon which the resolution andthissectionshallbeoperativeinthecounty,andmayfurtherprovidethatamember,describedinSection31470.4,whoretiredpursuanttoSection31662.4or31662.6,priortoApril1,2007,isnoteligibletoreinstatefromretirementpursuanttoSection31680.8.

(AddedbyStats.2007,Ch.290(SB134),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2008,Ch.21(SB579),Sec.1,EffectiveJune2,2008)(AmendedbyStats.2009,Ch.190(SB538),Sec.1)

§31663.2. (Repealed January 1, 2010) Applicability of Sections 31662.4 and 31662.6 to certain fire chiefs (Los Angeles)(a)(1)Sections31662.4and31662.6shallnotapplytothefirechiefofafiredistrictwhois

asafetymemberandwhoseprimarydutiesareadministrative,ifthefirechiefwasemployedasfirechiefonMay1,2005.

(2)AfirechiefwhoisexemptedfromtherequirementsofSections31662.4and31662.6,pursuanttoparagraph(1),shallretirebeforeApril1,2009,and,subsequenttotheoperativedateofthissection,thatfirechiefshallnotreceiveasalaryincreasethatisdisproportionate to any salary increase granted to other department heads of the same jurisdictionatthesametime.

(b)Thissectionappliesonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySections28020and28022.

(c)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(d)ThissectionshallbecomeinoperativeonApril1,2009,and,asofJanuary1,2010,isrepealed,unlessalaterenactedstatute,thatisenactedbeforeJanuary1,2010,deletesorextendsthedatesonwhichitbecomesinoperativeandisrepealed.

(FormerSection31663.2,relatingtoretirementofsafetymember,wasaddedbyStats.1951,Ch.1098,Sec.24,amendedbyStats.1953,Ch.844,Sec.1,andRepealedbyStats.1969,Ch.439,Sec.6)

(AddedbyStats.2005,Ch.134(AB1769),Sec.1,EffectiveJuly27,2005)(RepealedbyStats.2008,Ch.21(SB579),Sec.2,EffectiveJune2,2008)

§31663.25. Application for retirement(a)ExceptasprovidedinSection31663.26,asafetymemberwhohasreachedthe

applicablecompulsoryageofretirement,ifany,orasafetymemberwhohascompleted10yearsofcontinuousserviceandwhohasreachedtheageof50,orasafetymemberwhohascompleted20yearsofserviceregardlessofage,mayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplicationsettingforththedateuponwhichthememberdesireshisorherretirementtobecomeeffectivewhichshallbenotmorethan60daysafterthedateoffilingtheapplication.

(b)ThissectionshallnotapplytoamemberwhoissubjecttotheprovisionsoftheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013(Article4(commencingwithSection7522)ofChapter21ofDivision7ofTitle1)foralloranyportionofthatmember’smembershipinthecountyretirementsystem.


Article7.5,§31663.15.-§31663.25. 182

§31663.26. Age and service requisites; application; time of filing; application of section(a)NotwithstandingSection31663.25,asafetymemberwhohasreachedtheapplicable

compulsoryageofretirement,ifany,orasafetymemberwhoisafull-timeemployee,hascompleted10yearsofservice,hasreachedtheageof50,andhasnoservicebreakwhichexceeds12months,orasafetymemberwhohascompleted20yearsofserviceregardlessofage,mayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplicationsettingforththedateuponwhichthememberdesireshisorherretirementtobecomeeffectivewhichshallbenotmorethan60daysafterthedateoffilingtheapplication.

(b)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byordinance,makethissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(c)ThissectionshallnotapplytoamemberwhoissubjecttotheprovisionsoftheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013foralloranyportionofhisorhermembershipinthecountyretirementsystem.


§31663.3. Counties over 199,000, but less than 200,000; employment of sheriff from year to year after attaining the age 70 (Ventura)Notwithstanding any other provision of law, in any county having a population in

excessof199,000butlessthan200,000asdeterminedbySection28020asamendedin1961,anundersheriffuponattainingtheageof70shallthereafterbeemployedfromyeartoyearatthediscretionofthecounty.


§31664. Current service and prior service pensions; additional pension to safety membersNotwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, the current service pension or

thecurrentservicepensioncombinedwiththepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionforsafetymemberspurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficientwhenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuitytoequalthefractionofone-fiftiethofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthoppositehisorherageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearinthefollowingtable,multipliedbythenumberofyearsofcurrentserviceoryearsofcurrentandpriorservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,butinnoeventshallthetotalretirementallowanceexceedthelimitationofthesafetymember’sfinalcompensationassetforthinSection31676.1asitnowreadsormayhereafterbeamendedtoread:

Age at retirement Fraction 41 0.6258 41 1/4 0.6350 41 1/2 0.6442 41 3/4 0.6533 42 0.6625 421/4 0.6720 421/2 0.6814 423/4 0.6909 43 0.7004 43 1/4 0.7102

Article7.5,§31663.26.-§31664.183

43 1/2 0.7200 43 3/4 0.7299 44 0.7397 44 1/4 0.7499 44 1/2 0.7601 44 3/4 0.7703 45 0.7805 45 1/4 0.7910 45 1/2 0.8016 45 3/4 0.8121 46 0.8226 461/4 0.8339 461/2 0.8452 463/4 0.8566 47 0.8678 47 1/4 0.8780 47 1/2 0.8882 47 3/4 0.8983 48 0.9085 481/4 0.9194 481/2 0.9304 483/4 0.9413 49 0.9522 49 1/4 0.9641 49 1/2 0.9761 49 3/4 0.9880 50 1.0000 501/4 1.0130 501/2 1.0259 503/4 1.0387 51 1.0516 51 1/4 1.0656 51 1/2 1.0796 51 3/4 1.0937 52 1.1078 521/4 1.1231 521/2 1.1384 523/4 1.1538 53 1.1692

Age at retirement Fraction

Article7.5,§31664. 184

53 1/4 1.1859 53 1/2 1.2028 53 3/4 1.2195 54 1.2366 54 1/4 1.2547 54 1/2 1.2730 54 3/4 1.2915 55 and over 1.3099

Thefractionhereinsetforthshallbeuseduntiladjustedbyeachboardforitsretirementsysteminaccordancewiththeinterestandmortalitytablesadoptedbythatboard.

Contributionsshallnotbemadebysafetymembershavingcreditfor30yearsofcontinuousservice.


§31664.1. Additional service pension(a)Thissectionmaybemadeapplicableinanycountyonthefirstdayofthemonthafter

theboardofsupervisorsofthecountyadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthissectionshallbecomeapplicableinthecounty.

(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthischapter,thecurrentservicepensionorthecurrentservicepensioncombinedwiththepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionforsafetymemberspurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficientwhenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuitytoequal3percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthoppositehisorherageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,inthefollowingtable,multipliedbythenumberofyearsofcurrentserviceoryearsofcurrentandpriorservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement.Innoeventshallthetotalretirementallowanceexceedthelimitationofthesafetymember’sfinalcompensationassetforthinSection31676.1,asitnowreadsormayhereafterbeamendedtoread.

Age at retirement Fraction 41 0.6258 41 1/4 0.6350 41 1/2 0.6442 41 3/4 0.6533 42 0.6625 421/4 0.6720 421/2 0.6814 423/4 0.6909 43 0.7004 43 1/4 0.7102 43 1/2 0.7200 43 3/4 0.7299 44 0.7397 44 1/4 0.7499


Article7.5,§31664.-§31664.1.185

44 1/2 0.7601 44 3/4 0.7703 45 0.7805 45 1/4 0.7910 45 1/2 0.8016 45 3/4 0.8121 46 0.8226 461/4 0.8339 461/2 0.8452 463/4 0.8586 47 0.8678 47 1/4 0.8780 47 1/2 0.8882 47 3/4 0.8983 48 0.9085 481/4 0.9194 481/2 0.9304 483/4 0.9413 49 0.9522 49 1/4 0.9641 49 1/2 0.9761 49 3/4 0.9880 50andover 1.0000

(c)Contributionsshallnotbemadebysafetymembershavingcreditfor30yearsofcontinuousservice.


§31664.15. Half pay adjustmentNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthischapter,asafetymemberwhoentersthe

systemwithcreditforpriorserviceandretiresuponcompletionof20yearsofcontinuousserviceandatotalof25yearsofserviceafterattainingage50whoseretirementallowanceislessthanone-halfofhisorherfinalcompensation,hisorherpriorservicepensionshallbeincreasedsoastocausehisorhertotalretirementallowancetoamounttoone-halfofthatfinalcompensation.


§31664.2. Additional service pension(a)Thissectionmaybemadeapplicableinanycountyonthefirstdayofthemonthafter


(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthischapter,thecurrentservicepensionor


Article7.5,§31664.1.-§31664.2. 186

thecurrentservicepensioncombinedwiththepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionforsafetymemberspurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficientwhenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuitytoequal3percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthoppositehisorherageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,inthefollowingtable,multipliedbythenumberofyearsofcurrentserviceoryearsofcurrentandpriorservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement.Innoeventshallthetotalretirementallowanceexceedthelimitationofthesafetymember’sfinalcompensationassetforthinSection31676.1,asitnowreadsormayhereafterbeamendedtoread.

Age at retirement Fraction 41 0.4777 41 1/4 0.4848 41 1/2 0.4918 41 3/4 0.4987 42 0.5058 421/4 0.5130 421/2 0.5202 423/4 0.5274 43 0.5347 43 1/4 0.5422 43 1/2 0.5497 43 3/4 0.5572 44 0.5647 44 1/4 0.5725 44 1/2 0.5803 44 3/4 0.5881 45 0.5958 45 1/4 0.6039 45 1/2 0.6120 45 3/4 0.6200 46 0.6280 461/4 0.6366 461/2 0.6452 463/4 0.6555 47 0.6625 47 1/4 0.6703 47 1/2 0.6781 47 3/4 0.6858 48 0.6936 481/4 0.7019 481/2 0.7103 483/4 0.7186 49 0.7269

Article7.5,§31664.2.187

49 1/4 0.7360 49 1/2 0.7452 49 3/4 0.7543 50 0.7634 501/4 0.7733 501/2 0.7832 503/4 0.7930 51 0.8028 51 1/4 0.8135 51 1/2 0.8242 51 3/4 0.8349 52 0.8457 521/4 0.8574 521/2 0.8691 523/4 0.8808 53 0.8926 53 1/4 0.9053 53 1/2 0.9182 53 3/4 0.9310 54 0.9418 54 1/4 0.9579 54 1/2 0.9718 54 3/4 0.9860 55andover 1.0000

(c)Contributionsshallnotbemadebysafetymembershavingcreditfor30yearsofcontinuousservice.


§31664.3. Prior service credit in computing benefits in counties exceeding 2,000,000; election of member; amount due (Los Angeles)Thissectionshallapplyinanycountyhavingapopulationinexcessof2,000,000.A

safetymembershallreceivenocreditforpriorservicesubsequenttoJune30,1921,andpriortoJanuary1,1938,incalculatingaretirementallowancepursuanttothisarticleunlesspriortoJanuary1,1952,hefileswiththeboardhiswrittenelectiontopayintotheretirementfundsixdollars($6)foreachmonthofpriorserviceforwhichheclaimscredit.IfasafetymemberfilesanelectionpursuanttothissectionandhasaccumulatedcontributionstohiscreditasofDecember31,1937,whichwithinteresttoDecember31,1951,arelessthanpaymentsdueforpriorservicecreditsubsequenttoJune30,1921,theamountdueorbalancethereofshallbepaidbyadditionalsalarydeductionsintheamountsspecifiedbythememberbutinnocaselessthansixdollars($6)permonth.Thetotalamountdueshallbepaidpriortotheeffectivedateofhisretirement.Iftheaccumulatedcontributionswithinterestexceedtheamountdueforpriorservicecreditthebalanceshallberefunded.



Article7.5,§31664.2.-§31664.3. 188

§31664.4. Contributions by former members of system; rate calculationAnypersonwhoelectstobecomeasafetymemberwhowasaformermemberofa

retirementsystemestablishedpursuanttoChapter3orChapter5shallhavehiscontributionstotheretirementassociationformembershipservicepriortoJanuary1,1952,calculatedbythesameratesandunderthesameconditionsasthoseapplicabletoamemberoftheretirementsystemestablishedpursuanttoChapter4.


§31664.5. Retirement upon completion of twenty-five years of service; option; minimum allowance(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthischapter,asafetymembermayexercise

theoptionofretiringuponcompletionof25yearsofservice,andifsuchoptionisexercised,thesafetymembershallreceivearetirementallowanceequaltonolessthan30percentofhisorherfinalcompensation.

(b)ThissectionshallnotapplytoamemberwhoissubjecttotheprovisionsoftheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013foralloranyportionofhisorhermembershipinthecountyretirementsystem.


§31664.65. Allowance of member having credit for time not safety member or member of established systemIfamemberretireswithcreditfortimeduringwhichheorshewasnotasafetymember

oramemberofasystemestablishedpursuanttoeitherChapter4(commencingwithSection31900)orChapter5(commencingwithSection32200),heorsheshallreceiveforthattime:

(a)AretirementallowancecalculatedpursuanttoSection31664fortimeduringwhichheorshewasemployedprincipallyinactivelawenforcementoractivefiresuppressionasdescribedinSection31470.2orSection31470.4byacounty,orbyadistrictorcourtorganizedorexistingwithinsuchcounty,orwasamemberofasystemestablishedpursuanttoeitherChapter4(commencingwithSection31900)orChapter5(commencingwithSection32200),plusaretirementallowancecalculatedundereithersubdivision(b)or(c),whicheverisapplicable.

(b)AretirementallowancecalculatedpursuanttoSection31664forallpriorcountyservicewithsuchcounty,andforanypublicservicecreditforwhichthememberhaselectedtoreceivepursuanttoSection31641.1or31641.5.

Thissubdivisionshallapplyonlytoamemberwho,whentheboardofsupervisorspursuanttoSection31695.1providesthatprovisionsofthischapterrelatingtosafetymembersshall apply to all employees of the county whose principal duties consist of active law enforcementoractivefiresuppressionasdefinedinSection31470.2or31470.4,wasemployedbythecountyprincipallyinactivelawenforcementoractivefiresuppressionasdefinedbysuchsectionsandwhoelectedtobeincludedwithinsuchsafetymemberprovisionsatthetimeandinthemannerprescribedbySection31695.2.

(c)AretirementallowancecalculatedpursuanttoArticle8(commencingwithSection31670)fortimeduringwhichheorshewasnotengagedprincipallyinactivelawenforcementoractivefiresuppressionasdescribedinSection31470.2or31470.4,noramemberofasystemestablishedpursuanttoeitherChapter4(commencingwithSection31900)orChapter5(commencingwithSection32200).

Thissubdivisionshallapplytoanymembertowhomsubdivision(b)isnotapplicable.

Article7.5,§31664.4.-§31664.65.189

Theprovisionsofthissectionshallbeapplicableirrespectiveofwhetheramemberis,atthetimeofretirement,asafetymemberorageneralmember.


Article 8Retirement for Service


§31670. Retirement for age and serviceRetirementofamemberwhohasmettherequirementsforageandserviceshallbe

madebytheboardpursuanttothisarticleorpursuanttotheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,whicheverisapplicable.


§31671. Benefits computation; amount of compensation considered in determination; limitations(a)Theamountofcompensationthatistakenintoaccountincomputingbenefits

payabletoanypersonwhofirstbecomesamemberoftheretirementsystemonorafterJuly1,1996,shallnotexceedthelimitationsinSection401(a)(17)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCodeuponpublicretirementsystems,asthatsectionmaybeamendedfromtimetotimeandasthatlimitmaybeadjustedbytheCommissionerofInternalRevenueforincreasesincostofliving.Thedeterminationofcompensationforeach12-monthperiodshallbesubjecttotheannualcompensationlimitineffectforthecalendaryearinwhichthe12-monthperiodbegins.Inadeterminationofaverageannualcompensationovermorethanone12-monthperiod,theamountofcompensationtakenintoaccountforeach12-monthperiodshallbesubjecttotheapplicableannualcompensationlimit.

(b)ThecompensationlimitationsspecifiedinSection7522.10shallalsoapplytoamemberwhoissubjecttotheprovisionsoftheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013foralloranyportionofhisorhermembershipinthecountyretirementsystem.


§31671.05. Mandatory retirement age less than 70; effectAmemberwho,onDecember31,1978,wasamemberofaretirementsystemunderthis

chapterwhichimposedamandatoryretirementagelessthanage70applicabletothatmembermay,notwithstandingtherepealofSection31671bythesameactamendingthissectionduringthe1983portionofthe1983-84RegularSessionoftheLegislatureandtherepealofSections31671.01and31671.02byChapter385oftheStatutesof1978,retirefromthatsystemuponreachingthemandatoryretirementageineffectforthatsystemonDecember31,1978.

Thissectionshallnotbecomeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisorsadoptsaresolutionmakingitoperativeinthecounty.


§31672. Voluntary retirement; application; conditions(a)Amemberwhohasreached70yearsofageoramemberwhohascompleted10

yearsofserviceandwhohasreached55yearsofage,oramemberwhohascompleted30years

Article7.5,§31664.65.-Article8,§31672. 190

ofserviceregardlessofage,mayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplication,settingforththedateuponwhichheorshedesireshisorherretirementtobecomeeffectivenotearlierthanthedatetheapplicationisfiledwiththeboardandnotmorethan60daysafterthedateoffilingtheapplication.Fifty-fiveyearsofageintheprecedingsentencemaybereducedto50yearsofageinacountybyresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.

(b)ThissectionshallnotapplytoanymemberwhoissubjecttotheprovisionsoftheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013(Article4(commencingwithSection7522)ofChapter21ofDivision7ofTitle1)foralloranyportionofthatmember’smembershipinthecountyretirementsystem.

(AmendedbyStats.1972,Ch.1126,Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.2006,Ch.846(AB2863),Sec.3,EffectiveSeptember30,2006)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.30)

§31672.1. Voluntary retirement; application; age 55, 10 years of service, 5 full years of credit(a)Anemployeewhohasreachedtheageof55years,hasheldapositioninthecounty

servicefor10years,andonthedateofretirementisemployedinatemporary,seasonal,intermittent,orpart-timepositioninwhichtheemployeehasreceivedcreditforfivefullyearsofservice,mayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplication,settingforththedateuponwhichtheemployeedesireshisorherretirementtobecomeeffectivewhichshallnotbemorethan60daysafterthedateoffilingtheapplication.Theageof55intheprecedingsentencemaybereducedtoage50inanycountybyresolutionoftheboardofsupervisorsifsuchreductionhasalsobeenmadeunderSection31672.

(b)ThissectionshallnotapplytoamemberwhoissubjecttotheprovisionsoftheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013foralloranyportionofhisorhermembershipinthecountyretirementsystem.


§31672.2. Elective officers; voluntary retirement; application; conditions; operative effect and application of section (Santa Barbara)(a)Anelectiveofficerwhofiledadeclarationwiththeboardtobecomeamember,

pursuanttoSection31553,whohasservedtwocompleteconsecutivetermsinanelectiveoffice,andwhohasreachedtheminimumageforretirementprovidedinSection31672,mayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplicationsettingforththedateuponwhichheorshedesireshisorherretirementtobecomeeffectivewhichshallbenotmorethan60daysafterthedateoffilingtheapplication.

(b)Thissectionshallbecomeoperativeonlyinanycountyofthe16thclass,asdefinedbySection28020and28037,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsadoptsaresolutionmakingitoperativeinthecounty.

(c)ThissectionshallnotapplytoanelectiveofficerwhoissubjecttotheprovisionsoftheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013foralloranyportionofhisorhermembershipinthecountyretirementsystem.

(AddedbyStats.1988,Ch.1235,Sec.5,Operativeondateprescribedbyitsownprovisions)


§31672.3. Member of county retirement system; retirement criteriaAmemberofacountyretirementsystemwhoissubjecttotheCaliforniaPublic

Employees’PensionReformActof2013(Article4(commencingwithSection7522)ofChapter21ofDivision7ofTitle1)foralloraportionofthemember’smembershipinthecounty

Article8,§31672.-§31672.3.191

retirementsystemwhohascompletedfiveyearsofserviceandhasreachedtheminimumretirementageapplicabletothatmemberundertheact,orhasreached70yearsofage,mayberetireduponfilingwiththeboardawrittenapplication,settingforththedateuponwhichthememberdesireshisorherretirementtobecomeeffectivewhichshallbenotmorethan60daysafterthedateoffilingtheapplication.


§31672.5. Member of retirement system of other public agency becoming member of county retirement association; eligibility for retirementNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,whenanymemberofaretirement

systemofanyotherpublicagencybecomesamemberofacountyretirementassociation,establishedpursuanttothischapter,asaresultofthetransfertoandassumptionbythecountyofanyfunctionoftheotherpublicagency,andthememberretainsrightsintheretirementsystemoftheotherpublicagencyinrespecttoservicetheretoforerenderedtothatagency,suchmembershallbeeligibleforretirementunderthecountyretirementsystematanytimeatwhichhewouldhavebeeneligibleforsuchretirementiftheservicerenderedtotheotherpublicagencyhadbeenrenderedinsteadtothecounty.Acertificateofanyofficeroftheotherpublicagencyauthorizedtodetermineservicerenderedtothatagencythatcertainservicewasrenderedtosuchagencyshallbeacceptedbytheretirementboardofthecountyretirementassociationasprimafacieevidenceofservicesorendered.

Thissectionshallbeappliedonlytoenablesuchmembersofcountyretirementsystemstoqualifyforretirement.Nothinginthissectionentitlesanymemberofacountyretirementsystemtoanypensionorotherbenefitbaseduponservicerenderedtoanyotherpublicagency,butsuchamemberuponhisretirementshallbeentitledtoaretirementallowanceunderthecountyretirementsystem,calculatedaccordingtotheformulaapplicableundersuchsystem,andonthebasisofhiscountyserviceeventhoughsuchservicebelessthantheminimumcountyservicerequiredforretirementundersuchsystem.

The provisions in this chapter for minimum retirement allowances, shall not apply to anyretiredpersonwhowouldnothavequalifiedforretirementwithoutincludingunderthissectionservicerenderedtosuchpublicagency,norshallsuchprovisionsapplyunlessthesumof the retirement allowances to which such person is entitled under the county retirement systemandtheretirementsystemoftheotherpublicagency,islessthantheotherwiseapplicableminimumallowanceundersuchprovisions.

Thissectionshallbecomeoperativeinanycountyonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsadoptsbyfour-fifthsvotearesolutionmakingitoperativeinthecounty.


§31673. Retirement allowancesUponretirementforserviceamemberisentitledtoreceivearetirementallowance

which shall consist of:(a)Hisserviceretirementannuity.(b)Hiscurrentservicepension.(c)Hispriorservicepension.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31674. Service retirement annuityTheserviceretirementannuityisanannuitywhichistheactuarialequivalentofhis

accumulatedcontributionsatthetimeofhisretirement.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

Article8,§31672.3.-§31674. 192

§31675. Current service pensionThecurrentservicepensionisapension,purchasedbythecontributionsofthe

countyordistrict,equaltothatportionoftheannuitypurchasedbytheaccumulatednormalcontributionsofthemember.


§31676. Prior service pensionThepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionformemberspurchasedbythe

contributionsofthecountyordistrict,equaltoone-sixtiethoftheaverageannualcompensationearnablebyhimduringthelastthreeyearspriortotheestablishmentofthesystemandthelastthreeyearsofservice,multipliedbythenumberofyearsofpriorservicecreditedtohim.


§31676.01. Operation of section; coverage under federal system; current and prior service pensions as additional pensionThissectionshallbeoperativeinacountyatsuchtimeortimesasmaybemutually

agreedtoinmemorandaofunderstandingexecutedbytheemployerandemployeerepresentativesiftheboardofsupervisorsadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutiondeclaringthatthesectionshallbeoperativeinthecounty.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, the current service pension, or thecurrentservicepensioncombinedwiththepriorservicepension,isanadditionalpensionformemberspurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficient,whenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuity,toequalthefractionofone-ninetiethofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthoppositethemember’sageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,inthefollowingtablemultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcurrentserviceoryearsofcurrentandpriorservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,butinnoeventshallthetotalretirementallowanceexceedthemember’sfinalcompensation.

Age at retirement Fraction 50 0.7091 501/4 0.7183 501/2 0.7274 503/4 0.7366 51 0.7457 51 1/4 0.7547 51 1/2 0.7637 51 3/4 0.7726 52 0.7816 521/4 0.7907 521/2 0.7999 523/4 0.8090 53 0.8181 53 1/4 0.8275 53 1/2 0.8369 53 3/4 0.8462 54 0.8556

Article8,§31675.-§31676.01.193

54 1/4 0.8656 54 1/2 0.8755 54 3/4 0.8855 55 0.8954 55 1/4 0.9061 55 1/2 0.9168 55 3/4 0.9275 56 0.9382 561/4 0.9498 561/2 0.9614 563/4 0.9730 57 0.9846 57 1/4 0.9972 57 1/2 1.0098 57 3/4 1.0224 58 1.0350 581/4 1.0487 581/2 1.0625 583/4 1.0762 59 1.0899 59 1/4 1.1049 59 1/2 1.1199 59 3/4 1.1349 60 1.1500 601/4 1.1611 601/2 1.1723 603/4 1.1835 61 1.1947 611/4 1.2097 611/2 1.2247 613/4 1.2398 62 1.2548 621/4 1.2707 621/2 1.2867 623/4 1.3026 63 1.3186 631/4 1.3355 631/2 1.3525 633/4 1.3695 64 1.3865


Article8,§31676.01. 194

641/4 1.4047 641/2 1.4229 643/4 1.4411 65andover 1.4593

Thefractionshereinsetforthshallbeuseduntiladjustedbyeachboardforitsretirementsysteminaccordancewiththeinterestandmortalitytablesadoptedbyeachsuchboardwithrespecttoitsretirementsystem.

Inanycountyoperatingunderthissectionanylimitationinanyprovisionsofthischapterupontheamountofcompensationusedforcomputingratesofcontributionsshallbedisregarded.

(AddedbyStats.1993,Ch.61(AB2031),Sec.3,AmendedbyStats.1993(AB2379),Sec.1)

§31676.1. Application of section to counties; computation of total retirement allowanceThissectionmaybemadeapplicableinanycountyonthefirstdayofthemonthafter

theboardofsupervisorsofsuchcountyadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthissectionshallbecomeapplicableinsuchcounty.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter the current service pension or thecurrentservicepensioncombinedwiththepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionformemberspurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficient,whenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuity,toequalthefractionofone-sixtiethofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthoppositethemember’sageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,inthefollowingtablemultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcurrentserviceoryearsofcurrentandpriorservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,butinnoeventshallthetotalretirementallowanceexceedthemember’sfinalcompensation.

Age at retirement Fraction 50 0.7091 501/4 0.7183 501/2 0.7274 503/4 0.7366 51 0.7457 51 1/4 0.7547 51 1/2 0.7637 51 3/4 0.7726 52 0.7816 521/4 0.7907 521/2 0.7999 523/4 0.8090 53 0.8181 53 1/4 0.8275 53 1/2 0.8369 53 3/4 0.8462


Article8,§31676.01.-§31676.1.195

54 0.8556 54 1/4 0.8656 54 1/2 0.8755 54 3/4 0.8855 55 0.8954 55 1/4 0.9061 55 1/2 0.9168 55 3/4 0.9275 56 0.9382 561/4 0.9498 561/2 0.9614 563/4 0.9730 57 0.9846 57 1/4 0.9972 57 1/2 1.0098 57 3/4 1.0224 58 1.0350 581/4 1.0487 581/2 1.0625 583/4 1.0762 59 1.0899 59 1/4 1.1049 59 1/2 1.1199 59 3/4 1.1349 60 1.1500 601/4 1.1611 601/2 1.1723 603/4 1.1835 61 1.1947 611/4 1.2097 611/2 1.2247 613/4 1.2398 62 1.2548 621/4 1.2707 621/2 1.2867 623/4 1.3026 63 1.3186 631/4 1.3355 631/2 1.3525 633/4 1.3695


Article8,§31676.1. 196

64 1.3865 641/4 1.4047 641/2 1.4229 643/4 1.4411 65andover 1.4593




§31676.11. Adoption of section by resolution; computation of benefitsThissectionmaybemadeapplicableinanycountyonthefirstdayofthemonthafter


Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter the current service pension or thecurrentservicepensioncombinedwithpriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionformemberspurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficient,whenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuity,toequalthefractionofone-sixtiethofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthoppositethemember’sageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,inthefollowingtablemultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcurrentserviceoryearsofcurrentandpriorservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,butinnoeventshallthetotalretirementallowanceexceedthemember’sfinalcompensation.

Age at retirement Fraction 50 0.7454 501/4 0.7561 501/2 0.7668 503/4 0.7775 51 0.7882 51 1/4 0.7998 51 1/2 0.8114 51 3/4 0.8230 52 0.8346 521/4 0.8472 521/2 0.8598 523/4 0.8724 53 0.8850 53 1/4 0.8987 53 1/2 0.9125 53 3/4 0.9262


Article8,§31676.1.-§31676.11.197

54 0.9399 54 1/4 0.9549 54 1/2 0.9699 54 3/4 0.9849 55 1.0000 55 1/4 1.0111 55 1/2 1.0223 55 3/4 1.0335 56 1.0447 561/4 1.0597 561/2 1.0747 563/4 1.0898

57 1.1048 57 1/4 1.1207 57 1/2 1.1367 57 3/4 1.1526 58 1.1686 581/4 1.1855 581/2 1.2025 583/4 1.2195 59 1.2365 59 1/4 1.2547 59 1/2 1.2729 59 3/4 1.2911 60 1.3093 601/4 1.3221 601/2 1.3350 603/4 1.3479 61 1.3608 611/4 1.3736 611/2 1.3865 613/4 1.3994 62 1.4123 621/4 1.4251 621/2 1.4380 623/4 1.4509 63 1.4638 631/4 1.4766 631/2 1.4895 633/4 1.5024


Article8,§31676.11. 198

64 1.5153 641/4 1.5281 641/2 1.5410 643/4 1.5539 65 1.5668

Inanycountyoperatingunderthissectionanylimitationsinanyprovisionsofthischapterupontheamountofcompensationusedforcomputingratesofcontributionsshallbedisregarded.

WhereverinthischapterreferenceismadetosurvivorshipbenefitsandrightsunderSection31676.1,thesameshallapplytothissection.


§31676.12. Adoption of section by resolution; additional benefits; limitation; computationThissectionmaybemadeapplicableinanycountyonthefirstdayofthemonthafter


Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, the current service pension or thecurrentservicepensioncombinedwiththepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionformemberspurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficient,whenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuity,toequalthefractionofone-fiftiethofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthoppositethemember’sageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,inthefollowingtablemultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcurrentserviceoryearsofcurrentandpriorservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,butinnoeventshallthetotalretirementallowanceexceedthemember’sfinalcompensation.

Age at retirement Fraction 50 0.6681 501/4 0.6775 501/2 0.6869 503/4 0.6962 51 0.7056 51 1/4 0.7156 51 1/2 0.7255 51 3/4 0.7355 52 0.7454 521/4 0.7561 521/2 0.7668 523/4 0.7775 53 0.7882 53 1/4 0.7998 53 1/2 0.8114 53 3/4 0.8230 54 0.8346


Article8,§31676.11.-§31676.12.199

54 1/4 0.8472 54 1/2 0.8598 54 3/4 0.8724 55 0.8850 55 1/4 0.8987 55 1/2 0.9125 55 3/4 0.9262 56 0.9399 561/4 0.9549 561/2 0.9699 563/4 0.9849 57 1.0000 57 1/4 1.0111 57 1/2 1.0223 57 3/4 1.0335 58 1.0447 581/4 1.0597 581/2 1.0747 583/4 1.0898 59 1.1048 59 1/4 1.1207 59 1/2 1.1367 59 3/4 1.1526 60 1.1686 601/4 1.1855 601/2 1.2025 603/4 1.2195 61 1.2365 611/4 1.2547 611/2 1.2729 613/4 1.2911 62andover 1.3093


WheneverinthischapterreferenceismadetosurvivorshipandotherbenefitsandrightsunderSection31676.1,thesameshallapplytothissection.


§31676.13. Increase in service retirement allowances; computation; limitation; adoption by resolutionNotwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter the current service pension or


Article8,§31676.12.-§31676.13. 200

thecurrentservicepensioncombinedwiththepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionformemberspurchasedbycontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficient,whenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuity,toequalthefractionofone-sixtiethofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthoppositethemember’sageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,inthefollowingtablemultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcurrentserviceoryearsofcurrentandpriorservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,butinnoeventshallthetotalretirementallowanceexceedthemember’sfinalcompensation.

Age at retirement Fraction 50 0.8181 501/4 0.8275 501/2 0.8369 503/4 0.8462 51 0.8556 51 1/4 0.8656 51 1/2 0.8755 51 3/4 0.8855 52 0.8954 521/4 0.9061 521/2 0.9168 523/4 0.9275 53 0.9382 53 1/4 0.9498 53 1/2 0.9614 53 3/4 0.9730 54 0.9846 54 1/4 0.9972 54 1/2 1.0098 54 3/4 1.0224 55 1.0350 55 1/4 1.0487 55 1/2 1.0625 55 3/4 1.0762 56 1.0899 561/4 1.1049 561/2 1.1199 563/4 1.1349 57 1.1500 57 1/4 1.1611 57 1/2 1.1723 57 3/4 1.1835 58 1.1947

Article8,§31676.13.201

581/4 1.2097 581/2 1.2247 583/4 1.2398 59 1.2548 59 1/4 1.2707 59 1/2 1.2867 59 3/4 1.3026 60 1.3186 601/4 1.3355 601/2 1.3525 603/4 1.3695 61 1.3865 611/4 1.4047 611/2 1.4229 613/4 1.4411 62andover 1.4593



Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiladoptedbyaresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.

WheneverinthischapterreferenceismadetothesurvivorshipandotherbenefitsandrightsunderSection31676.1,thesameshallapplytothissection.


§31676.14. Increase in service retirement allowances; limitation; survivorship benefits and rights; adoption by resolutionNotwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter the current service pension or

thecurrentservicepensioncombinedwiththepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionformemberspurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficient,whenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuity,toequalthefractionofone-sixtiethofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthoppositethemember’sageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,inthefollowingtablemultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcurrentserviceoryearsofcurrentandpriorservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,butinnoeventshallthetotalretirementallowanceexceedthemember’sfinalcompensation.

Age at retirement Fraction 50 0.8850 501/4 0.8987 501/2 0.9125


Article8,§31676.13.-§31676.14. 202

503/4 0.9262 51 0.9399 51 1/4 0.9549 51 1/2 0.9699 51 3/4 0.9849 52 1.0000 521/4 1.0111 521/2 1.0223 523/4 1.0335 53 1.0447 53 1/4 1.0597 53 1/2 1.0747 53 3/4 1.0898 54 1.1048 54 1/4 1.1207 54 1/2 1.1367 54 3/4 1.1526 55 1.1686 55 1/4 1.1855 55 1/2 1.2025 55 3/4 1.2195 56 1.2365 561/4 1.2547 561/2 1.2729 563/4 1.2911 57 1.3093 57 1/4 1.3221 57 1/2 1.3350 57 3/4 1.3479 58 1.3608 581/4 1.3736 581/2 1.3865 583/4 1.3994 59 1.4123 59 1/4 1.4251 59 1/2 1.4380 59 3/4 1.4509 60 1.4638 601/4 1.4766


Article8,§31676.14.203

Age at retirement Fraction 601/2 1.4895 603/4 1.5024 61 1.5153 611/4 1.5281 611/2 1.5410 613/4 1.5539 62andover 1.5668



Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiladoptedbyaresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31676.15. Additional pension; Determining amount of allowances; Applicabilty to certain members(a)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(d),thissectionmaybemadeapplicableinany

countywhichhasimplementedtheprovisionsofArticle15.6(commencingwithSection31855).Thissectionshallbeapplicableifamajorityofallthemembersoftheboardofsupervisorsvotetoadoptaresolutionsotodoandamajorityofthemembersoftheaffectedclassorclassesvotingatanelectionheldduring1974,withmorethan50percentofthemembersparticipating,favortheterminationofretirementbenefitsundersocialsecurity.Theresolutionmayspecifyadatesubsequenttothedateofadoptionoftheresolutionastheoperativedateforthissection.

(b)(1)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthischapter,thecurrentservicepensionorthecurrentservicepensioncombinedwiththepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionformemberspurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficient,whenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuity,toequalthefractionofone-fiftiethofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthoppositetheageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,inthefollowingtablemultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcurrentserviceoryearsofcurrentandpriorservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,butinnoeventshallthetotalretirementallowanceexceedthemember’sfinalcompensation.

Age at retirement Fraction 50 0.7454 501/4 0.7561 501/2 0.7668 503/4 0.7775 51 0.7882 51 1/4 0.7998 51 1/2 0.8114 51 3/4 0.8230 52 0.8346 521/4 0.8472

Article8,§31676.14.-§31676.15. 204

Age at retirement Fraction 521/2 0.8598 523/4 0.8724 53 0.8850 53 1/4 0.8987 53 1/2 0.9125 53 3/4 0.9262 54 0.9399 54 1/4 0.9549 54 1/2 0.9699 54 3/4 0.9849 55 1.0000 55 1/4 1.0111 55 1/2 1.0223 55 3/4 1.0335 56 1.0447 561/4 1.0597 561/2 1.0747 563/4 1.0898 57 1.1048 57 1/4 1.1207 57 1/2 1.1367 57 3/4 1.1526 58 1.1686 581/4 1.1855 581/2 1.2025 583/4 1.2195 59 1.2365 59 1/4 1.2547 59 1/2 1.2729 59 3/4 1.2911 60 1.3093 601/4 1.3221 601/2 1.3350 603/4 1.3479 61 1.3608 611/4 1.3736 611/2 1.3865 613/4 1.3994 62 1.4123 621/4 1.4251

Article8,§31676.15.205

Age at retirement Fraction 621/2 1.4380 623/4 1.4509 63 1.4638 631/4 1.4766 631/2 1.4895 633/4 1.5024 64 1.5153 641/4 1.5281 641/2 1.5410 643/4 1.5539 65 1.5668

(2)Inanycountyoperatingunderthissectionanylimitationinanyprovisionsofthischapterupontheamountofcompensationusedforcomputingratesofcontributionsshallbedisregarded.

(c)WheneverinthischapterreferenceismadetosurvivorshipandotherbenefitsandrightsunderSection31676.1,thesameshallapplytothissection.

(d)Notwithstandingtherequirementsofsubdivision(a),theprovisionsofthissectionshallbeapplicableinacountyofthe12thClass,asdescribedinSections28020and28033,aftertheboardofsupervisorsofthecountyadoptsaresolutiontodoso.TheprovisionsadoptedpursuanttothissubdivisionmaybemadeapplicablewithoutregardtotherequirementofimplementingArticle15.6(commencingwithSection31855)ortherequirementofterminatingbenefitsundersocialsecurity.Theprovisionsadoptedpursuanttothissubdivisionshallapplyonly to either of the following:

(1)Membersfirsthiredbythecountyonandafterthedatethissectionbecomesoperativeinthecounty.

(2)MembersrepresentedbyServiceEmployeesInternationalUnionLocal521whoseretirementbenefitswereestablishedpursuanttoSection31676.16priortothedatethissectionbecomesoperativeinthecounty.

(AmendedbyStats.1976,Ch.1436,Sec.25)(AmendedbyStats.2007,Ch.86(AB1255),Sec.2.–UrgencyStatute,EffectiveJuly17,

2007)

§31676.16. Additional pension; application; calculationThissectionmaybemadeapplicableinanycountyonthefirstdayofthemonthafter



Article8,§31676.15.-§31676.16. 206

Age at retirement Fraction 50 0.713 501/4 0.725 501/2 0.737 503/4 0.749 51 0.761 51 1/4 0.775 51 1/2 0.788 51 3/4 0.801 52 0.814 521/4 0.828 521/2 0.843 523/4 0.857 53 0.871 53 1/4 0.886 53 1/2 0.902 53 3/4 0.917 54 0.933 54 1/4 0.950 54 1/2 0.966 54 3/4 0.983 55 1.000 55 1/4 1.007 55 1/2 1.013 55 3/4 1.020 56 1.026 561/4 1.033 561/2 1.039 563/4 1.046 57 1.052 57 1/4 1.059 57 1/2 1.065 57 3/4 1.072 58 1.078 581/4 1.085 581/2 1.091 583/4 1.098 59 1.105 59 1/4 1.111 59 1/2 1.118 59 3/4 1.124

Article8,§31676.16.207

Age at retirement Fraction 60 1.131 601/4 1.137 601/2 1.144 603/4 1.150 61 1.157 611/4 1.163 611/2 1.170 613/4 1.176 62 1.183 621/4 1.189 621/2 1.196 623/4 1.202 63andover 1.209

Thefractionshereinsetforthshallbeuseduntiladjustedbyeachboardforitsretirementsysteminaccordancewiththeinterestandmortalitytablesadoptedbyeachboardwithrespecttoitsretirementsystem.







Age at retirement Fraction 50 1.0000 501/4 1.0125 501/2 1.0250 503/4 1.0375 51 1.0500 51 1/4 1.0625 51 1/2 1.0750 51 3/4 1.0875

Article8,§31676.16.-§31676.17. 208

52 1.1000 521/4 1.1125 521/2 1.1250 523/4 1.1375 53 1.1500 53 1/4 1.1625 53 1/2 1.1750 53 3/4 1.1875 54 1.2000 54 1/4 1.2125 54 1/2 1.2250 54 3/4 1.2375 55 1.2500 55 1/4 1.2625 55 1/2 1.2750 55 3/4 1.2875 56 1.3000 561/4 1.3125 561/2 1.3250 563/4 1.3375 57 1.3500 57 1/4 1.3625 57 1/2 1.3750 57 3/4 1.3875 58 1.4000 581/4 1.4125 581/2 1.4250 583/4 1.4375 59 1.4500 59 1/4 1.4625 59 1/2 1.4750 59 3/4 1.4875 60andover 1.5000

Inanycountyoperatingunderthissection,anylimitationsinanyprovisionsofthischapterupontheamountofcompensationusedforcomputingratesofcontributionsshallbedisregarded.


Thissectionshallapplytomembersemployedbythecountyonorafterthedatethissectionbecomesoperativeinthecounty.



Article8,§31676.17.209




Age at retirement Fraction 50 1.0000 501/4 1.0125 501/2 1.0250 503/4 1.0375 51 1.0500 51 1/4 1.0625 51 1/2 1.0750 51 3/4 1.0875 52 1.1000 521/4 1.1125 521/2 1.1250 523/4 1.1375 53 1.1500 53 1/4 1.1625 53 1/2 1.1750 53 3/4 1.1875 54 1.2000 54 1/4 1.2125 54 1/2 1.2250 54 3/4 1.2375 55 and over 1.2500

Inanycountyoperatingunderthissection,anylimitationsinanyprovisionsofthischapterupontheamountofcompensationusedforcomputingratesofcontributionsshallbedisregarded.




Article8,§31676.18. 210




Age at retirement Fraction 50 1.0000 501/4 1.0175 501/2 1.0350 503/4 1.0525 51 1.0700 51 1/4 1.0875 51 1/2 1.1050 51 3/4 1.1225 52 1.1400 521/4 1.1575 521/2 1.1750 523/4 1.1925 53 1.2100 53 1/4 1.2275 53 1/2 1.2450 53 3/4 1.2625 54 1.2800 54 1/4 1.2975 54 1/2 1.3150 54 3/4 1.3325 55andover 1.3500





Article8,§31676.19.211

§31676.3. Application to certain counties; prior service credit; election of memberThissectionshallapplyonlytocountiescomingundertheprovisionsofSection31676.1

priortoJanuary1,1953.AmembershallreceivenocreditforpriorservicesubsequenttoJune30,1921,incalculatingaretirementallowancepursuanttoSection31676.1unless,within90daysaftertheeffectivedateofthissection,hefileswiththeboardhiswrittenelectiontopayintotheretirementfundsixdollars($6)foreachmonthofpriorservicesubsequenttoJune30,1921,forwhichheclaimscredit,andunlesshemakessuchpaymentsasprovidedinthisarticle.


§31676.56. Members with 30 years’ serviceInanycountycomingundertheprovisionsofSection31676.1subsequenttoJanuary1,

1953,anymemberhavinginexcessof30yearsofservicemaywithin90daysfromtheeffectivedateofthisamendmentelectinwritingnottocomeundertheprovisionsofSection31676.1.


§31676.6. Additional salary deductions; election of memberThissectionshallapplyonlytocountiescomingundertheprovisionsofSection31676.1

priortoJanuary1,1953.IfamemberfilesanelectionpursuanttoSection31676.3anddoesnotfileanelectionpursuanttoSection31676.4,andeitherhehasnoaccumulatedadditionalcontributionstohiscreditortheaccumulatedcontributionstohiscreditarelessthanpaymentsdueforcreditforpriorservicesubsequenttoJune30,1921,theamountdueorbalancethereofshallbepaidbyadditionalsalarydeductionsintheamountsspecifiedbythememberbutinnocaselessthansixdollars($6)permonth.Thetotalamountdueshallbepaidpriortotheeffectivedateofhisretirement.


§31676.9. Prior service pension in calculating benefits; election of memberIneverycountyinwhicharetirementsystemwasestablishedpriortoJanuary1,1952,

thepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionformemberspurchasedbythecountyordistrict,equaltoone-sixtiethoftheaverageannualcompensationearnablebyhimduringanythreeyearsofserviceelectedbythememberatorbeforethetimehefilesanapplicationforretirement, or, if he fails to elect, during the three years immediately preceding his retirement, multipliedbythenumberofyearsofpriorservicecreditedtohim.


§31676.95. Pension increases and decreases; pension calculation; application of sectionIneverycountycomingundertheprovisionsofSection31676.1subsequenttoJanuary1,

1953,everycurrentservicepensionandpriorservicepensionpayablefortimecommencingontheeffectivedateofthissectiontoanymemberwhowasretiredpriortosaideffectivedatebyreasonofhavingattainedtheageofcompulsoryretirement,isherebyincreasedtotheamountitwouldbeiftheprovisionsofthischapter,includingSections31676.1and31760.1,astheyexistedonthedatethatSection31676.1becameapplicabletothemembers’retirementsystem,hadbeenineffectonthedateoftheactualretirementofthemember;butthissectiondoesnotauthorizeanydecreaseinanysuchpension,nordoesthissectiongiveanysuchretiredmember,orhissuccessorsininterest,anyclaimagainstthecountyordistrictforanyincreaseinanypensionpaidorpayablefortimepriortoitseffectivedate.Calculationsofpensionsunderthissectionshallbemadeonthebasisofcurrentinterestrateandmortalitytables.

Thissectionshallnotapplytoanyretirementsystemestablishedundertheprovisionsofthischapter,nortothemembersorretiredmembersofanysuchsystemunlessanduntilthegoverningboardofthecountyordistrictcoveredbysuchretirementsystemelectstobe

Article8,§31676.3.-§31676.95. 212

subjecttotheprovisionsofthissectioninthemannerprovidedbyArticle2ofthischapterwithrespecttotheestablishmentofaretirementsystemhereunder;exceptthatanelectionamongtheemployeesisnotrequired.


§31676.96. Previously retired members; increase in pensionsIneverycountycomingundertheprovisionsofSection31676.1,everycurrentservice

pensionandpriorservicepensionpayableforthetimecommencingonthefirstdayofthemonthaftertheeffectivedateofthissectiontoanymemberwhowasretiredpriortosucheffectivedateisherebyincreasedtotheamountitwouldbeiftheprovisionsofthischapter,includingSection31676.1,astheyexistontheeffectivedateofthissectionhadbeenineffectonthedateoftheactualretirementofthemember,butthissectiondoesnotauthorizeanydecreaseinanysuchpension,nordoesthissectiongiveanysuchretiredmember,orhissuccessors in interest, any claim against the county or district for any increase in any pension paidorpayablefortimepriortoitseffectivedate.Calculationsofpensionsunderthissectionshallbemadeonthebasisofcurrentinterestrateandmortalitytables.

Thissectionshallnotapplytoanyretirementsystemestablishedundertheprovisionsofthischapter,nortothemembersorretiredmembersofanysuchsystemunlessanduntilthegoverningboardofthecountyordistrictcoveredbysuchretirementsystemelectstobesubjecttotheprovisionsofthissectioninthemannerprovidedbyArticle2(commencingwithSection31500)ofthischapterwithrespecttotheestablishmentofaretirementsystemhereunder,exceptthatanelectionamongtheemployeesisnotrequired.


§31676.97. Pension increases; calculationIneverycountycomingundertheprovisionsofSection31676.1subsequenttoJanuary

1,1964,andpriortoOctober1,1964,everycurrentservicepensionandpriorservicepensionpayablefortimecommencingOctober1,1965,isherebyincreasedtotheamountitwouldbeiftheprovisionsofthischapter,includingSections31676.1and31760.1,astheyexistedonthedatethatSection31676.1becameapplicabletothemembers’retirementsystem,hadbeenineffectonthedateoftheactualretirementofthemember;butthissectiondoesnotauthorizeanydecreaseinanysuchpension,nordoesthissectiongiveanysuchretiredmember,orhissuccessors in interest, any claim against the county or district for any increase in any pension paidorpayablefortimepriortoOctober1,1965.Calculationsofpensionsunderthissectionshallbemadeonthebasisofcurrentinterestrateandmortalitytables.


§31676.98. Retirees under former system, inclusion in new system; adjustment of contribution ratesAnycountyundertheprovisionsofSection31676.1,ontheeffectivedateofthissection,

whoseretiredemployeeswerenotincludedinthebenefitsofSection31676.1onthedatethecountyordistrictadoptedtheprovisionsofSection31676.1,maynowincludeunderSection31676.1allretireeswhoretiredduringtheperiodoftimefromtheestablishmentofsuchretirementsystemandthedatesuchcountyordistrictpassedaresolutionbringingthecountyordistrictundertheprovisionsofSection31676.1,subjecttothefollowingconditions:

(a)Thebenefitsofthissectionshallnotapplytoanybeneficiaryorsuccessorininterestofanydeceasedmemberandshallapplyonlytothelivingretiredmembersonthedatesuchsectionisadoptedbyresolutionofthecountyordistrict.

(b)Noincreases,costoflivingadjustmentsorgrantstosuchretiredmembersshallbe

Article8,§31676.95.-§31676.98.213

considered in the calculations of the retirement allowance, and only such pensions received bytheretiredmembers,computedatthedateoftheoriginalretirementofthemembersshallbeusedinthecomputationofanysuchbenefits.Alllivingretiredmembersshallhavetheirbenefitscomputedasgeneralmembers.Calculationsshallbemadeonthebasisofcurrentinterestratesandmortalitytables.

(c) This section shall not decrease any such pension or retirement allowance, nor shall thissectiongiveanysuchretiredmembersortheirbeneficiaryorsuccessorininterest,anyclaim against the county or district for any increases in pension or retirement allowance paid or payableforthetimepriortotheeffectivedateofthissection.

(d)Thissectionshallnotapplytoanyretirementsystemestablishedundertheprovisionsofthischapter,nortothemembersorretiredmembersofsuchsystemunlessanduntilthegoverningboardofthecountyordistrictadopts,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthatthissectionshallbecomeapplicableinsuchcountyordistrict.Uponadoptiontheeffectivedateshallbethefirstofthemonthfollowingsuchdateofadoption.

Acountyordistrictupontheadoptionofthebenefitsprescribedbythissectionshalldetermineandshallprescribeincreasesinemployerormemberratesofcontributionormakesuchotheradjustmentsasitdeemsappropriatetofullyfundsuchbenefitsonasoundactuarialbasis.


§31677. Reduction of benefits on retirement before age 60Ifamemberretiresforservicebeforeattainingage60,thepriorservicepensionshallbe

reducedtothatamountwhichthevalueofthepensionsasdeferredtoage60willpurchaseattheactualageofretirement.


§31678. Retirement association members; calculation of retirement allowances under Sections 31676.12 to 31676.15Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,anymemberofaretirement

associationestablishedinanycountypursuanttothischapter,whouponretirementreceivesaretirementallowancecalculatedinaccordancewithSections31676.1,31676.11,31676.12,31676.13,31676.14,and31676.15,shallhavehisorherretirementallowancecalculatedundersuchsectiononlyfortheperiodoftimethatthesectionwaseffectiveinthecounty.

TheLegislaturerecognizesthatcountiessubjecttothischaptermayadopttwoormoreof the enumerated retirement allowance calculation sections when changing from a section providingalesserallowancetoasectionprovidingalargerallowanceandtherebycreatesawindfall for a person who retires immediately after the adoption of a section providing the largerallowancebecausetheretirementallowanceiscalculatedasifthesectionhadbeenineffectduringtheentirecareerofthemember.Thepurposeofthissectionistopreventthispractice.ThissectionshallapplyonlytopersonswhobecomemembersoftheretirementsystemafterJanuary1,1981.


§31678.1. Counties of the 14th class: application of Section 31678; conditions (Kern)(a)Inacountyofthe14thclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter

1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28035,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,Section31678shallonlybeapplicabletopersonswhofirstbecamemembersoftheretirementsystemonandafterJanuary1,1994.

(b)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinthatcountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,by

Article8,§31676.98.-§31678.1. 214

resolution,adoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthatcounty.(c)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,thissectionshallonlyapplytomembers

whoretireonorafterJanuary1,1994.(AddedbyStats.1997,Ch.64(AB1365),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1999,Ch.42(AB455),Sec.1)

§31678.2. Application of retirement benefits; service credits; date specified in resolution(a)NotwithstandingSection31678oranyotherprovisionofthischapter,aboardof

supervisorsoragoverningbodyofadistrictmay,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makeanysectionofthischapterprescribingaformulaforcalculationofretirementbenefitsapplicabletoservicecreditearnedonandafterthedatespecifiedintheresolution,whichdatemaybeearlierthanthedatetheresolutionisadopted.

(b)Aresolutionadoptedpursuanttothissectionmay,ifapprovedinamemorandumofunderstandingexecutedbytheboardofsupervisorsandtheemployeerepresentatives,requirememberstopayallorpartofthecontributionsbyamemberoremployer,orboth,thatwouldhavebeenrequiredifthesectionorsectionsspecifiedinsubdivision(a),asadoptedbytheboardorgoverningbody,hadbeenineffectduringtheperiodoftimedesignatedintheresolution.Thepaymentbyamembershallbecomepartoftheaccumulatedcontributionsofthemember.

(c)Thissectionshallonlybeapplicabletomemberswhoretireonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a).

(d)OnorafterJanuary1,2013,thissectionisinoperativepursuanttoSection7522.44.(AddedbyStats.2000,Ch.495(SB1696),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.34)

§31678.3. Orange County; formula for calculation of retirement benefits; authority to adopt formula; application to employees of a county and to employees of any district within a county(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,aresolutionadoptedbya

boardofsupervisorstomakeanyformulaforcalculationofretirementbenefitsdescribedinthissectionapplicabletotheemployeesofthecountydoesnotapplytomakethatformulaapplicabletotheemployeesofanydistrictwithinthecounty.Thegoverningbodyofadistrictmayelect,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,tomakeanyformulaforcalculationofretirementbenefitsdescribedinthissectionapplicabletotheemployeesofthedistrictirrespectiveofwhethertheboardofsupervisorshasmadethatelectionwithrespecttoemployeesofthecounty.

(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,theboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofadistrictmay,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,pursuanttoamemorandumofunderstandingmadeundertheMeyers-Milias-BrownAct(Chapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle2),doanyorallofthefollowing:

(1)ApplySection31621.8,31676.17,31676.18,or31676.19forthecalculationofretirementbenefitsforgeneralmemberstotheemployeesinabargainingunitcomprisedofgeneralmembers.

(2)ApplySection31664.1forthecalculationofretirementbenefitsforsafetymemberstotheemployeesinabargainingunitcomprisedofsafetymembers.

(3)ApplySection31664forthecalculationofretirementbenefitsforsafetymemberstotheemployeesoftheProbationServicesUnitandtheProbationSupervisoryManagementUnit.

(c)Anynonrepresentedemployeeswithinsimilarjobclassificationsasemployees

Article8,§31678.1.-§31678.3.215

inabargainingunitdescribedinsubdivision(b)orsupervisorsandmanagersthereofshallbesubjecttothesameformulaforthecalculationofretirementbenefitsapplicabletotheemployeesinthatbargainingunit.

(d)Aresolutionadoptedpursuanttosubdivision(b)mayrequirememberstopayaportionofthecontributionsattributabletopastserviceliability,thatwouldhavebeenrequiredifthebenefitsspecifiedintheresolution,asadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofthedistrict,hadbeenineffectduringtheperiodoftimedesignatedintheresolution.AnypaymentsrequiredofrepresentedemployeesshallfirstbeapprovedinamemorandumofunderstandingmadeundertheMeyers-Milias-BrownActandexecutedbytheboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofthedistrictandtheemployeerepresentatives.Thecontributionspaidbyamemberpursuanttothissubdivisionshallbecomepartoftheaccumulatedcontributionsofthemember.

(e)Thissectionshallonlybeapplicabletomemberswhoretireonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(b).

(f)Theboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofadistrictmaynotunilaterallyimplementaretirementformulaforanyofitsbargainingunits.

(g)ThissectionshallapplyonlyinOrangeCounty.(h)BeginningJanuary1,2013,ifanyprovisionofthissectionconflictswiththe

CaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,theprovisionsofthatactshallprevail.



§31678.31. Orange County; authority to require written election of pension calculations(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,theboardofsupervisorsorthe

governingbodyofadistrictwithinthecountymay,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,dothe following:

(1)Requireanemployeehiredafterapprovaloftheresolution,toelectinwriting,eitherthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19orthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01.Theelectionshallbemadewithin45calendardaysofbeginningemploymentwiththecountyorthedistrict.IfanemployeedoesnotelectthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19within45daysofbeginningemployment,theemployeeshallbedeemedtohaveelectedthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01.Anemployeeshallnotbepermittedtorescindhisorherelectionunlesstheboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofadistrict,throughtheadoptionofasubsequentordinanceorresolutionbymajorityvote,makesaprovisionpermittingtheemployeetorescindtheelectionapplicabletothecountyordistrict.

(2)RequireacurrentemployeeofthecountyordistrictcoveredbythepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19,hiredbeforeapprovaloftheresolution,within180calendardaysofapprovaloftheresolutiontomake,attheemployee’soption,aone-timewrittenelectiontoterminatetheapplicationofthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19forfutureserviceandelectinsteadthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01forfutureservice.Thiselectionshallbesignedbytheemployee.Priortosigninganelection,acurrentemployeewhochoosestoterminatethepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19andelectsinsteadthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01,shallbeprovidedbythecountyordistrictgoverningbodywithawrittenexplanationoftheeffectandimpactof

Article8,§31678.3.-§31678.31. 216

thetermination.AcurrentemployeewhochoosestoterminatethepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19shallberequiredtosignanaffidavitstatingthattheemployeehasbeenfully informed regarding the effect of the termination and understands that the termination is irrevocable.Theaffidavitshallalsostatethattheemployeehaschosenterminationofhisorherownfreewillandwasnotcoercedintoterminationbytheemployeroranyotherperson.Anemployeeshallnotbepermittedtorescindhisorherelectionunlesstheboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofadistrict,throughtheadoptionofasubsequentordinanceorresolutionbymajorityvote,makesaprovisionpermittingtheemployeetorescindtheelectionapplicabletothecountyordistrict.

(3)Requireacurrentemployeeofthecountyordistrict,hiredbeforeapprovaloftheresolution,butnotcoveredbythepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19,whoafterapprovaloftheresolutionbecomeseligibleforthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19,tomakeaone-timewrittenelectionbetweenthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19forfutureserviceandthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01forfutureservice.Theelectionshallbemadewithin45calendardaysofbecomingeligibleforthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19.Theelectionshallbesignedbytheemployee.Priortosigningtheelection,anemployeewhodoesnotelectthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19andelectsinsteadthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01shallbeprovidedbythecountyorthedistrictgoverningbodywithawrittenexplanationoftheeffectandimpactoftheelection.AnemployeewhodoesnotchoosethepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19shallberequiredtosignanaffidavitstatingthattheemployeehasbeenfullyinformedregardingtheeffectoftheelectionandunderstandsthattheelectionisirrevocable.Theaffidavitshallalsostatethattheemployeehaschosentheelectionofhisorherownfreewillandwasnotcoercedintotheelectionbytheemployeroranyotherperson.Anemployeeshallnotbepermittedtorescindhisorherelectionunlesstheboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofadistrict,throughtheadoptionofasubsequentordinanceorresolutionbymajorityvote,makesaprovisionpermittingtheemployeetorescindtheelectionapplicabletothecountyordistrict.Failuretomakeanelectionwithin45calendardaysshallbeconsideredcauseforterminationofemploymentuntiltheemployeedescribedinthisparagraphhasmadetherequiredelection.

(b)Theretirementallowanceforservicerenderedpriortotheeffectivedateoftheelectionunderparagraph(2)or(3)ofsubdivision(a)foranemployeecoveredbyanyotherpensioncalculationshallbecalculatedundertheemployee’spriorpensioncalculation.Anyemployeewhohasmadeanelectionshallnotbeeligibleforretirementunlesstheemployeemeetstheminimumrequirementsoftheprovisionorprovisionspursuanttotheelectionapplicableatthedateofretirement.

(c)(1)AnelectionforthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01byanyemployeehiredbeforeapprovaloftheresolutionshallincludethesignatureofthedesignatedbeneficiaryoftheemployee’spensionacknowledgingtheelection,orshallincludeawrittendeclarationofoneormoreofthefollowingasmaybeapplicable:

(A)Thebeneficiaryhasnoidentifiablecommunitypropertyinterestinthebenefit.

(B)Theemployeedoesnotknow,andhastakenallreasonablestepstodetermine,thewhereaboutsofthebeneficiary.

(C)Thebeneficiaryhasbeenadvisedoftheelectionandhasrefusedtosignthewrittenacknowledgment.

(D)Thebeneficiaryisincapableofexecutingtheacknowledgmentbecauseofanincapacitatingmentalorphysicalcondition.

Article8,§31678.31.217

(2)Thepurposeofthissubdivisionistonotifythebeneficiary,includingtheemployee’sspouseordomesticpartner,ofanelectionmadebytheemployeethatmayaffecttheentitlementofthebeneficiary.Inadditiontotheforegoing,ifthedesignatedbeneficiaryofanemployee’spensionisaspouseordomesticpartneroftheemployee,theelectionshallalsoevidenceagreementtotheelectionbythespouseordomesticpartner.

(3)Apersonwhoknowinglyprovidesfalseinformationinthewrittendeclarationsubmittedpursuanttoparagraph(1)shallbesubjecttoacivilpenaltyofnotlessthanonethousanddollars($1,000)andnotmorethantwenty-fivethousanddollars($25,000),inadditiontoanycivilremediesavailabletotheboard.Anactiontoimposeacivilpenaltypursuanttothisparagraphmaybebroughtbyanypublicprosecutorinthenameofthepeopleofthestate.

(d)IntheeventtheemployeeelectsthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01,theemployeeshallbeeligibletoreceiveacontributionfromthecountyordistrictbasedontheemployee’scontributiontoadefinedcontributionprogram.

(e)Inadditiontoemployeesrepresentedbybargainingunits,anyotheremployeesnotrepresentedbyabargainingunit,aswellassupervisors,managers,andexecutives,maybesubjecttosubdivision(a)pursuanttotheresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a).

(f)Thissectionshallapplyonlytomemberswhoretireonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a).

(g)Thissectionshallnotapplytosafetymembers.(h)Aresolutionadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsundersubdivision(a)shallnot

applytotheemployeesofanydistrictwithinthecounty.Thegoverningbodyofadistrictmayelect,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,tomakethissectionapplicabletotheemployeesofthedistrictirrespectiveofwhethertheboardofsupervisorshasmadethatelectionapplicabletoemployeesinthecounty.

(i)AresolutionadoptedpursuanttothissectionmayrequireanymemberthatelectsorisdeemedtohaveelectedthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01topayadditionalmembercontributionsbeyondthosemembercontributionsrequiredunderSection31621.Theseadditionalcontributionsshallnotresultinanadditionalbenefittothemember.However,theadditionalcontributionspaidbyamemberpursuanttotheauthoritygrantedbythissubdivisionshallbecomepartoftheaccumulatedcontributionsofthememberforthefollowing purposes only:

(1)Fundingtheannuityportionofthemember’sretirementallowance.(2)Withdrawalofcontributionsbythememberuponthemember’swithdrawalfrom,

andterminationofmembershipin,theretirementsystem.(j)Anypersonemployedsubsequenttotheeffectivedateofaresolutionadoptedunder

subdivision(a)whowouldotherwisequalifyasamembershallnotbecomeamemberuntilheorshecertifieshisorherelection,orotherwiseasdescribedabovehasbeendeemedtohaveelected,tobecoveredbythepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01orthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19.Oncetheelectionismadeorisdeemedtohavebeenmade,theemployeewillbecomeamemberretroactivetothedateofhire.AnyemployeewhosubsequentlyotherwisebecomeseligibleforthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19subsequenttotheeffectivedateofaresolutionadoptedundersubdivision(a)shallcontinuetobecoveredbyanyimmediatelyprecedingretirementplantowhichheorshewasentitledfromthecountyordistrictuntilheorshecertifieshisorherelectiontobecoveredbythepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.01orthepensioncalculationstatedinSection31676.19.

(k)Intheeventthatthefinaldaytomakeanelectionorperformanactdescribedinthissectionfallsonaweekendoronacountyordistrictholiday,asubsequentelectionoractshallbetimelyifmadeorperformedontheimmediatelyfollowingregularbusinessdayofthecountyordistrict.

Article8,§31678.31. 218

(l)ThissectionshallapplyonlyinOrangeCounty.(m)BeginningJanuary1,2013,ifanyprovisionofthissectionconflictswiththe

CaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,theprovisionsofthatactshallprevail.

(AddedbyStats.2009,Ch.362(SB752),Sec.1–UrgencyStatute,EffectiveOctober11,2009)


§31678.4. Applicability of formula for the calculation of retirement benefits Thegoverningbodyofadistrictasdefinedinsubdivision(l)ofSection31468shallnot

electtomakeaformulaforthecalculationofretirementbenefitsapplicabletothepersonnelofthedistrictappointedpursuanttoSection31522.5whoareemployeesoftheretirementsystemunlesstheboardofsupervisorshasmadethatformulaapplicabletopersonnelofthatretirementsystemwhoareemployeesofthecounty.


§31679. Minimum retirement benefitsIneverycountyinwhicharetirementsystemwasestablishedpriortoJanuary1,

1953,ifamemberentersorhasheretoforeenteredtheretirementsystemwithcreditforpriorservice,andhasheretoforeretiredorshallhereafterberetiredafterattainingthecompulsoryretirementage,oratage65with20yearsservice,andhisretirementallowanceislessthanonethousandtwohundreddollars($1,200)ayear,exclusiveofanyannuitybasedonadditionalcontributions,anadditionalamountpurchasedbycontributionsofthecountyordistrictshallbeaddedtohiscombinedannuityandpensionswhichwillcausehistotalretirementallowancetoamounttoonethousandtwohundreddollars($1,200)ayear,exclusiveofanyannuitybasedonadditionalcontributions.


§31680. Payment for service after retirement prohibited; exceptions; independent contractors(a)Amemberretiredforserviceordisabilityshallnotbepaidforanyservicerendered

byhimorhertothecountyordistrictafterthedateofhisorherretirement,except:(1)Asspecificallyprovidedinthischapter.(2)PursuanttoSection31733.(3)Thecountyordistrictmaypayandtheretiredmembermayreceive:

(A)Rewardsforideasorsuggestionsmadebytheretiredmemberfortheimprovementofcountyordistrictactivities.

(B)Compensationforhisorherservicesontheboard.(4)Ifthememberissubsequentlyelectedtocountyofficeafterretirement.

(b)Ashereinusedtheterm“servicesrendered”shallrefertoservicerenderedasanofficeroremployeeofthecountyordistrictandshallnotrefertoservicesperformedbyaretiredofficeroremployeeasanindependentcontractorengagedbyacountyordistrictunderabonafidecontractforserviceswithinthepurviewofSection31000ofthiscode.

(c)BeginningJanuary1,2013,ifanyprovisionofthissectionconflictswiththeCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,theprovisionsofthatactshallprevail.


Article8,§31678.31.-§31680.219

§31680.01. Service as member of governing board of joint agencyAsusedinSection31680servicerenderedasamemberofagoverningboardofajoint

agencycreatedbytwoormorecounties,undertheauthorityofChapter5(commencingwithSection6500)ofDivision7,Title1ofthiscode,shallnotbedeemedservicerenderedacountyordistrict, provided that the county from whose service the employee was retired is a party to the agreementcreatingthejointagency.


§31680.1. Post-retirement service(a)Anypersonwhohasretiredunderthischaptermay,withoutreinstatementfrom

retirementorlossorinterruptionofbenefitsunderthischapter,serveasajuror,electionofficer,fielddeputyforregistrationofvoters,memberoftheboardoftheassociationortemporarilyasajudgewhenassignedbytheChairmanoftheJudicialCouncilandreceiveanyfeespayableforthatservice.

(b)BeginningJanuary1,2013,ifanyprovisionofthissectionconflictswiththeCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,theprovisionsofthatactshallprevail.

(AmendedbyStats.1974,Ch.554,Sec.2,EffectiveAugust27,1974)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.38)

§31680.2. Post-retirement service in positions requiring special skills or knowledge; retired persons who have received unemployment compensation in prior 12-month period(a)Anypersonwhohasretiredmaybeemployedinapositionrequiringspecial

skillsorknowledge,asdeterminedbythecountyordistrictemployinghimorher,fornottoexceed90workingdaysor720hours,whicheverisgreater,inanyonefiscalyearoranyother12-monthperioddesignatedbytheboardofsupervisorsandmaybepaidforthatemployment.Thatemploymentshallnotoperatetoreinstatethepersonasamemberofthissystemortoterminateorsuspendhisorherretirementallowance,andnodeductionsshallbemadefromhisorhersalaryascontributionstothissystem.

(b)(1)Thissectionshallnotapplytoanyretiredpersonwhoisotherwiseeligibleforemploymentunderthissectionif,duringthe12-monthperiodpriortoanappointmentdescribedinthissection,thatretiredpersonreceivesunemploymentinsurancecompensationarisingoutofprioremploymentsubjecttothissectionwiththesameemployer.

(2)Aretiredpersonwhoacceptsanappointmentafterreceivingunemploymentinsurancecompensationasdescribedinthissubdivisionshallterminatethatemploymentonthelastdayofthecurrentpayperiodandshallnotbeeligibleforreappointmentsubjecttothissectionforaperiodof12monthsfollowingthelastdayofemployment.

(3)BeginningJanuary1,2013,ifanyprovisionofthissectionconflictswiththeCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,theprovisionsofthatactshallprevail,exceptthatthelimitonpostretirementemploymentprovidedinsubdivision(a)tothegreaterof90workingdaysor720hoursshallremaineffective.


§31680.3. Post-retirement service in positions requiring special skills or knowledge; retired persons who have received unemployment compensation in prior 12-month period(a)NotwithstandingSection31680.2,anymemberwhohasbeencoveredunderthe

provisionsofSection31751andhasretiredmaybereemployedinapositionrequiringspecial

Article8,§31680.1.-§31680.3. 220

skillsorknowledge,asdeterminedbythecountyordistrictemployingthemember,fornottoexceed120workingdaysor960hours,whicheverisgreater,inanyonefiscalyearandmaybepaidforthatemployment.Thatemploymentshallnotoperatetoreinstatethepersonasamemberofthissystemortoterminateorsuspendtheperson’sretirementallowance,andnodeductionsshallbemadefromtheperson’ssalaryascontributionstothissystem.

(b)(1)Thissectionshallnotapplytoanyretiredmemberwhoisotherwiseeligibleforreemploymentunderthissectionif,duringthe12-monthperiodpriortoanappointmentdescribedinthissection,thatretiredpersonreceivesunemploymentinsurancecompensationarisingoutofprioremploymentsubjecttothissectionwiththesameemployer.



(AmendedbyStats.1991,Ch.153,Sec.1,EffectiveJuly23,1991)(AmendedbyStats.2007,Ch.57(AB775),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.40)

§31680.4. Reemployment; reinstatement to active membership; contingent operationNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,amemberretiredforserviceand

reemployedinacountyordistrictunderthischaptershallbecomeagainanactivememberoftheretirementassociationupon(a)hisorherapplicationtotheboardforreinstatement,(b)thedeterminationoftheboard,baseduponmedicalexamination,thatheorsheisnotincapacitatedforthedutiesassignedtohimorher;and(c)meetingtheconditionsformembershipinArticle4(commencingwithSection31550)aremet.

Forthepurposesofthissection,theeffectivedateofthemember’sreinstatementtoactivemembershipshallbethefirstdayofthemonthfollowingthedateofreemployment.

ExceptaspermittedinSection31680.2or31680.3,theretirementallowanceofthemembershallbecanceledontheeffectivedateofthemember’sreemploymentandshallberesumedonlyuponthesubsequentterminationofthememberfromemployment.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionandSection31680.5operativeinthatcounty.


§31680.5. Reinstatement; contributions and allowances; contingent operation(a)Uponreinstatement,pursuanttoSection31680.4,themember’srateofcontributions

andretirementallowanceuponsubsequentretirementshallbedeterminedasifthememberwerefirstenteringthesystem.

Solelyforthepurposeofdeterminingthemember’seligibilityforserviceretirementunderthissection,serviceshallincludethemember’screditedservicepriortoreinstatement.

(b)Themember’sallowanceuponhisorherserviceordisabilityretirementorotherterminationsubsequenttothereinstatementshallbethesumof(1)hisorherretirementallowancecalculatedonthebasisofcreditedservicerenderedafterreinstatementinaccordancewiththeformulaapplicabletohimorherplus(2)hisorherretirementallowanceasitwaspriortoreinstatement,adjustedbyanychangeafterreinstatementintheprovisionsgoverning

Article8,§31680.3.-§31680.5.221

the calculation of his or her allowance which would have applied to him or her had he or she continuedinretirement.

TheretirementallowanceotherwisepayableunderthissectiontoamemberwhoseallowancepriortoreinstatementwaspaidpursuanttohisorherelectionunderSection31810shallbereducedasprovidedinSection31810.However,foramemberreinstatedpursuanttoSection31680.4priortoattainingage62,thereductionrequiredbySection31810shallbetheamount which is the actuarial value of the increase in the allowance from date of retirement to dateofreinstatement.

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,theretirementallowancepayabletoanymembersubjecttothissectionforanycreditedserviceforwhicharetirementallowancewaspaidpriortoreinstatementshallnotbelessthantheretirementallowancewhichwouldhavebeenpayableonthedateofthesubsequentretirementhadthemembernotbeenreinstated,adjusted,however,byanyreductionunderthissectionbecauseofanelectionunderSection31810.

(c)NotwithstandingArticle10(commencingwithSection31720),uponretirementfordisabilitysubsequenttoreinstatement,amembershallreceiveadisabilityretirementallowanceas follows:

(1)Aservice-connecteddisabilityallowanceshallbeequaltoone-halfofhisorherfinalcompensationoranallowancecomputedasprescribedbysubdivision(b),whicheverisgreater.

(2)Anonservice-connecteddisabilityallowanceshallbecomputedusingthemethodprescribedbysubdivision(b).

(d)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionandSection31680.4operativeinthatcounty.


§31680.6. Extension of time for which retired persons may be employed in special skill or knowledge positions; retired persons who have received unemployment compensation in prior 12-month period(a)NotwithstandingSection31680.2,anycountysubjecttoSection31680.2may,upon

adoptionofaresolutionbyamajorityvotebytheboardofsupervisors,extendtheperiodoftimeprovidedforinSection31680.2forwhichapersonwhohasretiredmaybeemployedinapositionrequiringspecialskillsorknowledge,asdeterminedbythecountyordistrictemployinghimorher,nottoexceed120workingdaysor960hours,whicheverisgreater,inanyonefiscalyearoranyother12-monthperioddesignatedbytheboardofsupervisorsandmaybepaidforthatemployment.Thatemploymentshallnotoperatetoreinstatethepersonasamemberofthissystemortoterminateorsuspendhisorherretirementallowance,andnodeductionsshallbemadefromhisorhersalaryascontributionstothissystem.

(b)(1)Thissectionshallnotapplytoanyretiredpersonwhoisotherwiseeligibleforemploymentunderthissectionif,duringthe12-monthperiodpriortoanappointmentdescribedinthissection,thatretiredpersonreceivesunemploymentinsurancecompensationarisingoutofprioremploymentsubjecttothissectionwiththesameemployer.



Article8,§31680.5.-§31680.6. 222


§31680.7. Reemployment after retirement; discontinuance of allowance; reinstatement; determination of benefits; survivor’s allowance; inapplicability to early retiree; operative on adoption by county(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,anypersonwhohasbeenretiredfor

servicemaybereemployedbythecountyordistrictfromwhichheorshehasbeenretired.Uponreemployment,themember’sretirementallowanceshallbediscontinued.Theretirementallowancemaybereinstateduponthediscontinuanceofreemployment,asspecifiedinthissection.

(b)(1)Forpurposesofthissection,“originalperiodofemployment’’meanstheperiodofservicewiththecountyordistrictuponwhichthemember’soriginalretirementallowancewasbased.

(2)Forpurposesofthissection,“periodofreemployment”meanstheservicesubsequentlyrenderedbythememberafterheorshehasbeenreemployedbythecountyordistrict.

(c)Duringtheperiodofreemployment,themembershallaccrueretirementservicecreditatthesametierorbenefitlevelwhichwasapplicabletothememberduringhisorheroriginalperiodofemployment.Themember’scontributionrateshallbebasedonthesameageatentry,andthesamestatutoryformula,whichwasusedincalculatingthemember’scontributionrateduringhisorheroriginalperiodofemployment.

(d)Uponterminationofthemember’speriodofreemploymentforotherthandeathordisability,themembershallbeginreceivingamonthlyserviceretirementallowancewhichisthe sum of all of the following:

(1)Themonthlyretirementallowancethememberhadbeenreceivingimmediatelypriortothetimethememberwasreemployedbythecountyordistrict.

(2)Anycost-of-livingincreasesthatwouldhavebeenaddedtothemonthlyretirementallowanceifthemember’sallowancehadnotbeendiscontinuedbyreasonofreemployment.

(A)Aretirementallowancebasedontheamountofservicecreditthememberaccruedduringtheperiodofreemployment.Thisadditionalretirementallowanceshallbecalculatedusingthesamebenefitformulaandtieruponwhichthemember’soriginalretirementallowancewascalculated,butshallbebasedonthemember’sageuponterminationoftheperiodofreemploymentandthemember’sfinalcompensationduringthatperiod.

(B)TheretirementallowanceotherwisepayableunderthissectiontoamemberwhoseallowancepriortoreinstatementwaspaidpursuanttoanelectionunderSection31810shallbereducedasprovidedinthatsection.However,foramemberreinstatedpursuanttoSection31680.4priortoattainingage62,thereductionrequiredbySection31810shallbetheamount that is the actuarial value of the increase in the allowance from the date of retirement to thedateofreinstatement.

(e)If,afterreemploymentpursuanttothissection,thememberbecomesdisabledandisgrantedaservice-connectedornon-service-connecteddisabilityretirementbytheboard,themember’sdisabilityretirementallowanceshallbethegreaterofeitherofthefollowing:

(1)Thedisabilityretirementallowancethememberwouldhavebeenentitledto

Article8,§31680.6.-§31680.7.223

receiveifallofthemember’sserviceduringhisorheroriginalperiodofemploymentandsubsequentperiodofreemploymenthadbeencontinuous.

(2)Theserviceretirementallowancethememberwouldhavebeenentitledtoreceiveifthememberhadnotbecomedisabledandhadvoluntarilyterminatedhisorherperiodofreemployment.

(f)(1)Ifthememberdiesduringhisorherperiodofreemployment,andleavesaneligiblesurvivororsurvivorsentitledtoreceiveasurvivor’sallowance,theallowanceshallbethesameamountthatitwouldhavebeenifallofthemember’sserviceduringhisorheroriginalperiodofemploymentandsubsequentperiodofreemploymenthadbeencontinuous.Ifalumpsumdeathbenefitispayabletothemember’sdesignatedbeneficiaryinsteadofasurvivor’sallowance,themember’saccumulatedretirementcontributionsforpurposesofcomputingthedeathbenefitshallbethesumofthecontributionsmadebythememberduring the period of reemployment, plus interest credited thereon, and the excess, if any, of themember’stotalcontributionsduringtheoriginalperiodofemployment,includinginterestcreditedthereon,overthetotalamountofretirementbenefitspaidtothememberbetweenthemember’soriginalretirementfromthecountyordistrictandthemember’sreemploymentpursuanttothissection.

(2)Uponorafterserviceretirement,thecontinuanceshallbepaiduponthemember’sdeathtotherespectiveelectedbeneficiariesfromeachoftheseparateretirementperiodelections.

(g) This section shall not apply to an employee who receives an additional retirement benefitasaninducementtoretireearly.

(h)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthatcounty,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthatcounty.


§31680.8. (Operative date contingent) Reemployment and reinstatement; Additional Retirement benefit; Applicability (Los Angeles)(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,asafetymemberwhowasrequired

toretireforservicebecauseofageduringtheoperativedatesof,andasdescribedin,Section31662.4,31662.6,31662.8,or31663,maybereemployedbythecountyinthesamepositionthatheorsheretiredfromandbereinstatedtoactivemembershipuponallofthefollowing:

(1)Hisorherapplicationtotheboardforreinstatementtoactivemembership.(2)Thedeterminationoftheboard,basedonmedicaladvice,thatthememberisnot

incapacitatedforthedutiesofthepositionassignedtohimorher.(b)Themembershallbereinstatedtoactivemembershipintheplanortierthathe

orsheretiredfrom,effectivethefirstdayofthemonthfollowingthedateofreemployment,andhisorhermembershipshallbethesameasifunbrokenbyretirement.Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,thecreditedserviceofthememberrenderedbothbeforeandafterreinstatementshallbeincludedforthepurposeofdeterminingtheeligibilityofthememberforbenefitsunderthischapter.

(c)Uponreemploymentpursuanttothissection,theretirementallowanceofthemembershallbecancelled.Uponthesubsequentterminationofthememberfromemployment,theretirementallowanceofthemembershallberecalculatedonthebasisofthecreditedservicerenderedbothbeforeandafterreinstatementpursuanttotheformulaapplicabletothememberpriortoreinstatement.Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,thereinstatementrightsconferredbythissectionshallnotentitleapersontoaretirementrightorbenefitthatexceedsthelimitationsintheInternalRevenueCodethatapplytopublicretirementsystems.

(d)Uponreinstatementpursuanttothissection,therateofcontributionofthemember

Article8,§31680.7.-§31680.8. 224

shallbebasedonthesameageatentrythatwasusedincalculatingthecontributionrateofthememberduringhisorheroriginalperiodofemployment.

(e)ThissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyofthefirstclassasdescribedinSection28020andshallnotbecomeoperativeinthatcountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativeinthatcounty.


§31680.9. Application of §31680.8 (Los Angeles)(a)TheapplicationofSection31680.8shallbelimitedbythissection.Section31680.8

shall not apply to either of the following:(1)AsafetymemberwhowasrequiredtoretireasdescribedinSection31663.2.(2)AmemberwhoretiredasasafetymemberdescribedinSection31470.4or31470.6.

(b)ThissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyofthefirstclassasdescribedinSection28020.

(AddedbyStats.2006,Ch.846(AB2863),Sec.4,EffectiveSeptember30,2006)(RepealedbyStats.2008,Ch.21(SB579),Sec.3,EffectiveJune2,2008)

§31681. Minimum retirement benefits in counties exceeding 2,000,000; retroactive operation of sectionIneverycountyhavingapopulationinexcessof2,000,000,theminimumretirement

allowanceforeverymemberwhohasheretoforeorwhoshallbehereafterretiredatcompulsory retirement age and who is credited with 15 or more years of service, including priorservice,oratage65with20yearsofservice,shallreceiveatotalretirementallowanceofnotlessthanonethousandtwohundreddollars($1,200)peryear,exclusiveofanyannuitybasedonadditionalcontributions.ThissectionshallberetroactivelyoperativeasofSeptember22,1951.


§31681.1. Increase in benefits of previously retired members; minimum benefits; claim against county; calculation of benefits(a) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, every retirement allowance

payablefortimecommencingontheeffectivedateofthissectiontoanypreviouslyretiredmemberofasupersededsystemnotestablishedpursuanttoeitherChapter4orChapter5isherebyincreased,byincreaseofthepensionportionthereof,totheamountitwouldbeifthepreviouslyretiredmemberofsuchsupersededsystemhadbeenretiredundertheprovisionsof this chapter, and the provisions of this chapter, as they are in effect on the effective date of thissection,hadbeenineffectatthetimeoftheretirementofthepreviouslyretiredmember,assuming that all of the service with which he was credited at the time of his actual retirement constitutedpriorserviceunderthischapter.

(b)However,ifsuchretirementallowancepayablefortimeaftertheeffectivedateofthissection,asincreasedbysubdivision(a)ofthissection,islessthanonethousandtwohundreddollars($1,200)ayear,andifthepreviouslyretiredmemberofthesupersededsystem(notestablishedpursuanttoeitherChapter4orChapter5)wascreditedatthetimeofhisretirementwith20ormoreyearsofservice,orwasretiredafterattainingthecompulsoryageofretirement,anadditionalamountprovidedbycontributionsofthecountyshallbeaddedto his retirement allowance which will cause his total retirement allowance to amount to one thousandtwohundreddollars($1,200)ayear.

(c)Thissectiondoesnotauthorizeanydecreaseinanysuchretirementallowance,nordoesthissectiongiveanysuchpreviouslyretiredmemberofsuchsupersededretirementsystem, or his successors in interest, any claim against the county for any increase in any

Article8,§31680.8.-§31681.1.225

retirementallowancepaidorpayablefortimepriortoitseffectivedate.Calculationsofretirementallowancesunderthissectionshallbemadeonthebasisofcurrentinterestrateandmortalitytables.


§31681.2. Increase of benefits of members retired prior to January 1, 1948; adoption of section by county boardsEvery retirement allowance payment for time commencing on the effective date of this

sectiontooronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystem,whowasretiredpriortoJanuary1,1948,isherebyincreasedbytwenty-fivedollars($25)permonthiftheretiredmemberisentitledtobecreditedwith20yearsormoreofservice,or,iftheretiredmemberisentitledtobecreditedwithlessthan20yearsofservice,byanamountwhichbearsthesameratiototwenty-fivedollars($25)asthemember’scompletedyearsofservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedbearsto20years.



§31681.4. Increase of benefits of members retired after January 1, 1948, but prior to February 1, 1955; adoption of section by county boardsEvery retirement allowance for time commencing on the effective date of this section to

oronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystem,whowasretiredordiedonorafterJanuary1,1948,butpriortoFebruary1,1955,orsuchotherdatepriortoFebruary1,1955,astheboardofsupervisorsinanycountyshallspecifybyresolution,isherebyincreasedbytwenty-fivedollars($25)permonthiftheretiredmemberisentitledtobecreditedwith20yearsormoreofservice,or,iftheretiredmemberisentitledtobecreditedwithlessthan20yearsofservice,byanamountwhichbearsthesameratiototwenty-fivedollars($25)asthemember’scompletedyearsofservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedbearsto20years.



§31681.5. Increase of benefits payable to retired members for time commencing on September 15, 1961Everyretirementallowancepayablefortimecommencingontheeffectivedateofthis

sectionto,oronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystem,whohasbeenretiredforservice,isherebyincreasedasfollows:

Period during which Percentage of increase retirement became in monthly retirement effective allowance OnorpriortoJune30,1956 10% TwelvemonthsendedJune30,1957 8% TwelvemonthsendedJune30,1958 6% TwelvemonthsendedJune30,1959 4% TwelvemonthsendedJune30,1960 2%

Innoeventshallanyallowancebeincreasedbyanamountgreaterthanfiftydollars

Article8,§31681.1.-§31681.5. 226

($50)amonthnorlessthantendollars($10)amonth.Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardof

supervisorsshall,byordinanceadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31681.51. Increase in retirement and optional death allowances; adoption of section by ordinanceEvery retirement allowance or optional death allowance (including an allowance

payabletoasurvivorofamember)payabletooronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystemwhohasbeenorwasretiredforserviceisherebyincreasedasfollows:


Innoeventshallanyallowancebeincreasedbyanamountgreaterthanfiftydollars($50)amonthnorlessthantendollars($10)amonth.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byordinanceadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31681.52. Increase in retirement and optional death allowances; adoption of section by ordinanceEvery retirement allowance or optional death allowance, including an allowance

payabletoasurvivorofamember,payabletooronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystemwhohasbeenorwasretiredforserviceisherebyincreasedasfollows:


Innoeventshallanyallowancebeincreasedbyanamountgreaterthanseventy-fivedollars($75)amonth.Amemberwithcreditfor10ormoreyearsofserviceinthesystemshallreceivenotlessthantwenty-fivedollars($25)amonth.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byordinanceadoptedbyamajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.


Article8,§31681.5.-§31681.52.227

§31681.53. Increase in retirement and optional death allowances under $500; adoption by county(a)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(b),aretirementallowanceoroptionaldeath

allowance,includinganallowancepayabletoasurvivorofamember,payabletooronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystemwhohasbeenorwasretiredforservicewhichdidnotonJuly1,1976exceedfivehundreddollars($500)permonthisherebyincreased as follows:

Number of years of Percentage of increase county or district in monthly retirement service allowance 25ormoreyears 10% 20-25years 8% 15-20years 6%

(b)Noallowanceshallbeincreasedtomorethanfivehundreddollars($500)permonthpursuanttosubdivision(a).



§31681.54. Retirement or optional death allowance; increase; limitation; adoption by board of supervisors(a)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(b)ofthissection,aretirementallowanceor

optionaldeathallowance,includinganallowancepayabletoasurvivorofamember,payabletooronaccountofanymemberofthissystem,orofasupersededsystem,whoretiredforserviceonorbeforeDecember31,1971,isherebyincreasedasfollows:

Number of years of Percentage of increase county or district in monthly retirement service allowance 25ormoreyears 10% 20-25years 8% 15-20years 6% 10-15years 4%

(b)Noallowanceshallbeincreasedtomorethanfivehundreddollars($500)permonthpursuanttosubdivision(a)ofthissection.



§31681.55. Allowance increases for members who retired or died prior to January 1, 2001Effectivethefirstdayofthefirstmonthafteradoptionofthissectionbytheboardof

supervisors,theallowancepaidwithrespecttoanymemberofthissystemwhoretiredordiedpriortoJanuary1,2001,shallbeincreasedbythepercentagesetforthoppositetheyearofretirement or death in the following schedule:

Period during which retirement or death occurred: Percentage January1,1998,orlater 0.0% 12monthsendingDec.31,1997 1.0%

Article8,§31681.53.-§31681.55. 228

Period during which retirement or death occurred: Percentage 24monthsendingDec.31,1996 2.0% 60monthsendingDec.31,1994 3.0% 60monthsendingDec.31,1989 4.0% 120monthsendingDec.31,1984 5.0% 12monthsendingDec.31,1974,orearlier 6.0%

Thepercentageshallbeappliedtotheallowancepayableontheeffectivedate,andtheallowanceassoincreasedshallbepaidfortimeonandafterthatdateandshallbesubjecttoannualcost-of-livingadjustments.

(b)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinthatcounty.


§31681.6. Increase of benefits to retired employees in certain countiesInanycountywhichmadeSection31676.1oftheGovernmentCodeapplicable

effectiveJuly1,1962,theboardofsupervisorsmaybyresolutionmakethebenefitsprovidedbySection31676.1applicabletoemployeeswhoretiredpriortoJuly1,1962,andaftertheboardofsupervisorsfirstadoptedaresolutionprovidingthatsection31676.1wouldbecomeapplicableprovidedthatsuchemployees’retirementwasbyreasonofhavingreachedtheageofcompulsoryretirementpriortoJuly1,1962.InsuchinstancetheemployeesshallbeentitledtothebenefitsprovidedbySection31676.1asofJuly1,1962.


§31681.7. Temporary increase of benefits; finding by board of supervisorsEveryretirementallowancepayableduringthetimethissectionisoperativeinany

countyto,oronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystem,whohasbeenretiredforserviceshallbeincreasedbyanamountequaltotheproductonedollar($1)timesyearsofservice,nottoexceed20years,timesthenumberinthefollowingtable:

Period during which retirement became effective Multiply by OnorpriortoJune30,1957 2.0 TwelvemonthsendedJune30,1958 1.5 TwelvemonthsendedJune30,1959 1.0 TwelvemonthsendedJune30,1960 0.5

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyexceptasfollows:Theboardofsupervisorsofacountyatanytimeandfromtimetotimemayfindthateconomicconditionsaresuchastorequireeitherthatthisentiresection,orthissectionasappliedtooneormorecategoriesofmembersintheabovetablebeapplicableinsuchcounty.Theboardofsupervisorsofsuchcountyfromtimetotimemayeitherrescindormodifysuchfindingandeitherfindthateconomicconditionsdonotrequirethatthissectionbeapplicableatallinsuchcountyorbeapplicabletoagreater,lesser,ordifferentextentthanpreviouslyfound.Thissectionorthissectionasappliedtooneormorecategoriesofmembersintheabovetable,asthecasemaybe,shallbeapplicableinsuchcountywhenandonlyduringthetimewhensuchfindingisineffect.ThegivingofadditionalretirementbenefitspursuanttothissectionshallcreatenoadditionalcontractualrightsandshallnotprecludethewithdrawalofsuchbenefitseitherbyactionoftheboardofsupervisorsoroftheLegislature.


Article8,§31681.55.-§31681.7.229

§31681.8. Service retirement formula; service credited to nonmember(a)TheboardofsupervisorsinanycountyundertheCountyEmployeesRetirement

Lawof1937mayprovide,effectiveonadatedeterminedbytheboard,forcost-of-livingpayments,inadditiontothosepayableunderarticles16.5and16.6,tomembersofthissystemorasupersededsystemwhoretiredandtotheirsurvivingbeneficiarieswhoarereceivingallowances under this system, provided the following conditions are met:

(1)OnJanuary1oftheyearofadoptionorreadoptionofthissection,theaccumulationsestablishedbySection31870,31870.1,or31870.2,asapplicable,shall,foranymember,equalorexceed25percentinorderforthatmembertobeeligibleforsuchcost-of-livingpayment.

(2)Thepaymentsshallbemadeeitherquarterlyormonthlytothosemembersandsurvivorseligibleforthefirstpayment.

(3)Theamountofeachpaymentisequaltotheproductofasumdeterminedbytheboardofsupervisors,butnottoexceedfifteendollars($15)timesthemember’sfullyearsofcountyservicenotexceeding30years.

(b)ThepaymentsmadepursuanttothissectionandSection31739.5shallbemadeonlyduringthelifetimesofthemembersortheirsurvivorsreceivingallowancesandtonootherperson.

(c)ThepaymentsmadepursuanttothissectionandSection31739.5shallnotbeconsidered as a part of the monthly retirement allowance, optional death allowance, or annual deathallowance,norshallanysuchpaymentsbeconstruedasguaranteeinganysimilarpaymentsinanysubsequentyear.

(d)Notwithstandingsubdivision(a),thepaymentstobeneficiariesofmemberspursuanttoSection31760.1,31765.1,31781.1,or31785ortobeneficiarieswhoelectedacombinedbenefitpursuanttoSection31781.3shallbe60percentofthepaymentswhichotherwisewouldhavebeenpayableundersubdivision(a)tothemembers.

(e)Notwithstandingsubdivision(a),thepaymentstobeneficiariesofmemberswhoelectedoptionalsettlement3pursuanttoSection31763shallbe50percentofthepaymentswhichotherwisewouldhavebeenpayableundersubdivision(a)tothemember.

(f)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyinanyyear,unlessitisadoptedorreadoptedinanyyearbytheboardofsupervisors.Anysuchadoptionorreadoptioninanyparticularyearshallnotbeconstruedtorequireanyadoptionorreadoptioninanysubsequentyear.

Beforeadoptionbytheboardofsupervisorsinanyyear,thecostofthepaymentsauthorizedbythissectionandSection31739.5shallbedeterminedbyaqualifiedactuaryandtheboardofsupervisorsshall,withadviceoftheactuary,provideforthepaymentofsuchcostinsuchmannerastofullyfundthebenefitsonasoundactuarialbasis,includinguseofavailablefundsinthereservesprovidedinSection31592.2withtheapprovaloftheretirementboard,oranincreaseintheemployerratesofcontributions,oracombinationofthesesourcesofpayments.Thisactuarialdeterminationshallbemadeonlyuponauthorizationbytheboardofsupervisors.

Uponadoptionbyanycountyprovidingbenefitspursuanttothissection,ofArticle5.5(commencingwithSection315101)ofthischapter,theboardofretirementshall,instead,paythosebenefitsfromtheSupplementalRetireeBenefitsReserveestablishedpursuanttoSection31510.8.2

(AmendedbyStats.1988,Ch.76,Sec.1)1Renumbered:see,now,Section31610.2Renumbered:see,now,Section31618.

Article8,§31681.8. 230

§31682. County of thirteenth class; supplemental benefits; cost of funding; contingent operation (Ventura)Theboardofretirementofacountyofthe13thclass,asdefinedbySections28020and

28034,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,mayelecttoprovide,byresolution,avestedsupplementalretirementbenefitofonehundredeightdollarsandforty-fourcents($108.44)permonthtoallcurrentandfutureretiredmembersandtheirsurvivorseligibleforanoptionalsettlementorasurvivorsallowanceunderthischapter.

Priortotheadoptionofaresolutionbytheboardofretirementtoprovidethesupplementalretirementbenefitprovidedforinthissection,thecostoffundingthissupplementalretirementbenefitintoperpetuityshallbedeterminedbyaqualifiedactuary.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,bymajorityvote,adoptaresolutionmakingtheprovisionsofthissectionapplicable.

(AddedbyStats.1990,Ch.914,Sec.1,Operativeondateprescribedbyitsownprovisions)

§31682.2. Supplemental retirement benefit eligibility requirements for specified employees (Ventura)Iftheboardofretirementofacountyofthe13thclassadopts,orhasadopted,a

resolutionpursuanttoSection31682,thenforthosepersonswhoarefirstemployedbyanemployerofthesystemonorafterJanuary1,2006,thevestedsupplementalbenefitshallbepaidonlytoaretireewhohasaccruedaminimumoffiveyears’servicecreditinthesystemasaresultofemploymentwiththeemployer,exceptthatamemberwhoreceivesadisabilityretirementthatisserviceconnectedisnotsubjecttothefive-yearservicerequirement.


§31683. County of ninth class; additional benefits (Contra Costa)(a)Theboardofsupervisorsinacountyoftheninthclass,asdefinedinSections28020

and28030,mayelecttoprovideanadditionalbenefittomemberswhoretiredandtotheirsurvivingbeneficiarieswhoarereceivingallowancesunderthissystem,ifthefollowingconditionsaresatisfied:

(1)Aqualifiedactuarydeterminesthecostofthepaymentsauthorizedbythissection.

(2)TheboardofretirementfullyfundsthecostsofthepaymentsbythissectionthroughatransferoffundsfromthereservesasprovidedinSection31592.2.

(b)Thepaymentsshallbemademonthlyonlytothosemembersandtheirsurvivingbeneficiarieswhoarereceivingallowancesunderthissystemonadateestablishedbytheboardofretirement.

(c)Thefirstpaymentshallbeeffectiveonthefirstdayofthefirstfullmonththatoccursafteradoptionofthissectionbytheboardofsupervisors.

(d)Theamountofeachadditionalmonthlybenefittoaretiredmembershallbetwohundreddollars($200).

(e)Notwithstandingsubdivision(d),themonthlypaymentstobeneficiariesofmemberspursuanttoSection31760.1,31765.1,31781.1,or31785,ortobeneficiarieswhoelectacombinedbenefitpursuanttoSection31781.3shallbeonehundredtwentydollars($120).

(f)Notwithstandingsubdivision(d),themonthlypaymentstobeneficiariesofmemberswhoelectedoptionalsettlementthreepursuanttoSection31763shallbeonehundreddollars($100).

(g)Thepaymentsmadepursuanttothissectionshallbeconsideredapartofthe

Article8,§31682.-§31683.231

monthlyallowanceandshallbeincreasedbyanysubsequentcost-of-livingallowanceunderArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31870).


Article 8.4Community Property


§31685. Legal separation or marriage dissolution; date of separation; separation of member and nonmember accounts; nonmember’s rights(a)Uponthelegalseparationordissolutionofmarriageofamember,afterjoining

theretirementsystemasapartytotheproceedingpursuanttoChapter6(commencingwithSection2060)ofPart1ofDivision6oftheFamilyCode,thecourtshallincludeinthejudgmentoracourtorderthedateonwhichthepartiesseparated.

(b)IfthecourtordersthedivisionofthecommunitypropertyinterestinthesystempursuanttoSection2610oftheFamilyCode,theaccumulatedcontributionsandservicecreditattributabletoperiodsofserviceduringthemarriageshallbedividedintotwoseparateanddistinctaccountsinthenameofthememberandnonmember,respectively.Anyservicecreditoraccumulatedcontributionsthatarenotexplicitlyawardedbythejudgmentorcourtordershallbedeemedtheexclusivepropertyofthemember.

(c)Uponreceiptofthecourtorderseparatingtheaccountofthememberandthenonmemberpursuanttothissection,theboardshalldeterminetherightsofthenonmember,takingintoconsiderationthecourtorderandtheaccountofthemember.Theserightsmayinclude the following:

(1)Therighttoaretirementallowance.(2)Therighttoarefundofaccumulatedretirementcontributions.(3)Therighttoredepositaccumulatedcontributionsthatareeligibleforredepositby

themember.(4)Therighttopurchaseservicecreditthatiseligibleforpurchasebythemember.(5)Therighttodesignateabeneficiarytoreceivehisorheraccumulated

contributionspayablewheredeathoccurspriortoretirement.(6)Therighttodesignateabeneficiaryforanyunpaidallowancepayableatthetime

ofthenonmember’sdeath.(d)Inthecapacityofnonmember,thenonmembershallnotbeentitledtoanydisability

retirementallowance.(AddedbyStats.1994,Ch.670,Sec.2)

§31685.01. Benefit determinationBenefitsenumeratedinthisarticleshallbedeterminedinaccordancewiththe

provisionsofthischapterortheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,whicheverisapplicable.


§31685.1. Nonmember“Nonmember,”asusedinthisarticle,meansthespouseorformerspouse,orchildor

otherdependentasorderedbythecourt,ofamember,whoasaresultofpetitioningthecourtforthedivisionofcommunityproperty,hasbeenawardedadistinctandseparateaccount

Article8,§31683.-Article8.4,§31685.1. 232

reflectingspecificcreditedserviceandaccumulatedcontributions.(AddedbyStats.1994,Ch.670,Sec.2)

§31685.2. Nonmember awarded separate account; right to refund; application; effective date; waiver(a)Thenonmemberwhoisawardedaseparateaccountshallhavetherighttoa

refundoftheaccumulatedcontributionsandinterestcreditedintheseparateaccountofthenonmember.

(b)Thenonmembershallfileanapplicationonaformprovidedbythesystemtoobtaintherefund.

(c)TherefundshallbeeffectivewhenthesystemdepositsintheUnitedStatesmailaninitialwarrantdrawninfavorofthenonmemberandaddressedtothelatestaddressforthenonmemberonfilewiththesystem.

(d)Thenonmemberisdeemedtohavepermanentlywaivedallrightsinthesystemandallrightstoanyfutureretirementbenefitspertainingtotheservicecreditaccumulatedcontributions,orboth,whentherefundbecomeseffective.

(e)Thenonmembermaynotcancelarefundonceithasbecomeeffective.(f)Thenonmembershallhavenorighttoelecttoredeposittherefundedaccumulated

contributionsfromthenonmember’saccountaftertherefundiseffective,andshallhavenorighttoredepositortopurchaseservicecreditaftertherefundbecomeseffective.

(g)Ifatthetimeofthemarriagedissolutionorlegalseparation,thememberdoesnothavethenecessaryminimumcreditedservicetoelectdeferredretirement,thenonmembershallreceivearefundoftheaccumulatedcontributionsandcreditedinterestplacedinthenonmember’saccount.

(h)Ifthenonmemberreceivesarefundunderthissection,themembermayelecttoredepositaccumulatedcontributionsandinterestrefundedtothenonmemberandtoreceivecreditfortheservicetimethathadbeenforfeitedbythenonmember.Theelectionshallbemadewithinfiveyearsofreceiptofnoticefromtheboardofeligibilitytoredepositthecontributions.Theboardshallestablishthemannerofpaymentandthetimeperiodwithinwhichtheredepositofcontributionsmaybemade.Theinterestrateestablishedbytheboardshallbethesameasthatchargedtomembersonallotherredeposits.


§31685.3. Nonmember’s redeposit of accumulated contributions and interest previously refunded to member; court determination; member’s rights(a)Thenonmemberwhoisawardedaseparateaccountmayredepositaccumulated

contributionsandinterestpreviouslyrefundedtothememberinaccordancewiththedeterminationofthecourtrequiredbySection31685.

(b)Thenonmembermayredepositonlythoseaccumulatedcontributionsandinterestthatwerepreviouslyrefundedtothememberandthatthecourthasdeterminedtobethecommunitypropertyinterestofthenonmemberintheaccumulatedcontributions.

(c)Ifthenonmemberelectstoredeposit,heorsheshallrepaytheaccumulatedcontributionsandinterest.

(d)Anelectiontoredepositshallbeconsideredanelectiontorepayallaccumulatedcontributionsandinterestpreviouslyrefundedthatthenonmemberisentitledtoredeposit.

(e)Therightofthenonmembertoredepositissubjecttotheregulationsoftheboard.(f)Thememberhasnorighttothecourt-determinednonmembershareofany

previouslyrefundedaccumulatedcontributionsandinterestwhetherornotthenonmemberelectstoredeposituntiltheeffectivedateofanyrefundrequestedbythenonmemberpursuanttoSection31685.2,orthenonmemberdiesbeforeredepositiscompleted.However,anyrightto

Article8.4,§31685.1.-§31685.3.233

redepositpreviouslyrefundedaccumulatedcontributionsandinterestnotexplicitlyawardedtothenonmemberbythejudgmentorcourtordershallbedeemedtheexclusivepropertyofthemember.

(g)Anyredepositbythenonmembershallbemadebylumpsumbeforeretirement.(AddedbyStats.1994,Ch.670,Sec.2)

§31685.4. Service credit; nonmember’s right to purchase community property share; court determination; member’s rights(a)Thenonmembershallhavetherighttopurchaseservicecreditpursuanttothe

determinationofthecourtrequiredbySection31685.(b)Thenonmembermaypurchaseonlythatservicecreditthatthecourthasdetermined

tobethecommunitypropertyshareofthenonmemberspouse.(c)Ifthenonmemberelectstopurchaseservicecredit,heorsheshallpay,priorto

retirement,thecontributionsandinterestpursuanttotheregulationsoftheboard.(d)Thenonmembershallhavenorighttopurchasetheservicecreditaftertheeffective

dateofarefundoftheaccumulatedcontributionsintheseparateaccountofthenonmember.(e)Thememberhasnorighttothecourt-determinednonmembershareofthe

servicecreditwhetherornotthenonmemberelectstopurchasetheservicecredituntiltheeffectivedateofanyrefundrequestedbythenonmemberpursuanttoSection31685.2,orthenonmemberdiesbeforetheservicecreditispurchased.However,anyservicecrediteligibleforpurchasethatisnotexplicitlyawardedtothenonmemberbythejudgmentorcourtordershallbedeemedtheexclusivepropertyofthemember.


§31685.5. Nonmember’s retirement; conditionsAnonmembershallberetireduponhisorherwrittenapplicationtotheboardifallof

the following conditions are met:(a)Thememberornonmemberhasattainedtheminimumageprescribedbythe

applicableserviceretirementformulaofthemember.(b)Onthedateofretirement,thememberhadsufficientcreditedservicetoretirefor

service,notwithstandinganyservicecreditawardedtothenonmember.(AddedbyStats.1994,Ch.670,Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.1997,Ch.223(AB1598),Sec.4)

§31685.6. Effective date of retirement; accrual of retirement allowanceRetirementshallbeeffectiveandtheretirementallowanceshallbegintoaccrueasof

thedatedesignatedinthenonmember’sapplicationastheeffectivedateofretirement,orthedayfollowingthedateofcourtorderdividingthecommunitypropertyofthememberandnonmember,iflater.Innoeventshalltheretirementbecomeeffectiveortheretirementallowancebegintoaccrueearlierthanthefirstdayofthemonthinwhichthenonmember’sapplicationisreceivedatanofficeoftheboardorbyanemployeeofthesystemdesignatedbytheboard.


§31685.7. Final compensation; retirement dates of nonmember and member(a)Ifthenonmemberretiresbeforethememberretires,“finalcompensation”meansthe

highestaverageannualcompensationearnablebythememberduringthethreeconsecutiveyears,oroneyearwhereapplicable,priortothedatethenonmemberretires.Thenonmembermaydesignateanearlierperiodtobeusedwherethetimeperiodofthenonmember’smarriagetothememberandmembershipcorrespond.

Article8.4,§31685.3.-§31685.7. 234

(b)Ifthememberhasretiredbeforethenonmember,the“finalcompensation”forthenonmembershallbethefinalcompensationusedincalculatingthemember’sretirement.

(c)Uponreceiptofanapplicationforretirementbythemember,theboardshallnotifythenonmemberthathisorherfinalcompensationwillnotincreaseanyfurtherandshallidentifywhichoptionsareavailabletothenonmemberandtheimpactthereof.


§31685.8. Service retirement formula; service credited to nonmemberAnonmemberentitledtoreceivearetirementallowanceshallreceivearetirement

allowancebasedontheserviceretirementformulaapplicabletotheservicecreditedtothenonmember.


§31685.9. Disability of memberIfamemberbecomesdisabled,thecombinedbenefitpaymentstoboththememberand

nonmembershallnotexceedtheamountthatwouldotherwisebepaidtothememberalone.(AddedbyStats.1994,Ch.670,Sec.2)

§31685.95. Retirement plan payments resulting in increased benefits; actuarial economic and demographic assumptions and valuations(a)Undernocircumstancesshallaretirementplanberequiredtomakepaymentsinany

mannerthatwillresultinanincreaseintheamountofbenefitsprovidedundertheplan.(b)AllbenefitsdeterminedpursuanttoPart5(commencingwithSection2610)of

Division7oftheFamilyCodeandthisarticleshallbedeterminedonthebasisoftheactuarialeconomicanddemographicassumptionsandvaluesprescribedbytheboardoftheaffectedretirementplan.


§31685.96. Age factors(a)Theagefactorapplicabletothenonmembershallbebasedontheageofthe

nonmemberatthetimeofhisorherretirement.(b)Theboardshalladoptagefactorsasrecommendedbytheactuary.(AddedbyStats.1994,Ch.670,Sec.2)(Thefollowingsectionhasthesamenumberasthesectionimmediatelyprecedingit)

§31685.96. Operation of article; resolution by countyThisarticleshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisorsshall,by

resolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makethisarticleapplicableinthecounty.(AddedbyStats.1994,Ch.670,Sec.2)

Article 8.5Group Insurance


§31691. Ordinance or resolution for contribution toward premiums(a)Theboardofsupervisorsofanycountybyordinance,orthegoverningbodyof

anydistrictundertheCountyEmployeesRetirementLaw,byordinanceorresolution,mayprovideforthecontributionbythecountyordistrictfromitsfundsandnotfromtheretirement

Article8.4,§31685.7.-Article8.5,§31691.235

fund,towardthepaymentofalloraportionofthepremiumsonapolicyorcertificateoflifeinsuranceordisabilityinsuranceissuedbyanadmittedinsurer,ortowardthepaymentofallorpart of the consideration for any hospital service or medical service corporation, including any corporationlawfullyoperatingunderSection9201oftheCorporationsCode,contract,orforanycombinationthereof,forthebenefitofanymemberheretoforeorhereafterretiredorhisorherdependents.

Atleastoneoftheseplansshallincludefreechoiceofphysicianandsurgeon.(b)Thebenefitsprovidedbythissectionareinadditiontoanyotherbenefitsprovided

bythischapter.(c)Theboardofretirementmayprovideonbehalfofamemberwhohasretired,oran

eligiblesurvivingspousewhowasmarriedtothememberforoneyearpriortothedateofretirementofthemember,or,ifthereisnosuchspouse,thesurvivingunmarriedchildrenofthememberwhoareunder18yearsofage,orunder22yearsofageandfull-timestudents,forthebenefitsenumeratedhereinfromtheearningsoftheretirementfundthatareinexcessofthetotalinterestcreditedtocontributionsandreservesplus1percentofthetotalassetsoftheretirementfund.Theboardmayprovideforthebenefitsenumeratedfromlikesourceswhentheboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofadistricthaselectedtoprovidethesebenefitstoitsactiveemployees,eventhoughthebenefitsarenotprovidedtothosewhohaveretiredfromtheserviceofthecountyordistrict.

(d)Exceptinacountyofthefirstclass,uponadoptionbyanycountyprovidingbenefitspursuanttothissection,theboardofretirementshall,instead,paythosebenefitsfromtheSupplementalRetireeBenefitsReserveestablishedpursuanttoSection31618.


§31691.1. Increase in allowance from excess earnings in lieu of contributions for premiums(a)Inlieuofthebenefitsprescribedbysubdivision(d)ofSection31691,theboardof

retirementmayprovideonbehalfofamemberwhohasretired,oraneligiblesurvivingspousewhowasmarriedtothememberpriortothedateofretirementofthemember,or,ifthereisnosuchspouse,thesurvivingunmarriedchildrenofthememberwhoareunder18yearsofage,orunder22yearsofageandfull-timestudents,foranequivalentincreaseinallowancefrom the earnings of the retirement fund that are in excess of the total interest credited to contributionsandreservesplus1percentofthetotalassetsoftheretirementfund.AnybenefitprovidedbythissectionshallbesubjecttoSection31692.

(b)Exceptinacountyofthefirstclass,uponadoptionbyanycountyprovidingbenefitspursuanttothissection,theboardofretirementshall,instead,paythosebenefitsfromtheSupplementalRetireeBenefitsReserveestablishedpursuanttoSection31618.


§31691.2. Enrollment in authorized plans; board of retirement; control; administrative costs (Los Angeles)Theboardofretirementinacountyofthefirstclassmaypermitactivemembersand

theirdependentstoenrollinanyplanauthorizedinSection31691.Theboardshallhaveexclusivecontrolovertheplanbenefitsandadministrationtothesamedegreeandtothesameextentitotherwisehascontroloverplanbenefitsandadministrationforretiredmembers,andmayrecoverreasonableadministrativecostsfromthecountyorplanparticipants.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.


Article8.5,§31691.-§31691.2. 236

§31692. Amendment or repeal of ordinance or resolutionTheadoptionofanordinanceorresolutionpursuanttoSection31691shallgiveno

vestedrighttoanymemberorretiredmember,andtheboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofthedistrictmayamendorrepealtheordinanceorresolutionatanytimeexceptthatastoanymemberwhoisretiredatthetimeofsuchanamendmentorrepeal,theamendmentorrepealshallnotbeoperativeuntilninety(90)daysaftertheboardorgoverningbodynotifiesthememberinwritingoftheamendmentorrepeal.Incountieswithapopulationof5,000,000ormore,theadoptionofanordinanceorresolutionpursuanttoSection31691shallremainineffectforanymemberheretoforeorhereafterretiredforaslongastheboardofsupervisorsorgoverningbodyprovidessimilartypesofbenefitstoanyactivememberincurrentcountyservice.


§31693. Proposed changes to employee health care benefits affecting retired employees; notice and commentInanycounty,district,orcountyretirementsystemprovidingbenefitsunderthis

article,thecounty,district,orcountyretirementsystemshallprovideanyrecognizedretireeorganization,asdefinedinSection31471.5,thatisrecognizedbytheretirementsystemofthecountyordistrictasrepresentingtheretiredemployeesofthatcountyordistrictreasonableadvancenoticeofanyproposedchangesinemployeehealthcarebenefitsaffectingthoseretiredemployeesandtheorganizationshallhaveareasonableopportunitytocommentpriortoanyformalactionbythecounty,district,orcountyretirementsystemontheproposedchanges.Asusedinthissection,“proposedchanges”meanssignificantchangesaffectinghealthcarebenefits,including,butnotlimitedto,changesinhealthcarecarriers,plandesign,andpremiums.


Article 8.6Post-Employment Benefits

(AddedbyStats.2006,Ch.846(AB2863),Sec.6,EffectiveSeptember30,2006)(FormerArticle8.6entitled“AlternativeGroupInsurance”wasaddedbyStats.1991,Ch.1149,Sec.3;ArticleapplicableincountiesadoptingitasprescribedbySection31694.Repealedby

Stats.2006,Ch.846(AB2863),Sec.5,EffectiveSeptember30,2006)

§31694. Post-Employment Benefits Trust Account; establishment; purpose; contributions; use of funds(a)Theboardofsupervisorsofacountyorthegoverningbodyofadistrictorother

publicentitymay,byordinanceorresolutionandwiththeagreementoftheboardofretirement,provideforthecontributionoffundsbythecounty,adistrict,orotherpublicentityintoaPost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount.TheretirementsystemmayestablishthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountasapartoftheretirementfund.ThePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountshallbeestablishedforthesolepurposeoffundingthebenefitsprovidedunderapost-employmentgrouphealth,life,welfare,orothersupplementalbenefitsplanorplansestablishedandmaintainedbythecountyordistrict,whichplanorplansmayprovideforself-insuredcoverageorthepaymentofalloraportionofthepremiumsononeor more insurance contracts or health care service plan contracts for retired employees of the

Article8.5,§31692.-Article8.6,§31694.237

participatingcounty,district,orotherpublicentity,andtheirqualifiedspouses,dependentsandbeneficiaries.

(b)ContributionstothePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountmayincludetheproceedsofdebtissuedbythecounty,adistrict,orotherpublicentitysolelyforthepurposeoffundingpost-employmenthealth,life,welfare,orothersupplementalbenefits.

(c)Thepost-employmentbenefitsprovidedwiththefundscontributedtothePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountareinadditiontoanyotherbenefitsprovidedunderthischapter.

(d)(1)Exceptasdescribedinsubdivision(b)ofSection31694.1,theassetsoftheretirementfundmaynotbeused,directlyorindirectly,topaythecostofanybenefitsprovidedthroughthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountor,excepttotheextentallowedbyfederaltaxlaw,topayanydirectorindirectcostofadministeringthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustFund.

(2)Exceptasdescribedinsubdivision(c)ofSection31694.1,fundsinthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountmaynotbeused,directlyorindirectly,topaythecostofanyotherbenefitsprovidedunderthischapter.


§31694.1. Funds accounted for separately in Post-employment Benefits Trust Account; Investment and administration of funds(a)Theretirementsystemshallseparatelyaccountforthefundscontributedtothe

Post-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountbyeachparticipatingemployerandtheearningsandexpensesrelatedtotheinvestmentandadministrationofthosefunds.

(b)Theboardofretirement,oraboardofinvestmentsinacountyinwhichaboardofinvestmentshasbeenestablishedpursuanttoSection31520.2,shallhavesole,exclusive,andplenaryauthorityandfiduciaryresponsibilityovertheinvestmentofthefundsinthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount,consistentwithSections31594and31595,andasprovidedforinSection17ofArticleXVIoftheCaliforniaConstitution.TheboardofretirementorboardofinvestmentsmayinvestfundsinthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountwiththoseoftheretirementsystem,totheextentallowedbyfederaltaxlaws.TheinvestmentearningsandinvestmentexpensesattributabletotheinvestmentactivityofthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountshallbeaccountedforseparatelyfromtheinvestmentearningsandexpensesoftheretirementfund.

(c)ThefundsinandinvestmentearningsofthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountshallbeusedtopaythereasonablecostsrelatedtoinvestmentexpensesandadministrationofthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccounttotheextentallowedbyfederaltaxlaw.Thoseexpensesshallnotbedeemedtobeaninvestmentoradministrativeexpenseofaretirementsystemunderthischapter.

(d)Theboardofretirement,oraboardofinvestmentsinacountyinwhichaboardofinvestmentshasbeenestablishedpursuanttoSection31520.2,mayestablishrulesandproceduresgoverningtheinvestmentsandadministrationofthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount.TheboardofretirementortheboardofinvestmentsshalldeterminetherateofinteresttocreditthefundsinthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount.

(e)Theboardofretirement,oraboardofinvestmentsinacountyinwhichaboardofinvestmentshasbeenestablishedpursuanttoSection31520.2,isauthorizedtotakeanyandallactionsnecessarytoestablishandadministerthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountin

Article8.6,§31694.-§31694.1. 238

compliancewithapplicablefederaltaxlawsorotherlegalrequirements.(f)Theboardofretirement,ortheboardofretirementactingjointlywithaboardof

investmentsinacountyinwhichaboardofinvestmentshasbeenestablishedpursuanttoSection31520.2,andaparticipatingemployerinthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountshallestablish,bywrittenagreement,therespectiverolesandresponsibilitiesoftheretirementsystem and the participating employer with respect to the administration and investment ofthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount,consistentwithSection17ofArticleXVIoftheCaliforniaConstitution.Thatagreementshallinclude,butisnotlimitedto,funding,distribution,expenditure,actuarial,accounting,andreportingconsiderations,andanyapplicableinvestmentparameters.Theboardmay,initsdiscretion,authorizeanemployertotransferassetsintooroutofthePost-EmploymentRetirementAccount,however,anytransferofassetsshallcomplywiththetermsofthecontractbetweentheemployerandtheboard,satisfyrequirementsunderapplicablerulesoftheGovernmentalAccountingStandardsBoard,andsatisfytherequirementsoffederaltaxlaw.Oncetheinvestmentparametersareestablished,theboardofretirement,oraboardofinvestmentsinacountyinwhichaboardofinvestmentshasbeenestablishedpursuanttoSection31520.2,shallhavesolecontrolovertheinvestmentactivityofthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountasdescribedinsubdivision(b).Uponagreementandauthorizationoftheboardofretirementandthegoverningbodyofaparticipatingemployer,theretirementsystemmayadministerapost-employmenthealth,life,welfare,orothersupplementalbenefitplansponsoredbytheparticipatingemployerandfundedthroughthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount.

(g)Inaccordancewithproceduresestablishedinthewrittenagreementdescribedinsubdivision(f),theparticipatingemployermayelecttoterminateparticipationinthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustandinstructtheretirementsystemtoeither(1)transferthefundsheldinthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccounttoasuccessortrusteenamedbytheemployer,or(2)disbursethetrustassetsinaccordancewithsubdivision(i).Inaddition,theboardofretirementmayterminatetheparticipationofaparticipatingemployerinthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountifeither:

(1)Theboardofretirementfindsthattheparticipatingemployerisunabletosatisfythetermsandconditionsrequiredbythisarticle,therulesandproceduresestablishedbytheboard,ortheparticipationagreementbetweentheparticipatingemployerandtheboardofretirement.

(2)TheboardofretirementelectstoterminatethePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount.

(h)IftheboardofretirementterminatestheparticipationofanemployerinthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount,asdescribedinparagraph(1)or(2)ofsubdivision(g),thefundsattributabletothatemployershallremaininthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount,forthecontinuedpaymentofpost-employmentbenefitsforcurrentandfutureparticipantsandthecostsofadministrationandinvestment.

(i)IftheboardofretirementelectstoterminatethePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount,theretirementsystemshalldisbursethefundsinPost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccountinthefollowingorderandmanner:

(1)Theretirementsystemshallretainanamountsufficienttopayforthepost-employmentbenefitsforparticipantsinthepost-employmentbenefitsplanorplansprovidedbytheformerparticipatingemployer.

(2)Theretirementsystemshallretainanamountsufficienttopayreasonableadministrativeandinvestmentcostsdescribedinthissection.

Article8.6,§31694.1.239

(3)Aftertheamountsinparagraphs(1)and(2)havebeenretainedordisbursed,the retirement system shall pay any remaining funds to the former participating employer or employers.


§31694.2. Responsibilities of employer participating in accountAnemployerwhoelectstoparticipateinthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount

shallberequiredtoestablish,fund,andapplydistributionsfromthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount,andadministerapost-employmenthealth,life,welfare,orothersupplementalbenefitplanorplansfundedthroughthePost-EmploymentBenefitsTrustAccount,pursuanttoapplicablefederaltaxrequirementsorotherlegalprovisions.Anemployermayexpresslydelegateitsresponsibilitiesunderthissectiontotheretirementsystemasdescribedinsubdivision(f)ofSection31694.1,totheextentallowedbyfederaltaxlaws.


§31694.3. County or district may establish its own trust for funding post-employment benefits(a)Theboardofsupervisorsofacounty,orthegoverningbodyofadistrict,may

establish,byresolutionorordinance,itsowntrustforthesolepurposeoffundinganypost-employmentbenefitsprovidedunderagrouphealth,life,orotherwelfarebenefitsplanorplansestablishedandmaintainedbythatcountyordistrict.

(b)Theboardofretirementand,ifapplicable,theboardofinvestments,may,withtheagreementofthecountyordistrict,actasoneormoreofthefollowingforthatemployer-establishedtrust:trustee,third-partyadministrator,orinvestmentmanager.Theboardofretirementand,ifapplicable,theboardofinvestments,mayenteratrustagreement,third-partyadministrativeservicesagreement,investmentmanageragreement,orotherappropriateagreementwiththecountyordistrict,whichshallestablishtherespectiverolesandresponsibilitiesofthepartieswithrespecttotheadministrationandinvestmentoftheemployer-establishedtrust.Thatagreementshallprovideforthemannerandmethodofpaymentforthereasonablecostsrelatedtoinvestmentexpensesfor,andadministrationof,theemployer-establishedtrust.Thoseexpensesshallnotbedeemedtobeaninvestmentoradministrativeexpenseofaretirementsystemunderthischapter.

(c)Thecountyordistrictmaycontractwithanentityotherthantheboardofretirementorboardofinvestmentstoactastrustee,third-partyadministrator,orinvestmentmanagerforthetrust.

(d)Contributionstotheemployer-establishedtrustmayincludetheproceedsofdebtissuedbythecountyordistrictsolelyforthepurposeoffundingpost-employmenthealth,life,orotherwelfarebenefits.

(AddedbyStats.2006,Ch.846(AB2863),Sec.6,EffectiveSeptember30,2006)

§31694.4. Application of articleThisarticleshallnotapplytoacounty,district,orotherpublicentityinacountyofthe

firstclassasdefinedbySection28020untiltheprovisionsofthisarticlearefundedpursuanttotheprovisionsofaratifiedcollectivebargainingagreementbythatcounty,district,orotherpublicentity.

(AddedbyStats.2006,Ch.846(AB2863),Sec.6,EffectiveSeptember30,2006)

Article8.6,§31694.1.-§31694.4. 240

§31694.5. Effect of contract between public employer and board upon obligations of parties to provide benefitsAcontractenteredintobetweenapublicemployerandaboardofretirementorboard

ofinvestmentsasdescribedinSection31694.1shallnotchangetheobligationsofapublicemployer,boardofretirement,orboardofinvestmentsthatarecreatedunderothercontracts,laws,ordinances,regulations,orsimilaractionstoprovidebenefitsforemployeesorretiredemployeesofaparticipatingcounty,district,orotherpublicentity,ortheirqualifiedspouses,dependents,andbeneficiaries.

(AddedbyStats.2006Ch.846(AB2863),Sec.6,EffectiveSeptember30,2006)

Article 8.7Extension of Safety Member Provisions


§31695.1. Applicability of chapter to certain counties; approval by boardAnyprovisionsofthischaptertothecontrarynotwithstanding,theboardofsupervisors

inanycountynotsubjecttotheprovisionsofSection31676.1may,bymajorityvote,providethatalltheprovisionsofthischapterrelatingtosafetymembers,whichapplytocountiescomingundertheprovisionsofSections31676.1priortoJanuary1,1953,shallapplyinsuch county to all employees of such county whose principal duties consist of active law enforcementoractivefiresuppressionasdefinedinSection31470.2or31470.4,andtheboardinsuchcountyshallinitsregulationsprovideforthetimeofelectionandtermsofofficeofadditionalmembersoftheboard.


§31695.2. Election by employees; filing noticeAlleligibleemployeesmayelecttobeincludedwithinthesafetymemberprovisions

ofthischapterbywrittennoticefiledwiththeboardnotlaterthan60daysfromandaftertheeffectivedateoftheapprovaloftheboardofsupervisorsoftheprovisionsofthisarticle,orwithin60daysfromandaftertheeffectivedateofaselectionofbenefitsbytheboardofsupervisorsunderSection31808.6,whicheverislater.


§31695.3. Effect of approval by boardFromandaftertheeffectivedateoftheapprovaloftheboardofsupervisorsunder

Section31695.1,alloftheprovisionsofthischapterrelatingtosafetymemberswhichapplytocountiescomingundertheprovisionsofSection31676.1,priortoJanuary1,1953,exceptasprovidedinSection31695.2,shallapplyinsuchcounty.


Article8.6,§31694.5.-Article8.7,§31695.3.241

Article 8.8Long-Term Care Group Insurance


§31696.1. Program offered by board of retirement; persons who may be covered; enrollment; award of contracts; coverage; eligibility criteria(a)Theboardofretirementmayprovidealong-termcareinsuranceprogramforretired

membersandtheirspouses,theirparents,andtheirspouses’parents.(b)SubjecttoSection31696.5,theboardmaypermitactivemembersandtheirspouses,

theirparents,andtheirspouses’parentstoenrollinthelong-termcareinsuranceprogram.(c)Thelong-termcareinsuranceplanshallbemadeavailableperiodicallyduringopen

enrollmentperiodsdeterminedbytheboard.(d)Theboardshallawardcontractstocarrierswhoarequalifiedtoprovidelong-term

carebenefits.(e)Thelong-termcareinsuranceplanshallincludehome,community,andinstitutional

careandshallprovidesubstantiallyequivalentcoveragetothatrequiredunderChapter2.6(commencingwithSection10230)ofPart2ofDivision2oftheInsuranceCodeandshallmeetthoserequirementssetforthintheKnox-KeeneHealthCareServicePlanActof1975(Chapter2.2[commencingwithSection1340]ofDivision2oftheHealthandSafetyCode).

However,theDepartmentofManagedHealthCareshallhavenojurisdictionovertheinsuranceplanauthorizedbythisarticle.

(f)Notwithstandingsubdivision(a),nopersonshallbeenrolledunlessheorshemeetstheeligibilityandunderwritingcriteriaapprovedbytheboard.

(g)Theboardshallapproveeligibilitycriteriaforenrollment,approveappropriateunderwritingcriteriaforpotentialenrollees,approvethescopeofcoveredbenefits,approvethecriteriatoreceivebenefits,andapproveanyotherstandardsasneeded.

(AddedbyStats.1997,Ch.491(SB1020),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.1999,Ch.525(AB78),Sec.17)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.857(AB2903),Sec.15)

§31696.2. Payment of cost by enrollees; separation from retirement or health benefits programs administered by system(a)Thefullcostofenrollmentinalong-termcareinsuranceplanshallbepaidbythe

enrollees.(b)Thelong-termcareinsuranceplanshallnotbecomepartof,orsubjectto,the

retirementorhealthbenefitsprogramsadministeredbythesystem.(AddedbyStats.1997,Ch.491(SB1020),Sec.2)

§31696.3. Long-Term Care Fund; administration and investment; disposition of income(a)TheboardshallestablishatrustfunddesignatedastheLong-TermCareFundforthe

purposeofpaymentofthecostsandadministrationofthelong-termcareplan.TheLong-TermCareFundshallbeheldfortheexclusivebenefitofenrolleesandthepaymentofthecostsandadministrationoftheprogram.

(b)TheboardshallhaveexclusivecontroloftheadministrationandinvestmentoftheLong-TermCareFund,exceptthatinacountyhavingaboardofinvestments,theboardofinvestmentsshallhaveexclusivecontroloftheinvestmentofthefund.FundsintheLong-TermCareFundshallbeinvestedpursuanttothelawgoverningtheinvestmentoftheretirementfund.

Article8.8,§31696.1.-§31696.3. 242

(c)Income,ofwhatevernature,earnedontheLong-TermCareFundshallbecreditedtothefund.


§31696.4. Recovery of administrative costsTheBoardisauthorizedtorecovertheadministrativecostsofthelong-termcare

insuranceprogramfrominsurancecarriersandpremiumspaidbyenrollees.(AddedbyStats.1997,Ch.491(SB1020),Sec.2)

§31696.5. Application of subdivision (b) of Section 31696.1.Subdivision(b)ofSection31696.1shallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardof

supervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makethatsubdivisionapplicableinthecounty.


Article 8.9Vision Care

(Article8.9addedbyStats.2007,Ch.331(AB1288),Sec.2)

§31698. Citation of article ThisarticleshallbeknownandmaybecitedastheCountyRetirementSystemVision

CareProgram.(AddedbyStats.2007,Ch.331(AB1288),Sec.2)

§31698.1. Retired members; EnrollmentAmemberwhoretiresfromacountyretirementsystemcoveredbythischaptermay

enrollinavisioncareprogramofferedpursuanttothisarticlesubjecttomeetingtheeligibilityrequirementsestablishedfortheprogram.


§31698.2. Payment of premiumsEachretiredmemberthatelectstoparticipateintheprogramshallbesolelyresponsible

forthepaymentofpremiums.(AddedbyStats.2007,Ch.331(AB1288),Sec.2)

§31698.3. Benefits in addition to any other benefits under chapterThebenefitsinthisarticleareinadditiontoanyotherbenefitsprovidedinthischapter.(AddedbyStats.2007,Ch.331(AB1288),Sec.2)

§31698.4. Contract with a third-party administrator regarding vision care to retired member, survivors, and eligible dependentsThesponsorofthevisioncareprogrammaycontractwithathird-partyadministrator

toprovidevisioncaretotheretiredmember,hisorhersurvivors,andhisorhereligibledependents.


Article8.8,§31696.3.-Article8.9,§31698.4.243

Article 8.10Postemployment Health Benefits: San Bernardino County Alternative Fund


§31699.1. Applicability (San Bernardino)Thisarticleshallapplytoaboardofretirementestablishedinacountyoftheseventh

class.(AddedbyStats.2009,Ch.326(SB11),Sec.1)

§31699.2. Definitions (San Bernardino)Unlessthecontextotherwiserequires,thedefinitionscontainedinthissectiongovern

theconstructionofthisarticle.(a)“Boardmembers”meanstheretirementsystemboardandtheindividualmembers

ofthatboardortheindividualmembersofapostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboard,asapplicable.

(b)“Employee,”exceptasusedinsubdivision(g),meansaformerorretiredemployeeofalocalpublicagencyandhisorherspouseanddependentswhoareeligibleforretireehealthbenefitsprovidedbythatpublicagency.

(c)“Postemploymenthealthbenefitsfund”meansthefundestablishedbytheretirementsystemboardasalegalentityseparatefromtheretirementsystemthatisusedforthecollectiveinvestmentofassetsheldsolelyforprovidinghealthbenefitstoemployeesofalocalpublicagency.

(d)“Postemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboard”meansthegoverningboardofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund.

(e)“Publicagency”meansanylocalpublicagency,asdefinedinSection53630.(f)“Retirementsystemboard”meansthegoverningboardoftheretirementsystem.(g)“Staff”meanstheofficersandemployeesoftheretirementsystemorofthe

postemploymenthealthbenefitsfund,asapplicable.(AddedbyStats.2009,Ch.326(SB11),Sec.1)

§31699.3. Purpose (San Bernardino)Thepurposeofthisarticleistoallowtheretirementsystemboardtoestablisha

postemploymenthealthbenefitsfundforpublicagenciesthatwouldenabletheagenciestodoall of the following:

(a)Combineforinvestmenttheassetsthattheagenciessetasidetoprovideforretireehealthbenefits.

(b)Takeadvantageofeconomiesofscale.(c)Useexistinginvestmentexpertisetoreducethecostoffundingforretireehealth

benefitsandincreasethesecurityofpublicretireesandtheirdependentsinthosebenefits.(AddedbyStats.2009,Ch.326(SB11),Sec.1)

§31699.4. Authority to establish postemployment health benefits fund for collective investment of assets (San Bernardino)(a)(1)Theretirementsystemboardmayestablish,byresolution,apostemployment

healthbenefitsfundforthecollectiveinvestmentofassetsheldintrustsolelyfortheexclusivebenefitofprovidinghealthbenefitstoemployeesofanylocalpublicagency.

(2)Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshallbecomposedofthesamemembersthatcomposetheretirementsystemboard.Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshallhavethesoleandexclusiveresponsibilityanddiscretionforadministrationofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund.However,theretirementsystemboardmayterminatethefundinitsdiscretionatanytime.

Article8.10,§31699.1.-§31699.4. 244

(b)ThepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundshallbeestablishedandadministeredtocomplywiththerequirementsofGovernmentalAccountingStandardsBoardStatementsNo.43andNo.45(GASB43and45)forassetsheldbythepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundtobetreatedasplanassets,totheextentreasonablypracticable.

(c)Theassetsinthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundshallbeirrevocablyheldfortheexclusivepurposesofprovidinghealthbenefitstoemployeesoftheparticipatingpublicagencies,andtodefraythereasonableexpensesofadministeringthefund.ThepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardmayrequirethatallassetstransferredtoitonbehalfofaparticipatingpublicagencybetransferredfromatrustfundthatmeetstherequirementsofGASB43and45forassetstobetreatedasplanassets,includingthattheassetsofthetrustfundbeheldfortheexclusivepurposeofprovidinghealthbenefitstoemployeesofalocalpublicagency.

(d)Theretirementsystemboardshalldetermine,atitssolediscretion,theformofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund,whichmaybeoneormoretruststhatareestablishedunderSection115oftheInternalRevenueCodeoranyotherformorformschosen.Theretirementsystemboardmaytakeanyandallactionsnecessaryorappropriatetoimplementthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund,including,butnotlimitedto,establishingoneormorejointpowersauthorities,partnerships,commontrustfunds,orothermechanismsinordertocombineorcommingletheassetsheldbythefundforinvestmentpurposes.

(e)Apublicagency,orthetrusteesofatrustfundthathastransferredassetstothepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund,may,inaccordancewithrulesestablishedbythepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboard,directthatallorpartoftheassetsallocatedtotheaccountofthatagencyortrustbetransferredtoanotherfundthatismaintainedbytheagencythatholdsthoseassetssolelyfortheexclusivepurposeofprovidinghealthbenefitstoemployeesoftheagency.Uponterminationofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundbytheretirementsystemboard,thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshallretainanamountsufficienttopayreasonablecostsandexpensesofoperatingandterminatingthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund,andthereaftershalltransferanyremainingassetsallocatedtotheaccountofeachparticipatingpublicagencyonlytoanotherfundmaintainedbytheagencythatholdsthoseassetssolelyfortheexclusivepurposeofprovidinghealthbenefitstoemployeesoftheagency.Ifaparticipatingagencydoesnotmaintainafundforthatexclusivepurpose,thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshalltransfertheassetsallocatedtothepublicagency’saccounttoatrustaccountmaintainedbyabankfortheexclusivepurposeofprovidinghealthbenefitstoemployeesoftheagency.Thebankshallhavenetassetsofatleastfivehundredmilliondollars($500,000,000).Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshallbereimbursedfromtheassetsofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundallocatedtothepublicagencyforalldirectandindirectcostsofestablishingandtransferringfundassetstoabanktrustaccount.


§31699.5. Fiduciary standards (San Bernardino)Theinvestmentoftheassetsinthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundshallbe

subjecttothefiduciarystandardsgoverninginvestmentsunderSection17ofArticleXVIofthe California Constitution, as those standards apply to the management of investments of the retirementsystemgovernedbytheboard,notwithstandingthatassetsinthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundwillbeusedtoprovideretireehealthbenefitsandnotretirementallowances.Eachpublicagencyandtrustfund,andeachgoverningbodyandmemberthereof,thatparticipatesinthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundshallbeconclusivelydeterminedtohaveacceptedandapprovedtheapplicabilityoftheinvestmentstandardssetforthinthisarticle.


Article8.10,§31699.4.-§31699.5.245

§31699.6. Investment authority; delegation of authority; investment pools (San Bernardino)(a)Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshalldeterminetheinvestments

ofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundandmaydelegatethisfunctiontotheextentconsistentwithitsfiduciaryresponsibilities,includingdelegatingthisfunctiontotheretirementsystemboard.

(b)Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardmayofferdifferentinvestmentpoolstobechosenbythepublicagenciesandtheirtrustfundsthatparticipateinthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund.

(c)TotheextentallowedbyCalifornialawandfederallaw,including,butnotlimitedto,federaltaxandsecuritieslaw,thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardmayinvesttheassetsthatitholds,andtheretirementsystemboardmayinvesttheassetsthatitholds,ininvestmentpoolsestablishedunderthisarticle,andeachofthoseboardsmaycombineorcommingle,forinvestmentpurposesonly,theassetsthatitholdswiththeassetsheldbytheotherboard.Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardandtheretirementsystemboardmaytakeanyandallactionsnecessaryorappropriatetoimplementthatcombinationorcommingling,including,butnotlimitedto,unitizingtheinvestmentsheldforretirementpurposes.

(d)Theretirementsystemboardmayinvesttheassetsthatitholdsforretirementpurposes,andthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardmayinvesttheassetsheldinthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundinthesameorsimilarinvestmentsbyparallelinvestingratherthancomminglingtheassetsforinvestment.


§31699.7. Terms and conditions for participating public agencies; separate accounting; authority over governance of fund (San Bernardino)(a)Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshallestablishthetermsand

conditionsforapublicagencyanditstrustfundtoparticipateinthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund,including,butnotlimitedto,eligibilitytoparticipate,amountofassetstransferred to the fund, investments, withdrawal, transfer of assets to or from the fund, terminationofparticipation,andreportingtothepublicagency.

(b)Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshallaccountseparatelyforeachpublicagencyanditstrustfundwithrespecttocontributions,withdrawals,earnings,losses,feespaidtothird-partyvendors,expenses,andallotherrelevantitems.Anyexpenseschargedtothepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundbytheretirementsystemshallbereportedatleastmonthlybythepostemploymenthealthbenefitsboardinitspublicrecordsandshallbereportedatleastannuallytoeachagencyortrustthatparticipatesinthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund.Theportionofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundthatisattributabletoeachpublicagencyanditstrustfundaftertheaccounting,includingeachagency’sandtrustfund’sallocatedshareofexpensesasprovidedinthissection,shallbeusedonlyfortheexclusivebenefitoftheemployeesofthatagency.

(c)Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshall,byresolution,establishallrules,regulations,orbylawsfortheadministrationofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund, including any revision that it deems appropriate, and shall have sole discretion to interpretthoserules,regulations,orbylaws.


§31699.8. Limitation of liability; obligations not changed or created; status as separate legal entity (San Bernardino)(a)Thesolefunctionofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundshallbetoinvestassets

ofparticipatingpublicagenciesandtheirtrustfundsthatareheldfortheexclusivebenefitofagencyemployees.Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundshallnothaveanyliabilityfor

Article8.10,§31699.6.-§31699.8. 246

benefitsthatareprovidedbyanyagencyortrustthattransfersassetstothepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundforinvestment.Additionally,theretirementsystemshallnothaveanyliabilityforthosebenefits.

(b)Thetransferofassetstoorfromthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund,andtheinvestmentofassetsbythatfund,shallnotchangetheobligationofanyagencyforretireehealthbenefits,shallnotcreateanyobligationsonthepartoftheretirementsystemsforretireehealthbenefits,andshallnotcreateanyobligationonthepartofapostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundforanypensionorannuitybenefits.

(c)Theretirementsystemandthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundareseparatelegalentities,andtheyandtheirboards,boardmembers,andstaffs,areliableonlyfortheirownactionsorfailurestoact.AnyliabilityshallbedeterminedinaccordancewithChapter1(commencingwithSection900)andChapter2(commencingwithSection910)ofPart3ofDivision3.6ofTitle1.AnyofthoseclaimsorcausesofactionshallaccrueinaccordancewithDivision3.6(commencingwithSection810)ofTitle1.


§31699.9. Expenses of administration (San Bernardino)(a)Expensesofadministrationofthisarticleshallbeallocatedbytheretirementsystem

board,initsdiscretionandonareasonablebasis,amongthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund,theretirementsystem,andtheaccountsofthepublicagenciesandtrustfundsthatparticipateinthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund.

(b)Theestablishmentofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundwillenablethesharingofexpensesofadministrationandinvestment,bringingeconomiesofscaleandbetteruseofinvestmentexpertisetotheretirementsystem.Consequently,theretirementsystemboardmaypaythestartupandinitialadministrativeexpensesforthefundiftheretirementsystemboarddeterminesthatthisexpenditureisinthelong-termbestinterestsofthemembersandbeneficiariesoftheretirementsystem,andtheemployersthatparticipateinthatsystem.Theboardmayalsoassessparticipatingagenciesandtrustsforalloraportionofthoseexpenses.


§31699.10. Separate governance from retirement system; power and authority, fiduciary insurance (San Bernardino)Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshallactasaseparategoverningboard

ofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfund,withseparaterules,regulations,andbylaws,andshallmeetseparatelyfromthemeetingsoftheretirementsystem.Thepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundboardshallhaveallofthepower,authority,andabilitytoactonbehalfofthepostemploymenthealthbenefitsfundthattheretirementsystemboardhaswithrespecttotheretirementsystem,including,butnotlimitedto,thepowertoobtainfiduciaryinsurance.


Article 8.11 Dental Care

(Article8.11addedbyStats.2012,Ch.59(AB2664),Sec.4)

§31699.20. Short titleThisarticleshallbeknownandmaybecitedastheCountyRetirementSystemDental

CareProgram.(AddedbyStats.2012,Ch.59(AB2664),Sec.4)

Article8.10,§31699.8.-Article8.11,§31699.20.247

§31699.21. Enrollment in dental care programAretiredmemberofacountyretirementsystemcoveredbythischaptermayenroll

inadentalcareprogramofferedpursuanttothisarticle,subjecttomeetingtheeligibilityrequirementsestablishedfortheprogram.


§31699.22. Payment of premiumsAretiredmemberwhoelectstoparticipateintheprogramshallbesolelyresponsiblefor

thepaymentofpremiums.(AddedbyStats.2012,Ch.59(AB2664),Sec.4)

§31699.23. Dental benefitsThebenefitsinthisarticleareinadditiontoanyotherbenefitsprovidedinthischapter.(AddedbyStats.2012,Ch.59(AB2664),Sec.4)

§31699.24. Contracts to provideTheboardofretirementmaycontractwithathird-partyadministratortoprovidedental

caretotheretiredmember,hisorhersurvivors,andhisorhereligibledependents.(AddedbyStats.2012,Ch.59(AB2664),Sec.4)

§31699.25. Revision or discontinuation of dental benefitsTheprovisionofdentalbenefitsinaccordancewiththisarticlemayberevisedor

discontinuedatanytime.(AddedbyStats.2012,Ch.59(AB2664),Sec.4)

Article 9Deferred Retirement


§31700. Election of member leaving service to leave contributions in fund; deferred retirement; allowances; date when payable; interest(a)Anymember,whetheroverorundertheminimumageofvoluntaryservice

retirement,wholeavescountyserviceaftercompletingfiveyearsofserviceorwholeavescountyserviceandwithin90days,orsixmonthsifSection31840.4applies,becomesamemberofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,aretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,theStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oraretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,mayelectinwriting,within90daysafterestablishingeligibilityforreciprocity,toleavehisorheraccumulatedcontributionsintheretirementfundandbegrantedadeferredretirementallowancetobecomeeffectiveeither:

(1)Upontheoptionofthemember,atanytimeatwhichheorshecouldhaveretiredhadheorsheremainedincountyserviceinafull-timeposition.

(2)Notlaterthanthefirstdayofthemonthfollowingthatinwhichheorsheattainstheapplicablecompulsoryretirementage,ifany.

(b)Anymemberwhoiseligibletobegrantedadeferredretirementallowanceundersubdivision(a)becauseheorshehascompletedfiveyearsofservicebutwhofailstosoelect,shallbedeemedtohaveelectedadeferredretirement.

Article8.11,§31699.21.-Article9,§31700. 248

(c)Anymember,regardlessofservice,whoseretirementsystemcoverageceasesbutwhodoesnotterminateemploymentshallleavehisorheraccumulatedcontributionsintheretirementfund,andinterestshallcontinuetobecreditedpursuanttoSection31591,untilthememberretiresorterminatesemployment.


§31700.5. Deferred retirement to accept appointment by court of record or judge in reciprocal countyNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthischapter,anymemberwithmorethan10

years service who resigns his position and is granted a deferred retirement under this chapter, toacceptanappointmentbyanycourtofrecordorjudgethereofinareciprocalcounty,shallnotbeconsideredasbreakinghiscontinuityofserviceandsuchmembershallbeeligibleforreinstatementwithinfiveyearstothepositionfromwhichheresignedoroneinalowerclassinthesameorrelatedseriesrequiringsimilarqualifications,knowledgesandabilities.TheintentprovisionofArticle15ofthischaptershallapplytothissection.


§31701. Withdrawal of accumulated contributionsAnymembermayelecttorescindinwritinghiselectionandwithdrawhisaccumulated

contributionspursuanttoSection31628atanytimebeforetheeffectivedateofhisretirementexceptthatifwithin90daysafterdiscontinuingserviceunderthissystem,hebecameamemberoftheStateEmployees’RetirementSystemorasystemestablishedinanothercountyunderthischapter,hemaynotrescindorwithdrawanyofhisaccumulatedcontributionswhileinserviceassuchamember.


§31702. Disposal of contributions on death of memberUponthedeathofanymemberbeforetheeffectivedateofhisdeferredretirement

allowance,hisaccumulatedcontributionsshallbepaidtohisestateortosuchpersonashenominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard.


§31703. Deferred retirement allowanceAnymemberupontheeffectivedateofthemember’sdeferredretirementallowance

shallbeentitledtoreceivearetirementallowanceasprovidedinSections31662to31664.65,inclusive,Section31673to31677,inclusive,orSection31751,orSection31808.5,orSection31808.6,whicheverisapplicable.

AnymemberwhohaselecteddeferredretirementwhilesubjecttoSection31751shallhavearetirementallowancecomputedinaccordancewithSections31676.11and31808forservicewhichoccurredpriortothedateSection31751wasapplicabletothemember.

(AmendedbyStats.1980,Ch.58,Sec.5,EffectiveApril4,1980)

§31704. Election for deferred retirement allowance; time for presentationIfanymemberelectstohavehisorherdeferredretirementallowancecalculatedin

accordancewithSection31762,31763,31764,or31764.5,heorsheshallpresenthisorherelectioninwritingtotheboardatleastsixmonthspriortotheeffectivedateofhisorherdeferredretirementallowance.


Article9,§31700.-§31704.249

§31705. Calculation of benefitTheretirementallowanceshallbecalculatedaccordingtotheprovisionsofthischapter,

ortheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013,whicheverisapplicable,astheyexistatthetimeofthecommencementoftheretirementallowance.


§31706. Failure to apply for deferred retirement; member who has left county service, has elected to leave contributions in fund and who has attained age 70; deposit of contributions and interest into reserve fundAnymemberwhohasleftcountyserviceandhaselectedtoleaveaccumulated

contributionsintheretirementfundorwhoisdeemedtohaveelectedadeferredretirementpursuanttosubdivision(b)ofSection31700andhasattainedage70buthasnotyetappliedforadeferredretirementallowanceandwhoisnotareciprocalmemberofaretirementsystemestablishedpursuanttothischapterorthePublicEmployees’RetirementLawshallbenotifiedinwritingbythetreasurer,orotherentityauthorizedbytheboard,thatthememberiseligibletoapplyforandshallbeginreceivingadeferredretirementallowancebyApril1oftheyearfollowingtheyearinwhichthememberattainsage70½.Thenotificationshallbemadeatthetimethedeferredmemberattainsage70andshallbesentbycertifiedmailtothemember’slastknownaddress,ortothemember’slastknownemployer,asshownbytherecordsoftheretirementsystem.IfthemembercanbelocatedbutdoesnotmakeproperapplicationforadeferredretirementallowancewithretirementtobeeffectivebyApril1oftheyearinwhichthememberattainsage70½,theretirementsystemshallcommencepayinganunmodifiedallowancetothemember.IfthemembercannotbelocatedbyApril1oftheyearfollowingtheyearinwhichthememberattainsage70½,allofthemember’saccumulatedcontributionsandinterestthereonshallbedepositedin,andbecomeapartof,thecurrentpensionreservefundoftheretirementsystem.Theboardmayatanytimeaftertransferofproceedstothereservefundupon receipt of proper information satisfactory to it, redeposit the proceeds to the credit of theclaimant,tobeadministeredinthemannerprovidedunderthislaw.ThissectionshallnotapplytoamemberwhilethememberisactivelyemployedpastmandatoryretirementageinaretirementsystemestablishedundertheprovisionsofthischapterorthePublicEmployees’RetirementLaw.

(AddedbyStats.1979,Ch.265,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1995,Ch.457(AB847),Sec.5)(AmendedbyStats.1997,Ch.4(SB419),Sec.2)

Article 10Disability Retirement


§31720. Permanent incapacityAnymemberpermanentlyincapacitatedfortheperformanceofdutyshallberetiredfor

disabilityregardlessofageif,andonlyif:(a)Themember’sincapacityisaresultofinjuryordiseasearisingoutofandinthe

courseofthemember’semployment,andsuchemploymentcontributessubstantiallytosuchincapacity, or

(b)Thememberhascompletedfiveyearsofservice,and

Article9,§31705.-Article10,§31720. 250

(c)ThememberhasnotwaivedretirementinrespecttotheparticularincapacityoraggravationthereofasprovidedbySection31009.

Theamendmentstothissectionenactedduringthe1979-80RegularSessionoftheLegislatureshallbeapplicabletoallapplicantsfordisabilityretirementonoraftertheeffectivedateofsuchamendments.


§31720.1. Permanent incapacity; Contra Costa County (Contra Costa)NotwithstandingSection31720,anymembercoveredunderSection31751whois

permanentlyincapacitatedshallberetiredfordisabilityregardlessofageif,andonlyif:(a)Themember’sincapacityissubstantiallycausedbyinjuryordiseasearisingoutof

andinthecourseofthemember’semployment,or(b)Thememberhascompletedatotalof10yearsofservice.“Permanently

incapacitated,”forthepurposeofthissection,meansthatthememberisunablepermanentlytoengageinanysubstantialgainfulemployment.


§31720.3. Request of competent medical opinion; prohibition against use of substitute for disciplinary processIndeterminingwhetheramemberiseligibletoretirefordisability,theboardshallnot

considermedicalopinionunlessitisdeemedcompetentandshallnotusedisabilityretirementasasubstitutefortheemployer’sdisciplinaryprocess.


§31720.4. Los Angeles County; members incapacitated as a result of active military service; retirement for nonservice-connected disability; benefit to spouse of member who dies as a result of active military service (Los Angeles)(a)Notwithstandingsubdivision(b)ofSection31720,amemberwhobecomes

permanently incapacitated for the performance of duty with his or her employing county or districtasadirectconsequenceandresultofinjuryordiseasearisingoutof,andinthecourseof,activemilitaryservicewhileonmiliaryleavefromthecountyordistrict,shallberetiredfornonservice-connecteddisabilityregardlessofageoryearsofservice.

(b)NotwithstandinganyprovisiontothecontraryinSection31781.3,thesurvivingspouseofamemberwhodiesasadirectconsequenceandresultofinjuryordiseasearisingout of, and in the course of, active military service while on military leave from his or her employingcountyordistrict,shallbeentitledtothecombinedbenefitunderSection31781.3regardlessofthemember’syearsofserviceatthetimeofdeath.

(c) For the purposes of this section:(1)“Activemilitaryservice”meansfull-timedutywithinabranchoftheArmed

ForcesoftheUnitedStates.(2)“Militaryleave”meansanauthorizedleaveofabsencetakenfromamember’s

employingcountyordistrictasaresultofamemberbeingcalledtoactivemilitaryservicebecauseofhisorherpositionasareservistormemberoftheNationalGuard.

(d)ThissectionshallapplyonlytotheCountyofLosAngelesandshallnotbeoperativewithregardtothecounty,oradistrictwithinthecounty,untiltheboardofsupervisorsofthecounty,orthegoverningbodyofthedistrict,elects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperative.Theadoptionofaresolutionmakingthissectionoperativeshallnotcreateavestedrightwithrespecttoanymemberpriortothemember’sretirementordeath.Theboardofsupervisorsorthegoverningbodyofthedistrictmayrepealoramendthe

Article10,§31720.-§31720.4.251

resolutionatanytime,excepttotheextentthatitwouldaffectamemberwhoisretiredorisdeceasedatthetimeoftherepealoramendment.


§31720.5. Heart trouble; presumption; conditions(a)Ifasafetymember,afiremanmember,oramemberinactivelawenforcementwho

hascompletedfiveyearsormoreofserviceunderapensionsystemestablishedpursuanttoChapter4(commencingwithSection31900)orunderapensionsystemestablishedpursuanttoChapter5(commencingwithSection32200)orbothorunderthisretirementsystemorundertheStateEmployees’RetirementSystemorunderaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,anddevelopshearttrouble,thathearttroubledevelopingormanifestingitselfinthosecasesshallbepresumedtoariseoutofandinthecourseofemployment.Thathearttroubledevelopingormanifestingitselfinthosecasesshallinnocasebeattributedtoanydiseaseexistingpriortosuchdevelopmentormanifestation.

(b)Thepresumptiondescribedinsubdivision(a)isrebuttablebyotherevidence.Unlesssorebutted,theboardisboundtofindinaccordancewiththepresumption.

(c)Asusedinthissection,“firemanmember”includesamemberengagedinactivefiresuppressionwhoisnotclassifiedasasafetymember.

(d)Asusedinthissection,“memberinactivelawenforcement”includesamemberengagedinactivelawenforcementwhoisnotclassifiedasasafetymember.

(AmendedbyStats.2012,Ch.792(SB996),Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.1974,Ch.9,Sec.1)

§31720.6. Cancer; presumption that disease arose out of and in the course of employment(a)Ifasafetymember,afirefighter,oramemberinactivelawenforcementwhohas

completedfiveyearsormoreofserviceunderapensionsystemestablishedpursuanttoChapter4(commencingwithSection31900)orunderapensionsystemestablishedpursuanttoChapter5(commencingwithSection32200)orbothorunderthisretirementsystemorunderthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemorunderaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapter in another county, and develops cancer, the cancer so developing or manifesting itself inthosecasesshallbepresumedtoariseoutofandinthecourseofemployment.Thecancersodevelopingormanifestingitselfinthosecasesshallinnocasebeattributedtoanydiseaseexistingpriortothatdevelopmentormanifestation.

(b)Notwithstandingtheexistenceofnonindustrialpredisposingorcontributingfactors,anysafetymember,firefightermember,ormemberactiveinlawenforcementdescribedinsubdivision(a)permanentlyincapacitatedfortheperformanceofdutyasaresultofcancershallreceiveaservice-connecteddisabilityretirementifthememberdemonstratesthatheorshewasexposedtoaknowncarcinogenasaresultofperformanceofjobduties.“Knowncarcinogen”forpurposesofthissectionmeansthosecarcinogenicagentsrecognizedbytheInternationalAgencyforResearchonCancer,ortheDirectoroftheDepartmentofIndustrialRelations.

(c)Thepresumptionisdisputableandmaybecontrovertedbyevidence,thatthecarcinogentowhichthememberhasdemonstratedexposureisnotreasonablylinkedtothedisablingcancer,providedthattheprimarysiteofthecancerhasbeenestablished.Unlesssocontroverted,theboardisboundtofindinaccordancewiththepresumption.Thispresumptionshallbeextendedtoamemberfollowingterminationofserviceforaperiodofthreecalendarmonthsforeachfullyearoftherequisiteservice,butnottoexceed60monthsinanycircumstance,commencingwiththelastdateactuallyworkedinthespecifiedcapacity.

(d)“Firefighter,”forpurposesofthissection,includesamemberengagedinactivefire

Article10,§31720.4.-§31720.6. 252

suppressionwhoisnotclassifiedasasafetymember.(e)“Memberinactivelawenforcement,”forpurposesofthissection,includesamember

engagedinactivelawenforcementwhoisnotclassifiedasasafetymember.(AddedbyStats.1999,Ch.160(SB558),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.317(AB2176),Sec.2)

§31720.7. Blood-borne infectious disease; presumption that disease arose out of, and in the course of, employment(a)Ifasafetymember,afirefighter,acountyprobationofficer,oramemberinactivelaw

enforcementdevelopsablood-borneinfectiousdiseaseoramethicillin-resistantStaphylococcusaureusskininfection,thediseaseorskininfectionsodevelopingormanifestingitselfinthosecasesshallbepresumedtoariseoutof,andinthecourseof,employment.Theblood-borneinfectiousdiseaseormethicillin-resistantStaphylococcusaureusskininfectionsodevelopingormanifestingitselfinthosecasesshallinnocasebeattributedtoanydiseaseorskininfectionexistingpriortothatdevelopmentormanifestation.

(b)Anysafetymember,firefighter,countyprobationofficer,ormemberactiveinlawenforcementdescribedinsubdivision(a)permanentlyincapacitatedfortheperformanceofdutyasaresultofablood-borneinfectiousdiseaseormethicillin-resistantStaphylococcusaureusskininfectionshallreceiveaservice-connecteddisabilityretirement.

(c)(1)Thepresumptiondescribedinsubdivision(a)isrebuttablebyotherevidence.Unlesssorebutted,theboardisboundtofindinaccordancewiththepresumption.

(2)Theblood-borneinfectiousdiseasepresumptionshallbeextendedtoamemberfollowing termination of service for a period of three calendar months for each full year of the requisiteservice,butnottoexceed60monthsinanycircumstance,commencingwiththelastdateactuallyworkedinthespecifiedcapacity.

(3)Notwithstandingparagraph(2),themethicillin-resistantStaphylococcusaureusskininfectionpresumptionshallbeextendedtoamemberfollowingterminationofserviceforaperiodof90dayscommencingwiththelastdayactuallyworkedinthespecifiedcapacity.

(d)“Blood-borneinfectiousdisease,”forpurposesofthissection,meansadiseasecausedbyexposuretopathogenicmicroorganismsthatarepresentinhumanbloodthatcancausediseaseinhumans,including,butnotlimitedto,thosepathogenicmicroorganismsdefinedasblood-bornepathogensbytheDepartmentofIndustrialRelations.

(e)“Memberinactivelawenforcement,”forpurposesofthissection,meansmembersemployedbyasheriff’soffice,byapoliceorfiredepartmentofacity,county,cityandcounty,district,orbyanotherpublicormunicipalcorporationorpoliticalsubdivisionorwhoaredescribedinChapter4.5(commencingwithSection830)ofTitle3ofPart2ofthePenalCodeorwhoareemployedbyanycountyforestryorfirefightingdepartmentorunit,exceptanyofthosememberswhoseprincipaldutiesareclericalorotherwisedonotclearlyfallwithinthescopeofactivelawenforcementservicesoractivefirefightingservices,suchasstenographers,telephoneoperators,andotherofficeworkers,andincludesamemberengagedinactivelawenforcementwhoisnotclassifiedasasafetymember.

(AddedbyStats.2000,Ch.138(AB1817),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2001,Ch.833(AB196),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2008,Ch.684(AB2754),Sec.1)

§31720.9. Exposure to biochemical substances; rebuttable presumption that death or illness arose out of, and in course of, employment; definitions(a)Ifapeaceofficermember,asdefinedinSections830.1to830.5,inclusive,ofthePenal

Code,orfirefightermember,withserviceunderapensionsystemestablishedpursuantto

Article10,§31720.6.-§31720.9.253

Chapter4(commencingwithSection31900)orunderapensionsystemestablishedpursuanttoChapter5(commencingwithSection32200),orboth,orunderthisretirementsystem,underthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,orunderaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,becomesillordiesduetoexposuretoabiochemicalsubstance,theillnessthatdevelopsormanifestsitselfinthosecasesshallbepresumedtoariseoutof,andinthecourseof,employment.Theillnessthatdevelopsormanifestsitselfinthosecasesshallinnocasebeattributedtoanyillnessexistingpriortothatdevelopmentormanifestation.

(b)Anypeaceofficermemberorfirefightermember,asdescribedinsubdivision(a),whobecomespermanentlyincapacitatedasaresultofexposuretoabiochemicalsubstanceshallreceiveaservice-connecteddisabilityretirement.

(c)Thepresumptiondescribedinsubdivision(a)isrebuttablebyotherevidence.Unlessrebutted,theboardisboundtofindinaccordancewiththepresumption.Thispresumptionshallbeextendedtoamemberfollowingterminationofserviceforaperiodofthreecalendarmonthsforeachfullyearoftherequisiteservice,butnottoexceed60monthsinanycircumstance,commencingwiththelastdateactuallyworkedinthespecifiedcapacity.

(d)Forpurposesofthissection,apeaceofficermemberorfirefightermember,asdescribedinsubdivision(a),doesnotincludeamemberwhoseprincipaldutiesareclericalor otherwise do not clearly fall within the scope of active law enforcement services or active firefightingservices,suchasstenographers,telephoneoperators,andotherofficeworkers.

(e)“Biochemicalsubstance”meansanybiologicalorchemicalagentthatmaybeusedasaweaponofmassdestruction,including,butnotlimitedto,anychemicalwarfareagent,weaponizedbiologicalagent,ornuclearorradiologicalagent,asthesetermsaredefinedinSection11417ofthePenalCode.


§31721. Persons entitled to make application; transfer of appeals to retirement board(a)Amembermayberetiredfordisabilityupontheapplicationofthemember,thehead

oftheofficeordepartmentinwhichheisorwaslastemployed,theboardoritsagents,oranyotherpersononhisbehalf,exceptthatanemployermaynotseparatebecauseofdisabilityamemberotherwiseeligibletoretirefordisabilitybutshallapplyfordisabilityretirementofanyeligiblememberbelievedtobedisabled,unlessthememberwaivestherighttoretirefordisabilityandelectstowithdrawcontributionsortopermitcontributionstoremaininthefundwithrightstoserviceretirementasprovidedinArticle9(commencingwithSection31700).

(b)Whenamemberappealsfromaseparationfordisability,disputingtheemployer’sassertionorassumptionthatheisnoteligiblefordisabilityretirement,theofficial,entityotherthantheboard,orcourttowhomappealedshalltransfertheproceedingstotheboardfordeterminationoftheeligibilityandofdisabilityifsoeligible.

Theappointingauthorityshallhavetheburdenofprovingdisability.Thereafter,theappellantshallhavetheburdenofprovingjobcausation.

Thissubdivisionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,maketheprovisionsapplicableinthatcounty.


§31722. Time for applicationTheapplicationshallbemadewhilethememberisinservice,withinfourmonthsafter

his or her discontinuance of service, within four months after the expiration of any period duringwhichapresumptionisextendedbeyondhisorherdiscontinuanceofservice,orwhile, from the date of discontinuance of service to the time of the application, he or she is

Article10,§31720.9.-§31722. 254

continuouslyphysicallyormentallyincapacitatedtoperformhisorherduties.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.317(AB2176),Sec.3)

§31723. Necessity of proof; medical examinationTheboardmayrequiresuchproof,includingamedicalexaminationattheexpense

ofthemember,asitdeemsnecessaryortheboarduponitsownmotionmayorderamedicalexaminationtodeterminetheexistenceofthedisability.


§31724. Action of board on proof of incapacity; time allowances become effectiveIftheproofreceived,includinganymedicalexamination,showstothesatisfaction

oftheboardthatthememberispermanentlyincapacitatedphysicallyormentallyfortheperformance of his duties in the service, it shall retire him effective on the expiration date ofanyleaveofabsencewithcompensationtowhichheshallbecomeentitledundertheprovisionsofDivision4(commencingwithSection3201)oftheLaborCodeoreffectiveontheoccasionofthemember’sconsenttoretirementpriortotheexpirationofsuchleaveofabsencewithcompensation.Hisdisabilityretirementallowanceshallbeeffectiveasofthedatesuchapplicationisfiledwiththeboard,butnotearlierthanthedayfollowingthelastdayforwhichhereceivedregularcompensation.Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthisarticle,theretirementofamemberwhohasbeengrantedorisentitledtosickleaveshallnotbecomeeffectiveuntiltheexpirationofsuchsickleavewithcompensationunlessthememberconsentstohisretirementatanearlierdate.

Whenithasbeendemonstratedtothesatisfactionoftheboardthatthefilingofthemember’sapplicationwasdelayedbyadministrativeoversightorbyinabilitytoascertainthepermanencyofthemember’sincapacityuntilafterthedatefollowingthedayforwhichthememberlastreceivedregularcompensation,suchdatewillbedeemedtobethedatetheapplicationwasfiled.


§31725. Determination of incapacity; notice of denial; judicial review or intervention by employer; reinstatement of dismissed employeePermanentincapacityfortheperformanceofdutyshallinallcasesbedeterminedbythe

board.Ifthemedicalexaminationandotheravailableinformationdonotshowtothe

satisfactionoftheboardthatthememberisincapacitatedphysicallyormentallyfortheperformanceofhisdutiesintheserviceandthemember’sapplicationisdeniedonthisgroundtheboardshallgivenoticeofsuchdenialtotheemployer.TheemployermayobtainjudicialreviewofsuchactionoftheboardbyfilingapetitionforwritofmandateinaccordancewiththeCodeofCivilProcedureorbyjoiningorinterveninginsuchactionfiledbythememberwithin30daysofthemailingofsuchnotice.Ifsuchpetitionisnotfiledorthecourtentersjudgmentdenyingthewrit,whetheronthepetitionoftheemployerorthemember,andtheemployerhasdismissedthememberfordisabilitytheemployershallreinstatethemembertohisemploymenteffectiveasofthedayfollowingtheeffectivedateofthedismissal.


§31725.5. Change of position in lieu of disability retirement allowance members eligible to retire for nonservice-connected disabilityIftheboardfinds,onmedicaladvice,thatamemberincountyemployment,although

Article10,§31722.-§31725.5.255

incapacitatedfortheperformanceofhisduties,iscapableofperformingotherdutiesintheserviceofthecounty,themembershallnotbeentitledtoadisabilityretirementallowanceifanycompetentauthorityinaccordancewithanyapplicablecivilserviceormeritsystemprocedures offers and he accepts a transfer, reassignment, or other change to a position with dutieswithinhiscapacitytoperformwithhisdisability.Ifthisnewpositionreturnstothemembercompensationlessthanthatofthepositionfromwhichhewasdisabled,theboard,inlieuofadisabilityretirementallowance,shallpayhimthedifferenceinsuchcompensationuntilthecompensationofthenewpositionequalsorexceedsthecompensation(includinglaterchanges)oftheformerposition,butsuchamountshallnotexceedtheamounttowhichhewouldotherwisebeentitledasadisabilityretirementallowance.Suchpaymentsinlieuofdisabilityretirementallowanceshallbeconsideredasachargeagainstcountyadvancereserveforcurrentservice.

Ifanewpositioncannotbearrangedatthetimeofeligibilityfordisabilityretirementallowance,suchdisabilityretirementallowancetowhichthememberisentitledunderthisarticleshallbepaiduntilsuchtimeasanewpositionisavailableandaccepted.

Ifadisabilityretirementallowanceispaidandthememberlateracceptssuchanewposition,theperiodwhileondisabilityretirementshallnotbeconsideredasbreakingthecontinuityofserviceandhisrateofcontributionsshallbebasedonthesameageasitwasatthedateofdisability.Themember’saccumulatedcontributionsshallbethesameasatthedatehisdisabilityretirementbeganlesstheamountchargedtohisaccumulatednormalcontributions.

Nothinginthissectionshallbeconstruedtorequireamembertoacceptreassignmentortransferinlieuofadisabilityretirementallowance.

Theprovisionsofthissectionbecomeeffectiveinanycountyonlywhentheboardofsupervisorsadoptsanordinanceprovidingfortheirimplementationbytheboardofretirementwhichmayincludeapplicationtopersonsretiredfordisabilitybeforesucheffectivedate.

Theprovisionsofthissectionshallonlyapplytomemberseligibletoretirefornonservice-connecteddisability.


§31725.6. Member rehabilitation program; vocational evaluation; plan; disability retirement allowance and supplemental allowance(a)Whentheboardfinds,basedonmedicaladvice,thatamemberincountyserviceis

incapacitatedfortheperformanceofthemember’sduties,theboardshalldetermine,baseduponthatmedicaladvice,whetherthememberiscapableofperformingotherduties.Iftheboarddeterminesthatamember,althoughincapacitatedfortheperformanceofthemember’sduties,iscapableofperformingotherduties,theboardshallinformtheappropriateagencyincountyserviceofitsfindingsandrequestthattheagencyimmediatelyinitiateasuitablerehabilitationprogramforthememberpursuanttoSection139.5oftheLaborCode,wherebythemembercouldbecomequalifiedforassignmenttoapositionincountyserviceconsistentwiththerehabilitationprogram.

(b)Whentheappropriateagencyincountyservicereceivessucharequestfromtheboard,theagencyshallimmediatelyreferthemembertoaqualifiedrehabilitationrepresentativeforvocationalevaluation.Duringthecourseoftheevaluation,therehabilitationrepresentative shall consult with the appropriate agency in county service to determine what position,ifany,incountyservicewouldbecompatiblewiththemember’saptitudes,interests,andabilitiesandwhetherrehabilitationserviceswillenablethemembertobecomequalifiedtoperformthedutiesoftheposition.

(c)Uponcompletionofthevocationalevaluationofthemember,therehabilitation

Article10,§31725.5.-§31725.6. 256

representativeshalldevelopasuitablerehabilitationplanandsubmittheplanforconcurrencebythememberandtheappropriateagencyincountyserviceand,thereafter,theagencyshallforwardtheplantotheDivisionofIndustrialAccidentsforapprovalpursuanttoSection139.5oftheLaborCode.

(d)Uponreceiptofapprovaloftherehabilitationplan,theappropriateagencyincountyserviceshallnotifytheboardthattheagencyiseitherproceedingtoimplementanapprovedrehabilitationplanthatwillqualifythememberforapositionincountyservicespecifiedintheplanorisunabletoprovideapositionincountyservicecompatiblewiththeapprovedrehabilitationplan.

(e)Uponcommencementofservicebythememberinthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedrehabilitationplan,themembershallnotbepaidthedisabilityretirementallowancetowhichthememberwouldotherwisebeentitledduringtheentireperiodthatthememberremainsincountyservice.However,ifthecompensationrateofthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedrehabilitationplanislessthanthecompensationrateofthepositionforwhichthememberwasincapacitated,theboardshall,inlieuofthedisabilityretirementallowance,paytothememberasupplementaldisabilityallowanceinanamountequaltothedifferencebetweenthecompensationrateofthepositionforwhichthememberwasincapacitated,applicableonthedateofthecommencementofservicebythememberinthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedrehabilitationplan,andthecompensationrateofthepositionspecifiedintheplan,applicableonthesamedate.Thesupplementaldisabilityallowanceshallbeadjustedannuallytoequalthedifferencebetweenthecurrentcompensationrateofthepositionforwhichthememberwasincapacitatedandthecurrentcompensationofthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedrehabilitationplan.Thesupplementaldisabilityallowancepaymentsshallcommenceuponsuspensionofthedisabilityretirementallowanceandtheamountofthepaymentsshallnotbegreaterthanthedisabilityretirementallowancetowhichthememberwouldotherwisebeentitled.Supplementaldisabilityallowancepaymentsmadepursuanttothissectionshallbeconsidered as a charge against the county advance reserve for current service, and all of these paymentsreceivedbyamembershallbeconsideredasapartofthemember’scompensationwithinthemeaningofSection31460.

(f)Fromthetimethatthememberiseligibletoreceiveadisabilityretirementallowanceuntiltheappropriateagencyisabletoprovidethepositionincountyservicespecifiedintheapprovedrehabilitationplan,andthememberhascommencedserviceinthatposition,thedisabilityretirementallowancetowhichthememberisentitledunderthisarticleshallbepaid.Uponcommencementofservicebythememberinthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedrehabilitationplan,theperiodduringwhichthememberwasreceivingdisabilityretirementpaymentsshallnotbeconsideredasbreakingthecontinuityofthemember’sservice,andtherateofthemember’scontributionsshallcontinuetobebasedonthesameageatentranceintotheretirementsystemasthemember’srateswerebasedonpriortothedateofthemember’sdisability.Themember’saccumulatedcontributionsshallnotbereducedasaresultofthememberreceivingthedisabilityretirementpayments,butshallbeincreasedbytheamountofinterestthatwouldhaveaccruedhadthemembernotbeenretired.

(g)NotwithstandingSection31560,amemberwhoseprincipaldutieswhileservinginthepositionforwhichthememberwasincapacitated,consistedofactivitiesdefinedinSection31469.3shall,uponcommencementofservicebythememberinthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedrehabilitationplan,continuetobeconsideredassatisfyingtherequirementsofSection31560,notwithstandingtheactualdutiesperformedduringtheentireperiodthatthememberremainsincountyservice.

(h)If,withinoneyearfromthedatethatthememberhasbeeneligibleforadisabilityretirementallowance,theappropriateagencyincountyservicehasofferedtothemember,in

Article10,§31725.6.257

writing,thepositionspecifiedintherehabilitationplanwhichhadpreviouslybeenconcurred,inwriting,bythememberandapprovedbytheDivisionofIndustrialAccidentspursuanttoSection139.5oftheLaborCode,themembershall,within30daysofreceiptofthenotice,reportfordutyatthelocationspecifiedinthenotice.Ifthememberrefusestoreportfordutywithinthetimespecified,theappropriateagencyincountyservicemayapplytotheboardtohavethemember’sallowancediscontinued.

Theboardshallbeauthorizedtodiscontinuethemember’sdisabilityretirementallowanceifbaseduponsubstantialevidenceoftherefusalofthemembertoreporttoworkwithoutreasonablecause.However,theboardshallnotbeauthorizedtoimpairanyotheroftherightsorretirementbenefitstowhichthememberwouldotherwisebeentitled.

(i)Thissectionshallapplyonlytomemberswhowereincapacitatedfortheperformanceofthemember’sdutiespriortoJanuary1,2004,andwhoareeligibletoretireforservice-connecteddisability.

(AmendedbyStats.1992,Ch.132,Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.379(AB2982),Sec.1,EffectiveAugust30,2004)

§31725.65. Reemployment plan for incapacitated members; Application to incapacitation on or after January 1, 2004.(a)Whentheboardfinds,basedonmedicaladvice,thatamemberincountyserviceis

incapacitatedfortheperformanceofthemember’sduties,theboardshalldetermine,baseduponthatmedicaladvice,whetherthemembermaybecapableofperformingotherduties.Iftheboarddeterminesthatamember,althoughincapacitatedfortheperformanceofthemember’sduties,iscapableofperformingotherduties,theboardshallnotifytheappropriateagencyincountyserviceofitsfindings.

(b)Whentheappropriateagencyincountyservicereceivesthatnotificationfromtheboard,theagencyshallimmediatelyinformthememberofanyvacantcountypositionsthatmaybesuitableforthemember,consistentwithhisorherdisability,andshallconsultwiththememberinanefforttodevelopareemploymentplanthatshallidentifywhatposition,ifany,incountyservicewouldbecompatiblewiththemember’saptitudes,interests,andabilities.

(c)Uponapprovalbythememberofthereemploymentplan,theappropriateagencyincountyserviceshallnotifytheboardthattheagencyisproceedingtoimplementtheapprovedreemploymentplan.

(d)Uponcommencementofservicebythememberinthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedreemploymentplan,themembershallnotbepaidthedisabilityretirementallowancetowhichthememberwouldotherwisebeentitledduringtheentireperiodthatthememberremainsincountyservice.

However,ifthecompensationrateofthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedreemploymentplanislessthanthecompensationrateofthepositionforwhichthememberwasincapacitated,theboardshall,inlieuofthedisabilityretirementallowance,paytothememberasupplementaldisabilityallowanceinanamountequaltothedifferencebetweenthecompensationrateofthepositionforwhichthememberwasincapacitated,applicableonthedateofthecommencementofservicebythememberinthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedreemploymentplan,andthecompensationrateofthepositionspecifiedintheplan,applicableonthesamedate.Thesupplementaldisabilityallowanceshallbeadjustedannuallytoequalthedifferencebetweenthecurrentcompensationrateofthepositionforwhichthememberwasincapacitatedandthecurrentcompensationofthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedreemploymentplan.Thesupplementaldisabilityallowancepaymentsshallcommenceuponsuspensionofthedisabilityretirementallowanceandtheamountofthepaymentsshallnotbegreaterthanthedisabilityretirementallowancetowhichthememberwouldotherwisebe

Article10,§31725.6.-§31725.65. 258

entitled.Supplementaldisabilityallowancepaymentsmadepursuanttothissectionshallbeconsidered as a charge against the county advance reserve for current service, and all of these paymentsreceivedbyamembershallbeconsideredasapartofthemember’scompensationwithinthemeaningofSection31460.

(e)Fromthetimethatthememberiseligibletoreceiveadisabilityretirementallowanceuntiltheappropriateagencyisabletoprovidethepositionincountyservicespecifiedintheapprovedreemploymentplan,andthememberhascommencedserviceinthatposition,thedisabilityretirementallowancetowhichthememberisentitledunderthisarticleshallbepaid.Uponcommencementofservicebythememberinthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedreemploymentplan,theperiodduringwhichthememberwasreceivingdisabilityretirementpaymentsshallnotbeconsideredasbreakingthecontinuityofthemember’sservice,andtherateofthemember’scontributionsshallcontinuetobebasedonthesameageatentranceintotheretirementsystemonwhichthemember’srateswerebasedpriortothedateofthemember’sdisability.Themember’saccumulatedcontributionsshallnotbereducedasaresultofthememberreceivingthedisabilityretirementpayments,butshallbeincreasedbytheamountofinterestthatwouldhaveaccruedhadthemembernotbeenretired.

(f)NotwithstandingSection31560,amemberwhoseprincipalduties,whileservinginthepositionforwhichthememberwasincapacitated,consistedofactivitiesdefinedinSection31469.3shall,uponcommencementofservicebythememberinthepositionspecifiedintheapprovedreemploymentplan,continuetobeconsideredassatisfyingtherequirementsofSection31560,notwithstandingtheactualdutiesperformedduringtheentireperiodthatthememberremainsincountyservice.

(g)Thissectionshallapplyonlytomemberswhoareincapacitatedfortheperformanceofthemember’sdutiesonorafterJanuary1,2004,andwhoareeligibletoretireforservice-connecteddisability.

(AddedbyStats.2004,Ch.379(AB2982),Sec.2,EffectiveAugust30,2004)(AmendedbyStats.2005,Ch.22(SB1108),Sec.90)

§31725.7. Service retirement allowance pending determination of entitlement(a)Atanytimeafterfilinganapplicationfordisabilityretirementwiththeboard,

themembermay,ifeligible,applyfor,andtheboardinitsdiscretionmaygrant,aserviceretirementallowancependingthedeterminationofhisorherentitlementtodisabilityretirement.Ifheorsheisfoundtobeeligiblefordisabilityretirement,appropriateadjustmentsshallbemadeinhisorherretirementallowanceretroactivetotheeffectivedateofhisorherdisabilityretirementasprovidedinSection31724.

(b)Thissectionshallnotbeconstruedtoauthorizeamembertoreceivemorethanonetypeofretirementallowanceforthesameperiodoftimenortoentitleanybeneficiarytoreceivebenefitswhichthebeneficiarywouldnototherwisehavebeenentitledtoreceiveunderthetypeofretirementwhichthememberisfinallydeterminedtohavebeenentitled.IntheeventamemberretiredforserviceisfoundnottobeentitledtodisabilityretirementheorsheshallnotbeentitledtoreturntohisorherjobasprovidedinSection31725.

(c)Iftheretiredmembershoulddiebeforeafinaldeterminationismadeconcerningentitlementtodisabilityretirement,therightsofthebeneficiaryshallbeasselectedbythememberatthetimeofretirementforservice.Theoptionalorunmodifiedtypeofallowanceselectedbythememberatthetimeofretirementforserviceshallalsobebindingastothetypeofallowancethememberreceivesifthememberisawardedadisabilityretirement.

(d)Notwithstandingsubdivision(c),iftheretiredmembershoulddiebeforeafinaldeterminationismadeconcerningentitlementtodisabilityretirement,therightsofthebeneficiarymaybeasselectedbythememberatthetimeofretirementforservice,orasifthe

Article10,§31725.65.-§31725.7.259

memberhadselectedanunmodifiedallowance.Theoptionalorunmodifiedtypeofallowanceselectedbythememberatthetimeofretirementforserviceshallnotbebindingastothetypeofallowancethememberreceivesifthememberisawardedadisabilityretirement.Achangetotheoptionalorunmodifiedtypeofallowanceshallbemadeonlyatthetimeamemberisawardedadisabilityretirementandthechangeshallberetroactivetotheserviceretirementdateandbenefitspreviouslypaidshallbeadjusted.Ifachangetotheoptionalorunmodifiedtypeofallowanceisnotmade,thebenefitshallbeadjustedtoreflectthedifferencesinretirementbenefitspreviouslyreceived.ThisparagraphshallonlyapplytomemberswhoretireonorafterJanuary1,1999.

(AddedbyStats.1977,Ch.25,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1996,Ch.493(SB792),Sec.6)(AmendedbyStats.1998,Ch.132(SB2137),Sec.2)

§31725.8. Nonservice-connected disability retirement allowance to members applying for rehearing on service-connected disability claims; intervening death of memberIfanyapplicantforservice-connecteddisabilityretirementisfoundbytheboardtobe

permanentlyphysicallyormentallyincapacitatedfortheperformanceofhisdutiesbutnotbecauseofinjuryordiseasearisingoutofandinthecourseofhisemployment,hemayapplyfor,andtheboardinitsdiscretionmaygrant,anonservice-connecteddisabilityretirementallowancewhileheispursuinganyrehearingbeforetheboardorjudicialreviewconcerninghisrighttoservice-connecteddisabilityretirement.Ifhisdisabilityisfinallydeterminedtohavebeenservice-connected,appropriateadjustmentsshallbemadeinhisretirementallowanceretroactivetotheeffectivedateofhisdisabilityretirement.

Ifanymemberdiesafterelectingtoreceivenonservice-connecteddisabilityretirementandbeforethequestionofhisentitlementtoservice-connecteddisabilityretirementisfinallyresolved,therightsofhisbeneficiaryshallbethoseselectedbythememberatthetimeheelectedtoreceivenonservice-connecteddisabilityretirement.


§31726. Nonservice-connected disability; benefits at and under age 65Uponretirementfornonservice-connecteddisabilityamemberwhohasattainedage65

shallreceivehisorherserviceretirementallowance.Everymemberunderage65whoisretiredfornonservice-connecteddisabilityand

whoisnotsimultaneouslyretiredasamemberondeferredretirementoftheStateEmployees’RetirementSystemoraretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercountyshallreceiveadisabilityretirementallowancewhichshallbethegreaterofthefollowing:

(a)Thesumtowhichheorshewouldbeentitledasserviceretirement.(b)Asumwhichshallconsistofanyofthefollowing:

(1)Anannuitywhichistheactuarialequivalentofhisorheraccumulatedcontributionsatthetimeofhisorherretirement.

(2)If,intheopinionoftheboard,hisorherdisabilityisnotduetointemperateuseofalcoholicliquorordrugs,willfulmisconduct,orviolationoflawonhisorherpart,adisabilityretirementpensionpurchasedbycontributionsofthecountyordistrict.

(3)If,intheopinionoftheboard,hisorherdisabilityisnotduetoconvictionofafelonyorcriminalactivitywhichcausedorresultedinthemember’sdisability,adisabilityretirementpensionpurchasedbycontributionsofthecountyordistrict.ThisparagraphshallonlyapplytoapersonwhobecomesamemberofthesystemonorafterJanuary1,1988.


Article10,§31725.7.-§31726. 260

§31726.5. Safety member; nonservice-connected disability; benefits at age 55; benefits under age 55Uponretirementfornonservice-connecteddisabilityasafetymemberwhohasattained

age55shallreceivehisorherserviceretirementallowance.Everysafetymemberunderage55whoisretiredfornonservice-connecteddisabilityandwhoisnotsimultaneouslyretiredasamemberondeferredretirementofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemoraretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercountyshallreceiveadisabilityretirementallowancewhichshallbethegreaterof:

(a)Thesumtowhichheorshewouldbeentitledtoasserviceretirement;or(b)Asumwhichshallconsistof:

(1)Anannuitywhichistheactuarialequivalentofhisorheraccumulatedcontributionsatthetimeofhisorherretirement.

(2)If,intheopinionoftheboard,hisorherdisabilityisnotduetointemperateuseofalcoholicliquorordrugs,willfulmisconduct,orviolationoflawonhisorherpart,adisabilityretirementpensionpurchasedbycontributionsofthecountyordistrict.

(3)If,intheopinionoftheboard,hisorherdisabilityisnotduetoconvictionofafelonyorcriminalactivitywhichcausedorresultedinthemember’sdisability,adisabilityretirementpensionpurchasedbycontributionsofthecountyordistrict.

Paragraph(3)shallonlyapplytoapersonwhobecomesamemberoftheassociationonorafterJanuary1,1988.


§31727. Nonservice-connected disability retirement pension; amountThenonservice-connecteddisabilityretirementpensionshallbesuchanamountas

withthatportionofhisannuityprovidedbyhisaccumulatednormalcontributionswillmakehisdisabilityretirementallowance,exclusiveoftheannuityprovidedbyhisaccumulatedadditionalcontributions,equal:

(a)Ninetypercentofone-sixtiethofhisfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicecreditedtohim,if(1)themembermustrelyuponserviceinanotherretirementsysteminordertobeeligibletoretireor(2)suchdisabilityretirementallowanceexceedsone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation.

(b)Ifthememberiseligibletoretirewithoutrelyinguponserviceinanotherretirementsystem,andthedisabilityretirementallowancecomputedunder(a)doesnotexceedone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation,90percentofone-sixtiethofhisfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicewhichwouldbecreditabletohimwerehisservicetocontinueuntilattainmentbyhimofage65,butinsuchcasetheretirementallowanceshallnotexceedone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation.


§31727.01. Contra Costa County disability retirement pension; amount (Contra Costa)NotwithstandingSections31727and31727.4,ifthememberiseligibletoretirewithout

relyinguponserviceinanotherretirementsystem,thedisabilityretirementpensionofamembercoveredunderSection31751shallbesuchanamountaswiththatportionofthemember’sannuityprovidedbythemember’saccumulatednormalcontributionswillmakethemember’sdisabilityretirementallowance,exclusiveoftheannuityprovidedbythemember’saccumulatedadditionalcontributions,equal40percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationasdefinedinSection31462.

Inadditiontotheabovedisabilityallowance,10percentofthemember’sfinalcompensationshallbepaidonbehalfofeachofthemember’schildrenuptoamaximumof

Article10,§31726.5.-§31727.01.261

threechildren.Asusedinthissection,“child”meansamember’schildwhoisdependentuponsuch

memberatthetimeofthemember’sdisabilityandwhilesuchchildisunmarriedand:(a)Under18yearsofage,or(b)Whetherunderorover18yearsofage,totallydisabledandsuchdisabilityoccurred

priortosuchchildattainingtheageof18years,or(c)Eighteenyearsofageorover,buthasnotattainedtheageof22years,andisenrolled

asafull-timestudentinanaccreditedschool,asdeterminedbytheboard.Ifthememberisrequiredtorelyuponserviceinanotherretirementsystemtobeeligible

toretire,theabovedisabilityretirementpensionandchildren’sallowanceshallbemultipliedbyone-tenthtimestheyearsofservice.

Disabilitybenefitsshallbeoffsetbytheamountsofdisabilitypaymentsfromotherplansofthecountyandothergovernmentalplans,exceptworkers’compensationandfederalsocialsecuritypayments.


§31727.1. Service retirement allowance in counties adopting Section 31676.12; amount; applicationIncountiesadoptingSection31676.12,amemberuponretirementfornonservice-

connecteddisability,whohasattainedage62,shallreceivehisserviceretirementallowance.Thenonservice-connecteddisabilityretirementpensionforamemberunderage62shall

besuchanamountaswiththatportionofamember’sannuityprovidedbyhisaccumulatednormalcontributionswillmakehisdisabilityretirementallowanceequal:

(a)Ninetypercentofone-fiftiethofhisfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicecreditedtohim,if(1)themembermustrelyuponserviceinanotherretirementsysteminordertobeeligibletoretireor(2)suchdisabilityretirementallowanceexceedsone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation.

(b)Ifthememberiseligibletoretirewithoutrelyinguponserviceinanotherretirementsystemandthedisabilityretirementallowancecomputedundersubdivision(a)doesnotexceedone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation,90percentofone-fiftiethofhisfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicewhichwouldbecreditabletohimwerehisservicetocontinueuntilattainmentbyhimofage62,butinsuchcasetheretirementallowanceshallnotexceedone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation.

Theamendmentstothissectionduringthe1975-76RegularSessionoftheLegislatureshallnotapplyinanycountyuntiladoptedbymajorityvoteofthecountysupervisorsofthatcounty.


§31727.2. Safety member; nonservice-connected disability retirement pension; amountThenonservice-connecteddisabilityretirementpensionforasafetymembershall

besuchanamountaswiththatportionofhisannuityprovidedbyhisaccumulatednormalcontributions,willmakehisdisabilityretirementallowanceequal:

(a)Ninetypercentofone-fiftiethofhisfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicecreditedtohim,if(1)themembermustrelyuponserviceinanotherretirementsysteminordertobeeligibletoretireor(2)suchdisabilityretirementallowanceexceedsone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation.

(b)Ifthememberiseligibletoretirewithoutrelyinguponserviceinanotherretirementsystem,andthedisabilityretirementallowancecomputedunder(a)doesnotexceedone-third

Article10,§31727.01.-§31727.2. 262

ofhisfinalcompensation,90percentofone-fiftiethofhisfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicewhichwouldbecreditabletohimwerehisservicetocontinueuntilattainmentbyhimofage55,butinsuchcasetheretirementallowanceshallnotexceedone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation.


§31727.3. Nonservice-connected disability retirement pension in counties adopting Section 31676.15; amountIncountiesadoptingSection31676.15,thenonservice-connecteddisabilityretirement

pensionshallbesuchanamountaswiththatportionofamember’sannuityprovidedbyhisaccumulatednormalcontributionswillmakehisdisabilityretirementallowance,exclusiveoftheannuityprovidedbyhisaccumulatedadditionalcontributions,equal:

(a)Ninetypercentofone-fiftiethofhisfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicecreditedtohim,if(1)themembermustrelyuponserviceinanotherretirementsysteminordertobeeligibletoretire,or(2)suchdisabilityretirementallowanceexceedsone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation.

(b)Ifthememberiseligibletoretirewithoutrelyinguponserviceinanotherretirementsystemandthedisabilityretirementallowancecomputedundersubdivision(a)doesnotexceedone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation,90percentofone-fiftiethofhisfinalcompensationmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicewhichwouldbecreditabletohimwerehisservicetocontinueuntilattainmentbyhimofage65,butinsuchcasetheretirementallowanceshallnotexceedone-thirdofhisfinalcompensation.


§31727.4. Service-connected disability pension; amount; application of sectionUponretirementofanymemberforservice-connecteddisability,heshallreceivean

annualretirementallowancepayableinmonthlyinstallments,equaltoone-halfofhisfinalcompensation.Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthischapter,anymemberuponretirementforservice-connecteddisabilityshallreceiveacurrentservicepensionoracurrentservicepensioncombinedwithapriorservicepensionpurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficientwhichwhenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuitywillequalone-halfofhisfinalcompensation,or,ifqualifiedforaserviceretirement,heshallreceivehisserviceretirementallowanceifsuchallowanceisgreaterbutinnoeventshallitexceedthelimitationassetforthinSection31676.1asitnowreadsormayhereafterbeamendedtoread.Theprovisionsofthissectionshallalsoapplytoanyemployeewhobecomesdisabledforservice-connectedcausespriortothefirstdayofthecalendarmonthwhenhewouldnormallybecomeamember.


§31727.5. Increase in service-connected disability pensionTheboardofsupervisorsinanycounty,byamajorityvote,mayenactanordinance

providingthatthemaximumannualallowancepayabletoamemberpursuanttoSection31727.4whoistotallydisabledshallbeincreasedto60,70,80,or90percentofthemember’sfinalcompensation,asdeterminedbytheboard,ontheoperativedateofsuchordinance.

Forpurposesofthissection,“totallydisabled”meansinabilitytoperformsubstantialemploymentandthepresumptionscontainedinSection4662oftheLaborCodeshallalsobeappliedtothedeterminationoftotaldisability.


Article10,§31727.2.-§31727.5.263

§31727.6. Retirement for service-connected disability prior to September 11, 1957; calculation of retirement allowanceEveryretirementallowancepayablefortimecommencingontheeffectivedateofthis

sectiontooronaccountofanymemberofthissystemwhowasretiredforservice-connecteddisabilitypriortoSeptember11,1957,shallbecalculatedpursuanttotheprovisionsofSection31727.4.


§31727.7. Nonservice-connected disability pension; amount based on years of credited service; application of sectionUponretirementfornonservice-connecteddisability,inlieuofanyotherallowance,a

memberwhohasfiveyearsormorecreditedserviceshallreceiveadisabilityallowanceequaltothepercentageoffinalcompensationsetforthoppositethemember’snumberofyearsofcreditedserviceinthefollowingtable:

Percentage of Years of credited service: final compensation: Fiveyears,butlessthansixyears 20.0 Sixyears,butlessthansevenyears 22.0 Sevenyears,butlessthaneightyears 24.0 Eightyears,butlessthannineyears 26.0 Nineyears,butlessthantenyears 28.0 Tenyears,butlessthanelevenyears 30.0 Elevenyears,butlessthantwelveyears 32.0 Twelveyears,butlessthanthirteenyears 34.0 Thirteenyears,butlessthanfourteenyears 36.0 Fourteenyears,butlessthanfifteenyears 38.0 Fifteenormoreyears 40.0

This section shall only apply to the following persons:(a)Personswhobecomemembersoftheretirementsystemaftertheoperativedateof

thissectioninthecounty.(b)Thosepersonswhowerememberspriortosuchoperativedatewho,pursuanttoa

memorandumofunderstandingwiththeirbargainingunit,electtobesubjecttothissectiononoraftersuchoperativedate.

(c)Managementandconfidentialemployeesandemployeesnotapartofabargainingunitwhowerememberspriortosuchoperativedateandelecttobesubjecttothissectiononoraftersuchoperativedate.Theboardofsupervisorsshallprescribethetimeperiodandconditionsgoverningtheelection.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsbymajorityvotemakestheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31728. Lump sum payment due to member’s misconductIf,intheopinionoftheboard,thedisabilityisduetointemperateuseofalcoholic

liquorordrugs,willfulmisconduct,orviolationoflawonthepartofthemember,andhisannuityislessthantwohundredfortydollars($240)ayear,theboardmaypaythememberhisaccumulatedcontributionsinonelumpsuminlieuofhisannuity.


Article10,§31727.6.-§31728. 264

§31728.1. Contra Costa County; Lump sum payment; willful misconduct or violation of law (Contra Costa)NotwithstandingSection31728,if,intheopinionoftheboard,thedisabilityisdueto

willfulmisconductorviolationoflawonthepartofthemembercoveredunderSection31751,andthemember’sannuityislessthantwohundredfortydollars($240)ayear,theboardmaypaythemember’saccumulatedcontributionsinonelumpsuminlieuofthemember’sannuity.


§31728.2. Lump sum payment; disability due to conviction or criminal activityNotwithstandingSections31728and31728.1,if,intheopinionoftheboard,the

disabilityisduetoorresultsfromtheconvictionofthememberofafelonyunderstateorfederallaworiftheboarddeterminesthatthecriminalactivitycausedorresultedinthemember’sdisability,theboardmaypaythememberalumpsumwhichisequaltothesumofhisorheraccumulatedcontributionsinlieuofthebenefitstowhichthememberwouldotherwisebeentitledassetforthinthisarticleandprovidedthatnothinginthissectionshallbeconstruedtodivestamemberofanyvestedrighttoaserviceretirementallowance.

ThissectionshallapplyonlytoapersonwhobecomesamemberofthesystemonorafterJanuary1,1988.


§31729. Medical examination of beneficiary; determination of boardTheboardmayrequireanydisabilitybeneficiaryunderage55toundergomedical

examination.Theexaminationshallbemadebyaphysicianorsurgeonappointedbytheboardattheplaceofresidenceofthebeneficiaryorotherplacemutuallyagreedupon.Uponthebasisoftheexaminationtheboardshalldeterminewhetherthedisabilitybeneficiaryisstillphysicallyormentallyincapacitatedforserviceintheofficeordepartmentofthecountyordistrictwherehewasemployedandinthepositionheldbyhimwhenretiredfordisability.


§31730. Cancellation of benefits after medical examination; reinstatement in employmentIftheboarddeterminesthatthebeneficiaryisnotincapacitated,andhisorheremployer

offerstoreinstatethatbeneficiary,hisorherretirementallowanceshallbecanceledforthwith,andheorsheshallbereinstatedinthecountyservicepursuanttotheregulationsofthecountyordistrictforreemploymentofpersonnel.


§31731. Refusal to submit to examination; effectIfanydisabilitybeneficiaryunderage55refusestosubmittomedicalexamination,his

pensionshallbediscontinueduntilhiswithdrawalofsuchrefusal,andifhisrefusalcontinuesforoneyear,hisretirementallowanceshallbecanceled.


§31732. Medical, investigatory and other services; legal services; paymentTheboardshallsecuresuchmedical,investigatoryandotherserviceandadviceasis

necessarytocarryoutthepurposesofthisarticle.NotwithstandingSection31529,theboardmay contract with an attorney in private practice for the legal services and advice necessary to carryoutthepurposeofthisarticle.

Itshallpayforsuchservicesandadvicesuchcompensationasitdeemsreasonable.(AmendedbyStats.1976,Ch.1318,Sec.1)

Article10,§31728.1.-§31732.265

§31733. Reentry into county service; contributions; prior service creditIfadisabilitybeneficiaryisdeterminedbytheboardtobenolongerincapacitated

andre-enterstheserviceofapublicagencycoveredbytheretirementsystemunderwhichheretired,hisdisabilityretirementallowanceshallceaseimmediatelyuponsuchre-entry.Ifsuchdisabilitybeneficiaryagainbecomesamemberoftheretirementsystem,hisrateofcontributionforfutureyearsisthatestablishedforhisageatthetimeofhisre-entryintothesystem.

Hisindividualaccountshallbecreditedwithanamountwhichistheactuarialequivalentofhisannuityatthattime,asbaseduponthemortalitytableadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsfordisabledlives,lessanyamountthathasbeenrefundedtohimunderSection31737.Theamountshallnotexceedtheamountofhisaccumulatedcontributionsatthetimeofhisretirementfordisability.Heshallalsoreceivecreditforhisserviceasitexistedatthetimeofhisdisabilityretirement.


§31737. Effect of cancellation of retirement allowanceIftheretirementallowanceofanydisabilitybeneficiaryiscanceledforanycauseother

thanunderSection31733,heshallbepaidhisaccumulatedcontributions,lesstheannuitypaymentsmadetohim.


§31738. Calculation of retirement allowance paymentsEach payment of a retirement allowance, after the effective date of this section, to

abeneficiarywhoretiredpriortoSeptember20,1947,shallbecalculatedaccordingtotheprovisionsofthischapterastheyexistedonSeptember20,1947.


§31739. Increase of benefits of members retired for disability prior to January 1, 1948; adoption of section by county boardsEveryretirementallowancepayablefortimecommencingontheeffectivedateofthis

sectiontooronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystem,whowasretiredfordisabilitypriortoJanuary1,1948,isherebyincreasedbytwenty-fivedollars($25)permonthiftheretiredmemberisentitledtobecreditedwith20yearsormoreofservice,or,iftheretiredmemberisentitledtobecreditedwithlessthan20yearsofservice,byanamountwhichbearsthesameratiototwenty-fivedollars($25)asthemember’scompletedyearsofservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedbearsto20years.



§31739.2. Increase of benefits of members retired after January 1, 1948, but prior to February 1, 1955; adoption of section by county boardsEvery retirement allowance for time commencing on the effective date of this section

tooronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystem,whowasretiredfordisabilityonorafterJanuary1,1948,butpriortoFebruary1,1955,orsuchotherdatepriortoFebruary1,1955,astheboardofsupervisorsinanycountyshallspecifybyresolution,isherebyincreasedbytwenty-fivedollars($25)permonthiftheretiredmemberisentitledto

Article10,§31733.-§31739.2. 266

becreditedwith20yearsormoreofservice,or,iftheretiredmemberisentitledtobecreditedwithlessthan20yearsofservice,byanamountwhichbearsthesameratiototwenty-fivedollars($25)asthemember’scompletedyearsofservicewithwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedbearsto20years.



§31739.3. Increase of benefits payable to retired members for time commencing on September 15, 1961Everyretirementallowancepayablefortimecommencingontheeffectivedateofthis

sectiontooronaccountofanymemberofthissystem,orofasupersededsystem,whohasbeenretiredfordisability,isincreasedasfollows:


Innoeventshallanyallowancebeincreasedbyanamountgreaterthanfiftydollars($50)amonthnorlessthantendollars($10)amonth.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshallbyordinanceadoptedbymajorityvotemaketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcounty,providingfurtherthatanactuarialsurveyofthesystemhasbeenmadebytheadoptingcounty’ssystempriortothepassageofsaidordinance.


§31739.31. Increase in retirement, optional death and annual death allowances; adoption of section by ordinanceEvery retirement allowance, optional death allowance, or annual death allowance

(includinganallowancepayabletoasurvivorofamember)payabletooronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystemwhohasbeenorwasretiredfordisabilityisincreased as follows:


Innoeventshallanyallowancebeincreasedbyanamountgreaterthanfiftydollars($50)amonthorlessthantendollars($10)amonth.

Article10,§31739.2.-§31739.31.267



§31739.32. Increase in retirement, optional death and annual death allowances; adoption of section by ordinanceEvery retirement allowance, optional death allowance, or annual death allowance,

includinganallowancepayabletoasurvivorofamember,payabletooronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystemwhohasbeenorwasretiredfordisabilityisincreased as follows:


Innoeventshallanyallowancebeincreasedbyanamountgreaterthanseventy-five($75)amonthorlessthantwenty-fivedollars($25)amonth.Amemberwithcreditfor10ormoreyearsofserviceinthesystemshallreceivenotlessthantwenty-fivedollars($25)amonth.



§31739.33. Increase in retirement, optional death or annual death allowances under $500; adoption by county(a)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(b),aretirementallowance,optionaldeath

allowanceorannualdeathallowance,includinganallowancepayabletoasurvivorofamember,payabletooronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystemwhohasbeenorwasretiredfordisabilitywhichdidnotonJuly1,1976,exceedfivehundreddollars($500)permonthisherebyincreasedasfollows:

Number of years of Percentage of increase county or district in monthly retirement service allowance 25ormoreyears 10% 20-25years 8% 15-20years 6%

(b)Noallowanceshallbeincreasedtomorethanfivehundreddollars($500)permonthpursuanttosubdivision(a).

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinacountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinthatcounty.

(AddedbyStats.1976,Ch.627,Sec.2)(AmendedbyStats.2008,Ch.179(SB1498),Sec.104)

Article10,§31739.31.-§31739.33. 268

§31739.34. Increase in retirement, optional death or annual death allowances under $500; adoption by county(a)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(b)ofthissection,aretirementallowance,optional

deathallowanceorannualdeathallowance,includinganallowancepayabletoasurvivorofamember,payabletooronaccountofanymemberofthissystem,orofasupersededsystem,whoretiredfordisabilityonorbeforeDecember31,1971,isherebyincreasedasfollows:

Number of years of Percentage of increase county or district in monthly retirement service allowance 25ormoreyears 10% 20-25years 8% 15-20years 6% 10-15years 4%

(b)Noallowanceshallbeincreasedtomorethanfivehundreddollars($500)permonthpursuanttosubdivision(a)ofthissection.



§31739.4. Temporary increase of benefits; finding by board of supervisorsEveryretirementallowancepayableduringthetimethissectionisoperativeinany

countyto,oronaccountofanymemberofthissystemorofasupersededsystem,whohasbeenretiredfordisabilityshallbeincreasedbyanamountequaltotheproductonedollar($1)timesyearsofservice,nottoexceed20years,timesthenumberinthefollowingtable:

Period during which retirement became effective Multiply by OnorpriortoJune30,1957 2.0 TwelvemonthsendedJune30,1958 1.5 TwelvemonthsendedJune30,1959 1.0 TwelvemonthsendedJune30,1960 0.5

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyexceptasfollows:Theboardofsupervisorsofacountyatanytimeandfromtimetotimemayfindthateconomicconditionsaresuchastorequireeitherthatthisentiresection,orthissectionasappliedtooneormorecategoriesofmembersintheabovetablebeapplicableinsuchcounty.Theboardofsupervisorsofsuchcountyfromtimetotimemayeitherrescindormodifysuchfindingandeitherfindthateconomicconditionsdonotrequirethatthissectionbeapplicableatallinsuchcountyorbeapplicabletoagreater,lesser,ordifferentextentthanpreviouslyfound.Thissectionorthissectionasappliedtooneormorecategoriesofmembersintheabovetable,asthecasemaybe,shallbeapplicableinsuchcountywhenandonlyduringthetimewhensuchfindingisineffect.ThegivingofadditionalretirementbenefitspursuanttothissectionshallcreatenoadditionalcontractualrightsandshallnotprecludethewithdrawalofsuchbenefitseitherbyactionoftheboardofsupervisorsoroftheLegislature.


§31739.5. Cost-of-living payments; applicability of provisionsTheprovisioninSection31681.8,whenadoptedorreadopted,shallapplytomembers

ofthissystemorasupersededsystemwhoretiredfordisability,exceptthatpaymentstoa

Article10,§31739.34.-§31739.5.269

memberofthissystemorasupersededsystemwhoretiredforservice-connecteddisabilityortothesurvivingbeneficiaryofsuchmembershallbecomputedonthebasisthatthemember’sservicehadcontinuedtoage60,ifasafetymember,orage70,ifanyothercategoryofmember,provided,thatthisadditionalservicecreditshallnotexceed30years.


§31740. Supplemental disability retirement allowanceInanycountywhichhasimplementedtheprovisionsofArticle15.6(commencingwith

Section31855),anymemberwhoisthereafterretiredfordisabilityshallreceiveasupplementaldisabilityretirementallowanceinthesumofthreehundreddollars($300)permonthinadditiontoanyotherbenefitsdueunderthischapter,providedthemember’sdisabilityissuchthatthememberisincapableofgainfulemployment.Theboardmayadoptregulations,includingarequirementforperiodicdeclarationsofnonemployment,toadministerthissupplementalallowance.


§31751. Tier Two, applicability to officers and employees of Contra Costa County; resolution; applicability to districts; coverage; regulations allowing coverage to individual employees; disability allowances; retroactive application (Contra Costa)Notwithstanding any other provision of law:(a)(1)TheBoardofSupervisorsofContraCostaCountymaymakethissection,Tier

Two,applicabletoofficersandemployeesofthecounty,byadoptingaresolutionspecifyingthefutureoperativedateofitsapplication.

(2)Aftertheboardofsupervisorshasadoptedthatresolution,thegoverningbodyofadistrictmaymakethissectionapplicableasTierTwotoitsofficersandemployeesonandafterthefutureoperativedateitspecifies.

(b)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection,TierTwoshallcoverallofficersandemployeeswhobecomemembersorreturntomembershipinthecountyonorafterApril4,1980,andinadistrictonorafterthedateofitsapplicabilitythereto.

(c)(1)Thissectionmaynotcoveranyemployeewhoisin,oreligiblefor,safetymembershipunderthischapter.

(2)Thissectionmaynotcoveranypersonwhoisamemberoftheretirementsystemin the county or district on the operative date of its application thereto unless and until the personvoluntarilyinwritingirrevocablyrequestscoverage.

(3)Thissectionmaynotcoveranymemberwhodoesnotrequestcoverage,isthenlaidoff,andlaterreturnstomembership.

(4)Thissectionmaynotcoveranymemberwhodoesnotrequestcoverage,thenbecomesadeferredmember,andlaterreturnstoactivemembership

(5)Thissectionmaynotcoveranypersonreferredtoinsubparagraph(C)ofparagraph(2)ofsubdivision(d)whodoesnotrequestcoverage.

(d)(1)TheboardofsupervisorsshalladoptregulationsallowingindividualcountyanddistrictemployeestoirrevocablyrequestcoverageunderTierTwo.

(2)Theregulationsshallspecifytheperiodduringwhicheachpersonmayrequestcoverage.

(A)Forpersonswhoareemployeesontheapplicabilitydateofthissection,TierTwo,tothecountyordistrict,thisperiodmaynotexceedoneyearafterthatdate.

(B)Forpersonsnotsubjecttosubparagraph(A),whobeforetheTierTwoapplicabilitydatechosedeferredretirementunderArticle9(commencingwithSection31700)fromthecounty’sTierOneretirementsystem,andwhothereafterwhilestillindeferredstatus

Article10,§31739.5.-§31751. 270

returnedtoactivemembership,thisperiodmaynotexceed90daysafterthatreturn.(C)Forpersonsnotsubjecttosubparagraph(A)whoenterorreenter

employmentinthecountyorthedistrict,forthefirsttimeafterTierTwoisapplicablethereto,withreciprocalrightsunderArticle15(commencingwithSection31830),thisperiodmaynotexceed90daysafterthatentryorreentry.

(e)Anyonerequestingcoverageasprovidedforinthissection,whobecomespermanentlyincapacitatedasdefinedinSection31720.1,shallbegrantedadisabilityallowanceunderSection31727.01ifthememberhascompletedfiveyearsofservice.

(f) This section is intended to, and shall, apply retroactively, from the effective date of theoriginalenactmentofSection31751,April4,1980,forwardsothatitsbeneficialeffectsandthoseoftheoriginalenactmentareavailabletoallpersonscoveredbythissectionasthoughithadbeenoriginallyenactedinitspresentform.

(g) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, if a county adopts a resolution pursuanttosubdivision(a)ofSection31755.1,thissectionmay,pursuanttoamemorandumofunderstandinginaccordancewiththeMeyers-Milias-BrownAct(Chapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1),bemadeinapplicabletothoseofficersandemployeesofthecountyspecifiedintheresolutionforserviceperformedonandaftertheoperativedatespecifiedinthememorandumofunderstanding.Inthatevent,thissectionshallalsobeinapplicabletononrepresentedemployeeswithinsimilarjobclassificationsasemployeesinapplicablebargainingunitsandtothesupervisorsandmanagersofthoseemployees.Ifadistrictadoptsaresolutionpursuanttosubdivision(a)ofSection31755.1,thissectionshallbeinapplicabletotheofficersandemployeesofthedistrictonandaftertheoperativedateoftheresolution.

(h)Nodistrictmaymakethissectionapplicabletoanyofitsofficersoremployeesonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheactaddingthissubdivision.

(RepealedandaddedbyStats.1984,Ch.591,Sec.4,EffectiveJuly19,1984)(AddedbyStats.2002,Ch.695(SB2100),Sec.2,EffectiveSeptember18,2002,asan

urgency statute)

§31752. Contra Costa County; retirement allowance (Contra Costa)ThissectionshallapplytomemberssubjecttoSection31751.Notwithstandinganyother

provisionofthischapter,thecurrentservicepensionorthecurrentservicepensioncombinedwiththepriorservicepensionisanadditionalpensionformemberspurchasedbythecontributionsofthecountyordistrictsufficient,whenaddedtotheserviceretirementannuity,toequal,asfollows:

(a)Thepercentageofthemember’sfinalcompensation,asdefinedinSection31462,inthefollowingtablesetforthinColumn(A)oppositethemember’sageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,multipliedbythenumberofyearsofserviceunderSection31751withwhichthememberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement,less

(b)Thepercentageofthemember’sPrimaryInsuranceAmounttowhichthemembershallbeentitledunderfederalsocialsecurity,projectedtoage62,ifthememberislessthanage62,ortowhichthememberisnowentitled,ifthememberisatleastage62,setforthinthefollowingtableinColumn(B)oppositethemember’sageatretirement,takentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryear,multipliedbythenumberofyearsofservicesubjecttoSection31751duringwhichthememberwascoveredbysocialsecuritywhileamemberofthecountyretirementassociation.Themaximumnumberofyearsusedinthiscalculationshallnotexceed30.

Article10,§31751.-§31752.271

Age at Percentages retirement (A) (B) 50 .830 .573 501/4 .845 .585 501/2 .860 .597 503/4 .875 .609 51 .890 .622 51 1/4 .905 .635 51 1/2 .920 .648 51 3/4 .935 .661 52 .950 .675 521/4 .965 .689 521/2 .980 .704 523/4 .995 .719 53 1.010 .734 53 1/4 1.025 .750 53 1/2 1.040 .766 53 3/4 1.055 .782 54 1.070 .799 54 1/4 1.085 .816 54 1/2 1.100 .834 54 3/4 1.115 .853 55 1.130 .872 55 1/4 1.145 .891 55 1/2 1.160 .911 55 3/4 1.175 .931 56 1.190 .952 561/4 1.205 .973 561/2 1.220 .995 563/4 1.235 1.017 57 1.250 1.040 57 1/4 1.265 1.064 57 1/2 1.280 1.088 57 3/4 1.295 1.113 58 1.310 1.139 581/4 1.325 1.165 581/2 1.340 1.192 583/4 1.355 1.220 59 1.370 1.249 59 1/4 1.385 1.279 59 1/2 1.400 1.309 59 3/4 1.415 1.340 60 1.430 1.372

Article10,§31752. 272

Age at Percentages retirement (A) (B) 601/4 1.445 1.405 601/2 1.460 1.440 603/4 1.475 1.475 61 1.490 1.511 611/4 1.505 1.548 611/2 1.520 1.587 613/4 1.535 1.626 62 1.550 1.667 621/4 1.565 1.667 621/2 1.580 1.667 623/4 1.595 1.667 63 1.610 1.667 631/4 1.625 1.667 631/2 1.640 1.667 633/4 1.655 1.667 64 1.670 1.667 641/4 1.685 1.667 641/2 1.700 1.667 643/4 1.715 1.667 65andover 1.730 1.667


§31755. Tier Three, applicability; coverage; disability retirement allowances; service retirements; cost-of-living adjustments; adoption of regulations(a)(1)TheboardofsupervisorsofContraCostaCountymaymakethissection,Tier

Three,applicabletoofficersandemployeesforwhomitisthegoverningbody,byadoptingaordinancespecifyingthefutureoperativedateofitsapplication.

(2)Asusedinthissection,“TierOne”referstotheretirementplancoveringgeneralmembersnotcoveredbySection31751.

(3)Aftertheboardofsupervisorshasadoptedanordinance,thegoverningbodyofadistrictnotgovernedbytheboardofsupervisorsmaymakethissectionapplicableasTierThreetoitsofficersandemployeesonandafterthefutureoperativedateitspecifies.

(b)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection,thissectionshallcoverallofficersandemployeeswhoaremembersorreturntomembershipinthecounty’sTierTworetirementsystemestablishedbySection31751onoraftertheoperativedatespecifiedintheordinanceadoptedpursuanttosubdivision(a),andinadistrictonorafterthedateofitsapplicabilitythereto.

(c)(1)Thissectionshallnotcoveranyemployeewhoisin,oreligiblefor,TierOneorsafetymembershipunderthischapter.

(2)Thissectionshallnotcoveranypersonwhoisamemberoftheretirementsystemin the county or district on or after the operative date of its application thereto unless and until thepersonvoluntarilyinwritingirrevocablyelectscoverage.

(3)Thissectionshallnotbeapplicabletoanyeligiblememberwhodoesnotelect

Article10,§31752.-§31755.273

coverage, is then laid off or terminates employment, regardless of whether voluntarily or involuntarily, andlaterreturnstomembershipemployment.

(4)Thissectionshallnotbeapplicabletoanyeligiblememberwhodoesnotelectcoverage,thenretiresorbecomesadeferredmember,andlaterreturnstoactivemembership.

(5)Thissectionshallnotbeapplicabletoanypersonreferredtoinsubparagraph(D)ofparagraph(2)ofsubdivision(d)whodoesnotelectcoverage.

(d)Uponadoptionofthissectionbytheboardofsupervisors,thefollowingprovisionsshallbecomeapplicable:

(1)Subjecttotheprovisionsofparagraph(2)ofsubdivision(d),anyqualifiedindividualcountyordistrictemployeemayirrevocablyelectcoverageunderTierThree.

(2)(A)Countyordistrictemployeeswhoaremembersofthecounty’sTierTworetirementsystemandwhohaveattainedfiveyearscreditedservicewiththecountyordistrictontheapplicabledateofthissection,mustelectTierThreecoverageinwritingwithinsixmonthsafterthatdate.

(B)Personsnotundersubparagraph(A),whothereafterattainfiveyearscreditedserviceinthecounty’sTierTworetirementsystem,mustelectTierThreecoverageinwritingwithin90daysafterattainingthefiveyearsretirementcreditedservice.

(C)Personsnotundersubparagraph(A)or(B),who,beforetheTierThreeapplicabilitydate,electeddeferredretirementunderArticle9(commencingwithSection31700)fromthecounty’sTierTworetirementsystem,andwhohadatleastfiveyearscreditedTierTwoservice,andwhothereafterwhilestillindeferredstatusreturntoactivemembership,mustelectcoverageinwritingwithin90daysafterthatreturn.

(D)Personsnotsubjecttosubparagraphs(A),(B),or(C),whoenterorreenteremploymentinthecountyorthedistrictforthefirsttimeafterTierThreeisapplicablethereto,andwhohavereciprocalrightsunderArticle15(commencingwithSection31830),andwhoareotherwiseeligibletoelectTierThreebyvirtueoftheirTierTwostatusandyearsofretirementcreditedservicemustelectTierThreecoverageinwritingwithin90daysafterthatentryorreentry.

(e)TheboardmaynotgrantadisabilityretirementallowancetoapersonwhohasbecomeaTierThreememberexceptasprovidedinSection31720.1.TheamountofdisabilityretirementallowancesunderTierThreeshallbeassetforthinSection31727.01.

(f) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, service retirements under Tier Three shall begovernedbythesameprovisionswhichgovernTierOneretirementsinContraCostaCounty.

(g)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,TierThreeretiredmemberswhohaveretiredforserviceshallonlybeentitledtocost-of-livingadjustmentsasprovidedbytheboardofsupervisorsforTierOneretiredmemberspursuanttoArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31830).

(h)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,TierThreeretiredmemberswhohavebeenretiredfordisabilityshallonlybeentitledtocost-of-livingadjustmentsasprovidedbytheboardofsupervisorsforTierTworetiredmemberspursuanttoArticle16.5(commencingwithSection31830).

(i)Theboardofsupervisorsmayadoptregulationstoimplementtheprovisionsofthissection.(AddedbyStats.1997,Ch.254(AB180),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2004,Ch.183(AB3082),Sec.169)(AmendedbyStats.2005,Ch.22(SB1108),Sec.91)

§31755.1. Applicability of Tier Three to officers and employees of Contra Costa County who become members or return to membership in the county or district; applicability or benefit formula to Tier Two service (Contra Costa)Notwithstanding any other provision of law:(a)(1)TheBoardofSupervisorsofContraCostaCountymay,pursuanttoamemorandumof

understandinginaccordancewiththeMeyers-Milias-BrownAct(Chapter10(commencingwithSection

Article10,§31755.-§31755.1. 274

3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1),adoptaresolutionmakingthissectionapplicabletotheofficersandemployeesofthecountyspecifiedintheresolutionandspecifyingthefutureoperativedateofitsapplication.

(2)Aftertheboardofsupervisorshasadoptedthatresolution,thegoverningbodyofadistrictmaymakethissectionapplicabletoitsofficersandemployeesbyadoptingaresolutionspecifyingthefutureoperativedateofitsapplication,whichdatemaynotbeearlierthantheoperativedateoftheresolutiondescribedinparagraph(1).

(b)(1)Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection,TierThree,asdescribedinSection31755,shallapplytoallofficersandemployeeswhobecomemembersorreturntomembershipin the county or district, and with respect to service performed, on or after the date this section becomesapplicableinthecountyordistrict.

(2)Onthedatethissectionbecomesapplicableinthecountyordistrict,thoseofficersandemployeesspecifiedintheresolutiondescribedinsubdivision(a)andthen-subjecttoTierTwoshallthereafterbecoveredbyTierThree,asdescribedinSection31755,forserviceperformedonandafterthatdate.

(c) This section may not apply to an employee for any service performed while he or she isasafetymemberunderthischapterorissubjecttoTierOne,asdescribedinSection31755.

(d)ThebenefitformulasetforthinSection31752shallapplytotheTierTwoservicewithwhichamemberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement.

(e)Ifthecountyadoptsaresolutionpursuanttosubdivision(a),thissectionshallapplyequallytoanynonrepresentedemployeesinsimilarjobclassificationsasemployeeswithinapplicablebargainingunitsandtothesupervisorsandmanagersofthoseemployees.


§31755.2. Applicability of benefit formula to Tier Three officers and employees of Contra Costa County (Contra Costa)Notwithstanding any other provision of law:(a)(1)TheBoardofSupervisorsofContraCostaCountymay,pursuanttoa

memorandumofunderstandinginaccordancewiththeMeyers-Milias-BrownAct(Chapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1),adoptaresolutionmakingthissectionapplicabletotheofficersandemployeesofthecountyspecifiedintheresolutionandspecifyingthefutureoperativedateofitsapplication.


(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,thebenefitformulasetforthinSection31676.16shallapplytotheTierThreeservicewithwhichamember,whoretiresonorafterthedatethissectionbecomesapplicableinthecountyordistrict,isentitledtobecreditedandforwhichthememberhaspaidTierThreemembercontributions.

(c)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,Section31676.16doesnotapplytoanyperiodsofserviceperformedasTierTwoserviceunderSection31751,excepttotheextentthatTierThreeservicecreditispurchasedbyoronbehalfofthememberforthoseperiods.

(d)Ifthecountyadoptsaresolutionpursuanttosubdivision(a),thissectionshallapplyequallytoanynonrepresentedemployeesinsimilarjobclassificationsasemployeeswithinapplicablebargainingunitsandtothesupervisorsandmanagersofthoseemployees.


Article10,§31755.1.-§31755.2.275

§31755.3. Applicability of benefit formula to Tier One officers and employees of Contra Costa County (Contra Costa)Notwithstanding any other provision of law:(a)(1)TheBoardofSupervisorsofContraCostaCountymay,pursuanttoa

memorandumofunderstandinginaccordancewiththeMeyers-Milias-BrownAct(Chapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1),adoptaresolutionmakingthissectionapplicabletotheofficersandemployeesofthecountyspecifiedintheresolutionandspecifyingthefutureoperativedateofitsapplication.


(b)ThebenefitformulasetforthinSection31676.16shallapplytotheTierOneservicewithwhichamemberisentitledtobecreditedatretirement.Asusedinthissection,“TierOne”shallhavethemeaningsetforthinSection31755.

(c)Ifthecountyadoptsaresolutionpursuanttosubdivision(a),thissectionshallapplyequallytoanynonrepresentedemployeesinsimilarjobclassificationsasemployeeswithinapplicablebargainingunitsandtothesupervisorsandmanagersofthoseemployees.


Article 11Optional Retirement Allowances


§31760. Election of actuarial equivalent of retirement allowanceUntilthefirstpaymentofanyretirementallowanceismade,amemberorretired

member,inlieuoftheretirementallowanceforhislifealone,mayelecttohavetheactuarialequivalentofhisretirementallowanceasofthedateofretirementappliedtoalesserretirementallowancepayablethroughoutlifeinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle.


§31760.1. Continuance of allowance to family of deceased member; minor children; designated beneficiaryUponthedeathofanymemberafterretirementforserviceornonservice-connected

disabilityfromaretirementsystemestablishedinacountysubjecttotheprovisionsofSection31676.1,60percentofhisorherretirementallowance,ifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle,shallbecontinuedthroughoutlifetohisorhersurvivingspouse.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtoanallowancehereunderorifsheorhediesbeforeeverynaturaloradoptedchildofthedeceasedmemberattainstheageof18years,thentheallowancewhichthesurvivingspousewouldhavereceivedhadsheorhelived,shallbepaidtohisorhernaturaloradoptedchildorchildrenunderthatagecollectively,tocontinueuntileverychilddiesorattainsthatage;provided,thatnochildshallreceiveanyallowanceaftermarryingorattainingtheageof18years.Noallowance,however,shallbepaidunderthissectiontoasurvivingspouseunlesssheorhewasmarriedtothememberatleastoneyearpriortothedateofhisorherretirement.Therightofachildorchildrenof

Article10,§31755.3.-Article11,§31760.1. 276

adeceasedmembertoreceiveanallowanceunderthissection,intheabsenceofaneligiblesurvivingspouse,shallnotbedependentonwhetherthechildorchildrenwerenominatedbythedeceasedmemberasthebeneficiaryofanybenefitspayableuponorbyreasonofthemember’sdeath,andshallbesuperiortoandshallsupersedetherightsandclaimsofanyotherbeneficiarysonominated.

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthemembershallbepaidtothosechildrenthroughtheageof21ifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

Ifatthedeathofanyretiredmemberthereisnosurvivingspouseorminorchildreneligibleforthe60-percentcontinuanceprovidedinthissection,andthetotalretirementallowanceincomereceivedbyhimorherduringhisorherlifetimedidnotequalorexceedhisorheraccumulatednormalcontributions,hisorherdesignatedbeneficiaryshallbepaidanamountequaltotheexcessofhisorheraccumulatednormalcontributionsoverhisorhertotalretirementallowanceincome.

ThesupersedingrightspursuanttothissectionshallnotaffectbenefitspayabletoanamedbeneficiaryasprovidedunderSection31789,31789.01,31789.1,31789.12,31789.13,31789.2,31789.3,31789.5,or31790.


§31760.11. Contra Costa County; continuance of allowance to family of deceased member; minor children; designated beneficiary (Contra Costa)NotwithstandingSection31760.1,uponthedeathafterretirementofanymember

coveredunderSection31751,60percentofthemember’sretirementallowance,ifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle,shallbecontinuedthroughoutlifetothemember’sspouseifthespouseisdesignatedasthebeneficiary.Noallowance,however,shallbepaidunderthissectiontoasurvivingspouseunlesssheorhewasmarriedtothememberatleastoneyearpriortothedateofthemember’sretirement.

Ifthereisaneligiblespouse,inadditiontotheabove,20percentofthemember’sunmodifiedretirementallowanceshallbepaidtoeachofthemember’schildren.Themaximumfamilybenefitunderthissectionshallbe100percentofthemember’sretirementallowance.

If,onthedeathafterretirementofanymembercoveredunderSection31751,thereisnospouseeligibleforthe60percentcontinuancebutthereisatleastoneeligiblechild,oriftherewasaneligiblespouseandthespousedieswhilethereisatleastoneeligiblechild,thechild,orchildrencollectively,shallbeentitledtothe60percentcontinuanceofthemember’sunmodifiedallowance.

Asusedinthissection,“child”meansamember’schildwhoisdependentuponsuchmemberatthetimeofhisorherretirementandwhilesuchchildisunmarriedand:

(a)Under18yearsofage,or(b)Whetherorover18yearsofage,totallydisabledandsuchdisabilityoccurredprior

tosuchchildattainingtheageof18years,or(c)Eighteenyearsofageorover,buthasnotattainedtheageof22years,andisenrolled

asafull-timestudentinanaccreditedschool,asdeterminedbytheboard.If,atthedeathofanyretiredmember,thereisnosurvivingspouseorchildreneligible

for the continuance of the allowance provided in this section, and the total retirement allowanceincomereceivedbythememberduringthemember’slifetimedidnotexceedthemember’saccumulatednormalcontributionsandcost-of-livingcontributions,themember’s

Article11,§31760.1.-§31760.11.277

designatedbeneficiaryshallbepaidanamountequaltotheexcessofsuchcontributionsatretirementdateoverthetotalamountoftheretirementallowanceincomereceivedbythemember.


§31760.12. Survivor allowance paid pursuant to Section 31760.1 on account of member who retires on or after operative date of section; amount equal to 65 percent of member’s monthly retirement allowance; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)NotwithstandingSection31760.1,eachsurvivorallowancepaidpursuanttoSection

31760.1onaccountofamemberwhoretiresonoraftertheoperativedateofthissectionshallbeequalto65percentofthemember’smonthlyretirementallowance,ifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle.

ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoLosAngelesCountyandshallnotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyelects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.


§31760.13. Amount of survivor allowance paid on or after operative date of this section pursuant to Section 31760.1 on account of member who retires before operative date of this section; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)NotwithstandingSection31760.1,eachsurvivorallowancepaidonorafterthe

operativedateofthissectionpursuanttoSection31760.1onaccountofamemberwhoretiresbeforetheoperativedateofthissectionshallbeequalto65percentofthemember’smonthlyretirementallowance,ifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle,asadjustedforthenetcost-of-livingpercentageincrease,ifany,awardedtothatsurvivorpriortotheoperativedateofthissection.


(AddedbyStats.2001,Ch.778(AB399),Sec.10,EffectiveOctober13,2001,asanurgency statute)

§31760.2. Continuance of retirement allowance to surviving spouse or children of deceased member; conditions(a)NotwithstandingSection31481or31760.1,uponthedeathofanymemberafter

retirementforserviceornonservice-connecteddisabilityfromaretirementsystemestablishedinacountypursuanttothischapter,60percentofhisorherretirementallowance,ifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle,shallbecontinuedtohisorhersurvivingspouseforlife.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtoanallowanceunderthissectionorifsheorhediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedmemberattainstheageof18years,thentheallowancethatthesurvivingspousewouldhavereceivedhadheorshelived,shallbepaidtohisorherchildorchildrenunderthatagecollectively,tocontinueuntileachchilddiesorattainsthatage.However,nochildmayreceiveanyallowanceaftermarryingorattainingtheageof18years.

(b)Noallowancemaybepaidunderthissectiontoasurvivingspouseunlessheorshewasmarriedtothememberatleasttwoyearspriortothedateofdeathandhasattainedtheageof55yearsonorpriortothedateofdeath.

Article11,§31760.11.-§31760.2. 278

(c)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthemembershallbepaidtothechildrenthroughtheageof21yearsifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschool,asdeterminedbytheboard.

(d)Ifatthedeathofanyretiredmemberthereisnosurvivingspouseorminorchildreneligibleforthe60-percentcontinuanceprovidedinthissectionandthetotalretirementallowanceincomereceivedbytheretiredmemberduringhisorherlifetimedidnotequalorexceedhisorheraccumulatednormalcontributions,theretiredmember’sdesignatedbeneficiaryshallbepaidanamountequaltotheexcessofhisorheraccumulatednormalcontributionsoverhisorhertotalretirementallowanceincome.

(e)NoallowancemaybepaidpursuanttothissectiontoanypersonwhoisentitledtoanallowancepursuanttoSection31760.1.

(f)ThesupersedingrightspursuanttothissectiondonotaffectbenefitspayabletoanamedbeneficiaryasprovidedunderSection31789,31789.01,31789.1,31789.12,31789.13,31789.2,31789.3,31789.5,or31790.

(g)Thissectionisnotapplicableinanycountyuntiltheboardofretirement,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.Theboard’sresolutionmaydesignateadate,whichmaybepriororsubsequenttothedateoftheresolution,asofwhichtheresolutionandthissectionshallbeoperativeinthecounty.

(AddedbyStats.1986,Ch.849,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.1999,Ch.161(SB670),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2002,Ch.875(AB2060),Sec.1)

§31760.3. Notice to spouse of member’s selection of benefits or change of beneficiary; spouse’s applications for refund, etc.; exceptions; adoption by countyThesolepurposeofthissectionistonotifythecurrentspouseoftheselectionofbenefits

orchangeofbeneficiarymadebyamember.Nothinginthissectionisintendedtoconflictwithcommunitypropertylaw.Anapplicationforarefundofthemember’saccumulatedcontributions,anelectionofoptionalsettlement,orachangeinbeneficiarydesignationshallcontainthesignatureofthecurrentspouseofthemember,unlessthememberdeclares,inwritingunderpenaltyofperjury,anyofthefollowing:

(a)Thememberisnotmarried.(b)Thecurrentspousehasnoidentifiablecommunitypropertyinterestinthebenefit.(c)Thememberdoesnotknow,andhastakenallreasonablestepstodetermine,the

whereaboutsofthecurrentspouse.(d)Thecurrentspousehasbeenadvisedoftheapplicationandhasrefusedtosignthe

writtenacknowledgment.(e)Thecurrentspouseisincapableofexecutingtheacknowledgmentbecauseof

incapacitatingmentalorphysicalcondition.(f)Thememberandthecurrentspousehaveexecutedamarriagesettlementagreement

pursuanttoPart5(commencingwithSection1500)ofDivision4ofthefamilyCodewhichmakesthecommunitypropertylawinapplicabletothemarriage.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,makethissectionapplicableinthecounty.

(AmendedbyStats.1992,Ch.163,Sec.87,EffectiveJanuary1,1993.OperativeJanuary1,1994,bySec.161ofCh.163)

Article11,§31760.2.-§31760.3.279

§31760.5. (Operative date contingent) Election of lesser pension amount and increased survivor allowance; Applicability(a)NotwithstandingSection31760andinlieuoftheretirementallowanceandthe

continuingorsurvivorallowance,ifany,otherwisepayabletoaretiredmemberandhisorhersurvivingspousepursuanttothisarticle,amembermayelectinwritingtohavetheactuarialequivalentofthesebenefits,asofthedateofretirement,appliedtoalesseramountpayablethroughouttheretiredmember’slife,andtoanincreasedsurvivorallowanceasapprovedbytheboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,that,uponthedeathoftheretiredmember,shallbecontinuedthroughoutthelifeofandpaidtohisorhersurvivingspouse.Toqualifyforbenefitsunderthissection,thesurvivingspousemustbemarriedtothememberatleastoneyearpriortothedateofretirement.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtothisallowance,orifthesurvivingspousediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedretiredmember,includingeverystepchildandadoptedchild,attainstheageof18years,thentheincreasedsurvivorallowancethatthespousewouldhavereceivedhadheorshesurvivedshallbepaidtothedeceasedretiredmember’schildorchildrenundertheageof18years.Iftheincreasedsurvivorallowanceistobepaidtosurvivingchildren,itshallbedividedamongthechildreninequalshares.However,therightofanychildtoshareintheallowanceshallceaseuponhisorherdeath,marriage,orattainingtheageof18years.

(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,theallowanceotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthedeceasedretiredmembershallbepaidthroughtheageof21yearsifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanyaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(c)Theelectionunderthissectionmaynot,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,placeanyadditionalburdenupontheretirementsystem.Ifamemberelectstobesubjecttothissection,theretirementallowancethatwouldotherwisebepayabletothemembershallbereducedbytheadditionalcosttothesystemresultingfromtheincreasedsurvivorallowance.Theactuarialcostofthesurvivorallowancepayableunderthissectionshallbecalculatedtakingintoaccountthelifeexpectancyofthemember’ssurvivingspouse.

(d)ThissectionisonlyapplicabletoLosAngelesCountyandisnotoperativeunlessanduntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthecountyelects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.Thissectionappliesonlytothosememberswhoretireaftertheoperativedateofthissection.


§31760.7. Retired member entitled to elect or change optional retirement allowance if specified criteria met(a)Aretiredmember,inordertoprovideforhisorherdomesticpartner,shallbe

entitled to elect or change any optional retirement allowance pursuant to this article, if all of the followingcriteriaaresatisfied:

(1)ThememberretiredonorbeforeJanuary1,2006.(2)Atretirement,thememberelectedanunmodifiedretirementallowanceorone

oftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticlenaminghisorherdomesticpartnerasbeneficiary.

(3)Atthetimeofelectionunderthissection,theretiredmemberanddomesticpartnerareregisteredasdomesticpartnerswiththeSecretaryofState,andprovideacopyoftheirCertificateofRegisteredDomesticPartnershiptotheretirementsystem.

(4)Theretiredmemberanddomesticpartnersignanaffidavitunderpenaltyofperjurystatingthatatleastoneyearpriortothemember’sserviceretirementeffectivedateoratthedisabilityretirementdatethememberandpartnerwouldhavequalifiedtoberegistered

Article11,§31760.5.-§31760.7. 280

asdomesticpartnerspursuanttoSection297oftheFamilyCode.(b)Theretirementsystemhasnoobligationtolocateorotherwisecontactretired

memberswhomayqualifyforallowancesunderthetermsofthissection.(c)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,ifaretiredmemberelectsto

changehisorherretirementelectionpursuanttothissection,themember’sallowanceshallbeadjustedprospectivelyonly.Theadjustedretirementallowanceshallbeeffectiveonthefirstdayofthemonthfollowingreceiptofthemember’ssignedelection.Themembershallnotbeeligibletorecoverpaymentretroactivelyforanyperiodbetweenhisorherretirementeffectivedateandthedateofelectionunderthissection.

(d)Thissectiondoesnotapplytomemberswhoarerequiredtoprovideacontinuingbenefittoaformerspousepursuanttocourtorder.

(e)TherightofamembertomakeanelectionpursuanttothissectionshallexpireonJanuary1,2007.


§31761. Optional settlement 1Optionalsettlement1consistsoftherighttoelectinwritingtohavearetirement

allowancepaidhimorheruntilhisorherdeathand,ifheorshediesbeforeheorshereceivesinannuitypaymentstheamountofhisorheraccumulatedcontributionsatretirement,tohavethebalanceatdeathpaidtohisorherestateortotheperson,havinganinsurableinterestinhisorherlife,asheorshenominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard.



allowance paid to him or her until his or her death, and thereafter to the person, having an insurableinterestinhisorherlife,asheorshenominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboardatthetimeofhisorherretirement.



allowancepaidhimorheruntilhisorherdeath,andthereaftertohaveone-halfofhisorherretirementallowancepaidtotheperson,havinganinsurableinterestinhisorherlife,asheorshenominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboardatthetimeofhisorherretirement.



allowancepaidhimorheruntilhisorherdeathandthereaftertohaveotherbenefitsasareapprovedbytheboard,upontheadviceoftheactuary,continuedthroughoutthelifeofandpaidtothepersons,havinganinsurableinterestinhisorherlife,asheorshenominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboardatthetimeofhisorherretirement.Thedesignationshallnot,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,placeanyadditionalburdenupontheretirementsystem.


Article11,§31760.7.-§31764.281

§31764.5. (Operative date contingent) Adjustment after election to reduce allowance with optional settlement(a)Atretirement,amemberwhoelectsanoptionalsettlementpursuanttoSection

31762,31763,or31764mayelecttoreducehisorherallowancetoprovidethatifthenamedbeneficiarypredeceasesthemember,themember’sallowanceshallbeadjustedtotheamountheorshewouldhavebeenentitledtoreceiveatretirementifhisorherbenefithadnotbeenmodifiedbyanoptionalsettlement,adjustedbyanycost-of-livingincreasesthatwouldhavebeenaddedtothemonthlyallowance.Theadjustedallowanceshallbeeffectiveonthefirstdayofthemonthfollowingthemonthinwhichnotificationofthebeneficiary’sdeathisreceivedbytheboard.

(b)Thissectionmaynotbecomeoperativeif,intheopinionoftheretirementboardandtheactuary,theallowancespayableunderthissectionwouldplaceanadditionalfinancialburdenontheretirementsystem.

(c)Thissectionmaynotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorselects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.


§31764.6. (Operative date contingent) Right to elect reduction and designate spouse for surviving allowance(a)NotwithstandingSections31481and31760,optionalsettlement5consistsofaretired

member’srighttoelectinwritingtohavehisorherretirementallowancereducedandtodesignatehisorherspousewhoisnototherwiseeligibletoreceiveasurvivorallowance.Thesurvivorallowanceshallbedeterminedonanactuarialbasisbythereductioninthemember’sallowanceandmaynot,intheopinionoftheboardandtheactuary,placeanyadditionalfinancialburdenontheretirementsystem.

(b)AmemberwhoelectedtoreceiveanoptionalsettlementunderSection31762,31763,or31764,involvingalifecontingencyofabeneficiary,mayelectoptionalsettlement5ifthebeneficiarypredeceasesthememberor,ifaformerspousewasnamed,intheeventofadissolutionorannulmentofthemarriageoralegalseparationinwhichthejudgmentdividingthe community property awards the total interest in the retirement system to the retired member.

(c)Amemberwhomarriedatleast12monthspriortothedatethissectionbecomesoperativemayfileanelectionwiththeboardofretirementwithin60daysaftertheoperativedate.Theelectionshallbecomeeffectivethefirstdayofthemonthfollowingreceiptoftheelectionbytheboard.Amemberwhofailstoelectwithinthat60-dayperiodshallretaintherighttomakeanelectionunderthissectionsubjecttothewaitingperiodprovidedinsubdivision(d).

(d)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(c),theelectionunderthissectionshallbecomeeffective12monthsafterthedateitisfiledwiththeboard,providedthatneitherthemembernorhisorherspousediespriortotheeffectivedateoftheelection.

(e)Anelectionunderthissectionisirrevocable.(f)Thissectionmaynotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorselects,by

resolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.(AddedbyStats.2004,Ch.441(AB979),Sec.5)

§31764.7. (Operative date contingent) Adjustment if spouse predeceases member after electing reduction to provide spousal benefit(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,ifaretiredmemberelectsto

havehisorherretirementallowancereducedpursuanttoSection31764.6andif,thereafter,the

Article11,§31764.5.-§31764.7. 282

member’sspousepredeceasesthemember,themember’sallowanceshallbeadjustedtotheamountheorshereceivedatretirement,adjustedbyanycost-of-livingincreasesthatwereorwouldhavebeenaddedtothemonthlyallowance.Theadjustedallowanceshallbeeffectiveonthefirstdayofthemonthfollowingthemonthinwhichnotificationofthespouse’sorbeneficiary’sdeathisreceivedbytheboard.

(b)Thissectionmaynotbecomeoperativeif,intheopinionoftheretirementboardandtheactuary,theallowancespayableunderthissectionwouldplaceanadditionalfinancialburdenontheretirementsystem.

(c)Thissectionmaynotbecomeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorselects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.


§31765. Election of retirement allowance by surviving spouse of member eligible to retire; rights of surviving children; minor childrenUponthedeathofamemberwhowaseligibletoretire,incircumstancesinwhicha

deathbenefitispayableunderArticle12,ifthedeceasedmemberhasdesignatedasbeneficiaryhisspousewhosurviveshimbynotlessthan30days,suchsurvivingspousemayelect,atanytimebeforeacceptanceofanybenefitsfromtheretirementsystem,toreceive,inlieuofthedeathbenefitotherwisepayableunderArticle12,thesameretirementallowanceasthattowhichsuchspousewouldhavebeenentitledhadsuchmemberretiredonthedateofhisdeathandselectedOptionalSettlement3.Suchsurvivingspousemayelectinwriting,beforethefirstpayment of any allowance is made, to receive in a lump sum payment all or any part of the member’saccumulatedadditionalcontributions.Thesumsopaidshallnotbeincludedinthecalculationoftheannuityofthesurvivingspouse.

If,atthedeathofsuchspouse,sheorheissurvivedbyoneormoreunmarriedchildrenofsuchmember,undertheageof18,suchretirementallowanceshallcontinuetosuchchildorchildren,collectively,untileverychilddies,marries,orattainsage18.Ifsuchspousedies,eitherbeforeorafterthedeathofsuchmemberwithouteithermakingsuchelectionofreceivinganyportionofthedeathbenefit,andnopartofthedeathbenefithasbeenpaidtoanyperson,priortothepaymentofanybenefits,thelegallyappointedguardianofsuchchildrenshallmaketheelectionhereinprovidedforonbehalfofsuchsurvivingchildrenasinhisjudgmentmayappeartobeintheirinterestandadvantageandtheelectionsomadeshallbebindingandconclusiveuponallpartiesininterest.

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthemembershallbepaidtosuchchildrenthroughtheageof21ifsuchchildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.


§31765.1. Election of retirement allowance by surviving spouse of member of system in certain counties; rights of surviving children; minor childrenUponthedeathofanymemberofaretirementsystemestablishedinacountysubjectto

theprovisionsofSection31676.1orSection31695.1,eligibleforretirementpursuanttoArticle7.5,8,or8.7wholeavesaspousedesignatedasbeneficiary,suchsurvivingspousemay,inlieuofthedeathbenefitprovidedforinArticle12,electtoreceivearetirementallowanceequalto60percentoftheamounttowhichthememberwouldhavebeenentitledhadthememberretiredonthedateofhisdeathwitharetirementallowancenotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinArticle11.Suchsurvivingspousemayelectinwriting,beforethefirstpaymentofallowanceismade,toreceiveinalumpsumpaymentallor

Article11,§31764.7.-§31765.1.283

anypartofthemember’saccumulatedadditionalcontributions.Thesumsopaidshallnotbeincludedinthecalculationsoftheannuityofthesurvivingspouse.

If,atthedeathofsuchspouse,sheorheissurvivedbyoneormoreunmarriedchildrenofsuchmember,undertheageof18,suchretirementallowanceshallcontinuetosuchchildorchildren,collectively,untileverychilddies,marries,orattainsage18.Ifsuchspousedies,eitherbeforeorafterthedeathofsuchmemberwithouteithermakingsuchelectionorreceivinganyportionofthedeathbenefit,andnopartofthedeathbenefithasbeenpaidtoanyperson,priortothepaymentofanybenefits,thelegallyappointedguardianofsuchchildrenshallmaketheelectionhereinprovidedforonbehalfofsuchsurvivingchildrenasinhisjudgmentmayappeartobeintheirinterestandadvantageandtheelectionsomadeshallbebindingandconclusiveuponallpartiesininterest.

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthemembershallbepaidtosuchchildrenthroughtheageof21ifsuchchildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.


§31765.11. Contra Costa County; election of retirement allowance by spouse; rights of children (Contra Costa)NotwithstandingSections31765and31765.1,uponthedeathofanymembercovered

underSection31751whowaseithereligibleforretirementorwouldhavebeenentitledtodisabilityretirementbutdiedpriortosuchretirementandwholeavesaspouse,suchsurvivingspousemay,inlieuofthedeathbenefitprovidedforinArticle12(commencingwithSection31780),electtoreceivearetirementallowanceequalto60percentoftheamounttowhichthememberwouldhavebeenentitledhadthememberretiredonthedateofdeathwitharetirementallowancenotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle.

Ifthereisaneligiblespouse,inadditiontotheabove,20percentoftheallowancetowhichthememberwouldhavebeenentitledshallbepaidtoeachofthemember’schildren.Themaximumfamilybenefitunderthissectionshallbe100percentoftheamounttowhichthememberwouldhavebeenentitledhadthememberretiredonthedateofdeathwitharetirementallowancenotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle.

Ifthereisnospouseeligibleforthe60percentallowance,butthereisatleastoneeligiblechild,orifthespouseofthememberdieseitherbeforeorafterthedeathofsuchmemberwithouteithermakingsuchelectionorreceivinganyportionofthedeathbenefit,andnopartofthedeathbenefithasbeenpaidtoanyperson,priortothepaymentofanybenefits,thelegallyappointedguardianofsuchchildorchildrenshallmaketheelectionhereinprovidedforonbehalfofsuchsurvivingchildorchildrenastheguardian’sjudgmentmayappearintheirinterestandadvantageandtheelectionsomadeshallbebindingandconclusiveuponallpartiesininterest.Ifanelectionismadetoreceivethe60percentallowance,thechild,orchildrencollectively,shallbeentitledto60percentoftheretirementallowancethememberwouldhavereceived.

Asusedinthissection,“child”shallbeasdefinedinSection31760.11.The provisions of this section also shall apply to the surviving spouse and children of

anyemployeewhodiesastheresultofinjuryordiseasearisingoutofandinthecourseofemploymentpriortothefirstdayofthecalendarmonthwhentheemployeenormallywouldbecomeamember.

Therightsandprivilegesconferredbythissectionuponthesurvivingspouseand

Article11,§31765.1.-§31765.11. 284

childrenofsuchdeceasedmemberoremployeeshallnotbedependentuponwhetherthey,oranyofthem,havebeennominatedbythedeceasedmemberoremployeeasthebeneficiaryofanybenefitspayableuponorbyreasonofdeath,buttheyshallbesuperiorto,andshallsupersede,therightsandclaimsofanyotherbeneficiarysonominated.


§31765.2. Amount of each survivor allowance paid pursuant to Section 31765.1 on account of member who dies on or after operative date of this section; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)NotwithstandingSection31765.1,eachsurvivorallowancepaidpursuanttoSection

31765.1onaccountofamemberwhodiesonoraftertheoperativedateofthissectionshallbeequalto65percentofthemonthlyretirementallowancetowhichthedeceasedmemberwouldhavebeenentitledifheorshehadretiredonthedateofdeathwitharetirementallowancenotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle.



§31765.3. Amount of survivor allowance paid on or after operative date of this section pursuant to Section 31765.1 on account of member who dies before operative date of this section; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)NotwithstandingSection31765.1,eachsurvivorallowancepaidonorafterthe

operativedateofthissectionpursuanttoSection31765.1onaccountofamemberwhodiesbeforetheoperativedateofthissectionshallbeequalto65percentofthemonthlyretirementallowancetowhichthedeceasedmemberwouldhavebeenentitledifheorshehadretiredonthedateofdeathwitharetirementallowancenotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle,asadjustedforthenetcost-of-livingpercentageincrease,ifany,awardedtothatsurvivorpriortotheoperativedateofthissection.



§31768. Increase of amounts payable under Sections 31760.1, 31760.2, and 31765.1; authority of board; application to counties of the first class (Los Angeles)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischaptertothecontrary,theboardmay,by

aresolutionadopted,pursuanttoboththissectionandSection31792,byamajorityvoteandwithrespectonlytopersonswhofirstbecomemembersonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheresolution,electtoincrease,by33percent,theamountspayablepursuanttoanyoneormoreofSections31760.1,31760.2,and31765.1.

Thissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.


Article11,§31765.11.-§31768.285

Article 11.5Deferred Retirement Option Program


§31770. Short titleThisarticleshallbeknownandmaybecitedasthe“DeferredRetirementOption

Program.”(AddedbyStats.2003,Ch.897(SB274),Sec.1)

§31770.1. Creation of program; conformance with federal law; severability(a)TheDeferredRetirementOptionProgramisherebycreatedtoprovideeligible

memberswhoelecttoparticipateintheprogramaccesstoalumpsum,orinsomecases,additionalmonthlypaymentsforaspecifiedperiodinadditiontoamonthlyretirementallowance.

(b)ThedesignandadministrationoftheDeferredRetirementOptionProgramshallconformtotheapplicableprovisionsofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCodeandtheRevenueandTaxationCode.

(c)Ifanyprovisionofthisarticleorapplicationthereoftoanypersonorcircumstanceis held invalid, that invalidity will not affect other provisions or applications of this article that canbegiveneffectwithouttheinvalidprovisionsorapplication,andtothisendtheprovisionsofthisarticleareseverable.


§31770.2. DefinitionsUnlessthecontextotherwiserequires,thedefinitionscontainedinthissectiongovern

the construction of this article:(a)“DROP”or“program”meanstheDeferredRetirementOptionProgramestablished

bythisarticle,asadoptedbyacountyordistrict.(b)“Electiondate”meansthedatethememberelectstoparticipateintheprogram.(c)“Deferredretirementcalculationdate”meansthedatepriortothemember’sactual

retirementdate,asofwhichbenefitsundertheprogramshallbecalculatedasprovidedinSection31778.1.

(d)“Implementingordinance”meanstheordinanceorresolutionadoptedbythecountyboardofsupervisorsorgoverningboardofthedistrict,pursuanttoSection31770.3,providingfortheimplementationoftheprograminthecountyordistrictandspecifyingtheapplicableprogramoptionsasprovidedinthisarticle.

(e)“Participant”meansanyeligiblesafetymemberofthesystemdescribedinSection31469.4,31470.2,or31470.4whohasvalidlyelectedtoparticipateintheprogram.

(f)“Programaccount”meanstheaccountestablishedbythesystemforeachparticipantoftheprogrampursuanttoSection31772.

(g)“Programperiod”meanstheperiodoftimecommencingontheelectiondateandendingonthemember’sretirementdate,whichperiodmaynotexceed60monthsofelapsedtime.

(h)“Retirementdate”meansthedatethememberterminatesemploymentandretiresfromthesystem.


§31770.3. Implementing ordinance required(a)Thisarticle,orselectedprovisionsofthisarticle,shallbecomeeffectiveinanycounty

Article11.5,§31770.-§31770.3. 286

ordistrictonlywhenthecountyboardofsupervisorsorgoverningboardofthedistrictadoptsanordinanceorresolutionprovidingforthatimplementation.Theboardofsupervisorsorgoverningboardmaynotadoptthatordinanceorresolution,andthisarticle,orselectedportionsofthisarticle,maynotbecomeeffectiveinthecountyordistrictunlessanduntiltheactuarialanalysisdescribedinSection31770.4hasbeencompletedandhasdeterminedthattheprogram,asproposedtobeadoptedbythecountyordistrict,willbecostneutralandagreedtoinacollectivebargainingagreement.

(b)Basedontheactuarialanalysis,therequirementofcostneutrality,andthecollectivebargainingagreement,thecountyordistrictshall,intheimplementingordinance,electoneofthefollowingforeachbargainingunitotherthanabargainingunitwhosemembersaredescribedinSection31470.4:

(1)Tobesubjecttotheprovisionsofthisarticle,includingtheforwardDROPprovisionscontainedinSections31771to31776.5,inclusive,butexcludingtheactuarialequivalentDROPprovisionscontainedinSection31777andexcludingthebackwardDROPprovisionscontainedinSections31778to31778.2,inclusive.

(2)Tobesubjecttotheprovisionsofthisarticle,includingtheactuarialequivalentDROPprovisionscontainedinSection31777,butexcludingtheforwardDROPprovisionscontainedinSections31771to31776.5,inclusive,andexcludingthebackwardDROPprovisionscontainedinSections31778to31778.2,inclusive.

(3)Tobesubjecttotheprovisionsofthisarticle,includingthebackwardDROPoptionscontainedinSections31778to31778.2,inclusive,butexcludingtheforwardDROPprovisionscontainedinSections31771to31776.5,inclusive,andexcludingtheactuarialequivalentDROPprovisionscontainedinSection31777.

(c)WithrespecttoabargainingunitwhosemembersaredescribedinSection31470.4,thecountyordistrictmay,intheimplementingordinance,besubjectonlytotheprovisionsofthisarticleasprovidedinparagraph(3)ofsubdivision(b).

(d)Theprogramshallbecomeoperativewithrespecttoallsafetymembersofthesystemonthedatespecifiedintheimplementingordinance.

(e)Theimplementingordinanceshallspecifyaperiodoftime,whichshallbeatleastfouryearsandnotmorethan10yearsfromthedateofimplementation,afterwhichaninitialreviewoftheprogramshallbeconductedpursuanttoSection31779.


§31770.4. Actuarial analysis of cost neutrality(a)Theboardshall,upontherequestof,andbeforeadoptionof,theimplementing

ordinancebythecountyboardofsupervisorsorgoverningboardofthedistrict,causeanactuarialanalysistobeconductedtodeterminewhethertheprogram,asproposedtobeadopted,willbecostneutral.Aproposedprogramshallbedeemedtobecostneutralif,basedontheapplicableactuarialassumptions,itwillnothaveasignificantnegativefinancialimpactonthemembers,employer,ortheretirementsystem,asspecifiedinsubdivision(b).

(b)Theactuarialanalysisshalltakeintoaccounttheimpactoftheproposedprogramonspecificmeasures,including,butnotlimitedto,employercontributions,thesystem’sactuarialaccruedliability,andthepresentvalueofbenefits.Aproposedprogramwillnotbedeemedtobecostneutralifthereisanyanticipatedincreaseinanyofthesemeasuresattributabletotheimplementationoftheprogramorifthereisadecreaseinthepresentvalueofbenefitsofmorethan3percentattributabletotheimplementationoftheprogram.

(c) The actuarial analysis shall identify all cost elements expected to change due to the implementationoftheprogramandshallincludetheimpactofthosechanges.Thesemayinclude,butarenotlimitedto,costelementssuchasbenefitpayments,expectedretirementage,andthelikelihoodofterminationordisabilitybythosenearretirementage.Theanalysis

Article11.5,§31770.3.-§31770.4.287

maynottakeintoaccountitemsunrelatedtotheproposedprograms,includingtheinvestmentreturnonfundassetsorthelifeexpectancyofcurrentlyretiredmembers.

(d)Asusedinthissection:(1)“Actuarialaccruedliability”meanstheportionofthepresentvalueofbenefits

attributabletoservicebeforethevaluationdate.(2)“Presentvalueofbenefits”meansthevalue,asofthevaluationdate,ofallbenefits

expectedtobepaidtocurrentmembersofthesystem.(AddedbyStats.2003,Ch.897(SB274),Sec.1)

§31770.5. Implementing ordinance; establishment of eligibility requirements(a)Theimplementingordinanceshallestablishtheeligibilityrequirementsfor

participationintheprogram,subjecttothissectionandthecollectivebargainingagreement.The ordinance shall specify the minimum age and the minimum and maximum, if any, years ofservicecreditrequiredtobeeligibletoparticipateintheprogram,whichminimumandmaximum,ifany,maynotbelessthantheminimumageandservicecreditrequirementsforserviceretirement.

(b)Membersshallbeeligibletoelecttoparticipateintheprogramatanytimeaftertheattainmentoftheminimumageandyearsofcreditedserviceinthesystemspecifiedintheimplementingordinance.Memberswhosatisfytheeligibilityrequirementsontheimplementationdateoftheprogram,assetforthintheimplementingordinance,shallbeeligibletoelecttoparticipateintheprogramasoftheoperativedateoftheprogram.

(c)PriorservicepurchasedpursuanttothischapterandserviceperformedbythememberunderanotherpublicretirementsystemshallbeincludedforpurposesofdeterminingeligibilityfortheprogramtotheextentprovidedinSection31836.

(d)MemberswhohaveleftcountyordistrictserviceandwhohaveelecteddeferredretirementpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700)willnotbeeligibletoparticipateintheforwardDROPprovisionsunlesstheyreturntocountyserviceduringtheoperativeperiodoftheprogram.


§31770.6. Establishment of procedures; providing written information to members(a)Uponadoptionoftheimplementingordinance,theretirementsystemshallestablish

proceduresfornotifyingmembersoftheirrightsundertheprogram.(b)Eachmember,beforeelectingtoparticipateintheprogram,shallbegivenwritten

informationregardinghowbenefitsundertheprogramwouldbecalculatedandacomparisonofthemember’santicipatedbenefitsatretirementwithandwithoutparticipationintheprogram.Allmemberswillbeadvisedtoseekadvicefromprofessionaltaxandinvestmentadvisorsbeforeelectingtoparticipateintheprogram.


§31770.7. Right to benefits exempt from executionTherightofaparticipanttobenefitsundertheprogramisnotsubjecttoexecution

oranyotherprocess,excepttotheextentpermittedbySection704.110oftheCodeofCivilProcedure,andisunassignableexceptasspecificallyprovidedunderthischapter.


§31770.8. Rights of participants subject to laws or court orders relating to dissolution of marriage, child support, etc.Therightsofaparticipantorhisorherspouseundertheprogramshallbesubjectto

Article11.5,§31770.4.-§31770.8. 288

anyapplicableprovisionsoflaworcourtordersrelatingtodissolutionofmarriage,divisionofcommunityproperty,andchildorspousalsupport.


§31771. Forward DROP provisionsTheprovisionsofthissectiontoSection31776.5,inclusive,shallbereferredto

collectivelyasthe“forwardDROPprovisions.”(AddedbyStats.2003,Ch.897(SB274),Sec.1)

§31771.1. Election to participate in forward DROP provisions; form; spousal consent(a)AnymemberwhoelectstoparticipateintheforwardDROPprovisionsofthe

programshallmaketheelectiononaformprescribedandretainedbytheboard.Onthatformthemembershalldoallofthefollowing:

(1)Designateaprogramperiodthatwillnotexceed60monthsofelapsedtime,agreeto terminate covered employment under the system no later than the end of that designated period,andacknowledgethatparticipationintheprogramisnotaguaranteeofcontinuedemploymentforanyperiod.

(2)Waiveanyclaimswithrespecttoageandotherdiscriminationinemploymentlawsrelativetotheprogramasarerequiredbytheemployerorthesystem.

(3)Waivetherighttodisabilityretirementbenefitsbasedonaconditionrelatingtoanillnessorinjurythatoccurredpriortotheprogramperiod.ThiswaiverdoesnotapplytoanyrightsthemembermayhaveunderSection31720.5,31720.6,or31720.7,whichrightsshallremainineffectuntilthememberreceivesadistributionofsomeorallofthebalanceinhisorherprogramaccount.

(b)Ifthememberismarried,themember’sspouseshallexecuteastatement,onaformprescribedbytheboard,acknowledgingthespouse’sunderstandingof,andagreementwith,themember’selectiontoparticipateintheprogram,togetherwithanexpressstatementofthespouse’sunderstandingandagreementthatbenefitspayabletothespouseuponthedeathofthememberwillbereducedasaresultofthatparticipation.


§31771.2. Accrual of benefits under this article; irrevocability of election; exceptions; rights and privileges; eligibility of spouse(a)Onandaftertheelectiondate,theparticipantshallceasetoaccrueretirementbenefits

underthischapter,andinsteadshallbegintoaccruebenefitsundertheprogrampursuanttothetermsofthisarticle,whichbenefitsshallbecreditedtotheparticipant’sprogramaccountpursuanttoSection31772.

(b)Amember’selectiontoparticipateintheprogramshallbeirrevocableexceptinthefollowing circumstances:

(1)Ifthememberismarriedontheelectiondateandifthatspousediesduringtheprogramperiod,themembermay,within90daysafterthespouse’sdeath,electtorevokehisorherelectiontoparticipateintheprogram.Inthatcase,themember’sbenefitsshallbecalculatedonretirementasifthememberhadneverenteredtheprogram.

(2)IfthememberelectstoretirefordisabilityunderthecircumstancesdescribedinSection31774,themember’sparticipationintheprogramshallceaseandthemembermayapplyforconversionofthedeferredretirementallowancetoadisabilityallowancecalculatedat date of entry into the program, and the employee shall retain all proceeds in the program account.

(c)(1)Aparticipantintheprogramshallhavealloftherights,privileges,andbenefits,

Article11.5,§31770.8.-§31771.2.289

andissubjecttoalltermsandconditionsofactiveemploymentincluding,butnotlimitedto,eligibilityforotherbenefitprogramsnotrelatedtoretirementbenefits,seniority,accrualanduseofvacationandsickleave,andpayincreases.

(2)Aparticipantshallcontinuetomakenormalmembercontributionsunderthischapterduringtheprogramperiod.

(d)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedinSection31773,eligibilityofaspouseforanybenefits,includingsurvivor’sbenefitsshallbebasedontheparticipant’smaritalstatusandthedurationofthemarriageasoftheretirementdate.


§31771.3. Implementing ordinance; statement regarding employer contributionsTheimplementingordinanceshallspecify,basedontheresultsoftheactuarialanalysis

andtherequirementthattheprogrambecostneutral,asdescribedinSection31770.4,whethertheemployershallberequiredtocontinuetomakecontributionstothesystemwithrespecttothecompensationofparticipantsintheprogramandwhetherthatcompensationshallbeincludedinthedeterminationofemployercontributionrates.


§31772. Program account restrictions; amount credited to account(a)Aprogramaccountshallbeestablishedwithinthesystemforeachparticipant.No

systemassetsshallbeseparatelysegregatedforanyprogramaccount.Aparticipantmaynothaveaclaimonanyspecificassetsofthesystem.

(b)Aparticipant’sprogramaccountshallbecreditedwithanamountequaltotheserviceretirementallowancethememberwouldhavereceivedifthememberhadretiredforserviceontheelectiondateandhadselectedanunmodifiedallowance,subjecttothefollowing:

(1)Sickleaveandvacationtimeaccruedbythememberasoftheelectiondatemaynotbeincludedinthecalculationofservicecreditorfinalcompensationfortheretirementtimewherethememberenterstheprogram,exceptasotherwiseprovidedinacollectivebargainingagreement.

(2)TheprovisionsofArticle15(commencingwithSection31830)maynotapplyinthecalculationoftheparticipant’sfinalcompensation.

(c)Subjecttotheresultsoftheactuarialanalysisandtherequirementthattheprogrambecostneutral,theimplementingordinancemayprovidethatsomeorallofthefollowingamountsshallalsobecreditedmonthlytotheparticipant’sprogramaccount:

(1)Someorallofthenormalmembercontributionsunderthischaptermadeby,oronbehalfof,theparticipantduringtheprogramperiod.

(2)Someoralloftheemployercontributionstothesystemmadeonaccountoftheparticipantduringtheprogramperiod.

(3)Someoralloftheannualcost-of-livingadjustmentsthememberwouldhavereceivedifthememberhadretiredforserviceontheelectiondateandselectedanunmodifiedallowance.

(4)Interest.Iftheimplementingordinanceprovidesforthecreditingofinterest,itshallbecreditedsemiannuallyataratethatisequalto:(A)theinterestrate,ifany,applicabletoemployeecontributionstothesystem,or(B)afixedratespecifiedintheimplementingordinance,or(C)aratedeterminedsemiannuallybytheretirementboard.


§31772.1. Statement of accountTheboardshallprovideastatementtotheparticipantthatdisplaysthevalueorbalance

Article11.5,§31771.2.-§31772.1. 290

oftheparticipant’sprogramaccountandsummarizesanycreditstotheaccountorothertransactionsthatoccurredaftertheimmediatelyprecedingvaluationdate.Thestatementofaccountshallbeprovidedatleastonceannuallytoeachparticipant,andmaybeprovidedmoreoften.


§31773. Participant dying during program period; procedure(a)Ifaparticipantdiesduringtheprogramperiod,heorsheshallbedeemedtohave

diedwhileeligibleforretirementandhisorherbenefitsshallbecalculatedasifinactiveservice,exceptasprovidedinsubdivisions(b)and(c).

(b)BenefitsunderArticle12(commencingwithSection31780)or,ifapplicable,Section31765,31765.1,or31765.11shallbecalculatedasiftheparticipanthaddiedontheelectiondate.Notwithstandingtheforegoing,eligibilityofaspouseforanybenefitsshallbebasedontheparticipant’smaritalstatusandthedurationofthemarriageasoftheactualdateofdeath.

(c)Thebalanceintheparticipant’sprogramaccountshallbedistributedpursuanttoSection31776.4.


§31774. Participant becoming eligible for disability retirement during program period; procedureIfaparticipantbecomeseligiblefordisabilityretirementduetoaninjuryorillness

occurringduringtheprogramperiodorpursuanttoSection31720.5,31720.6,or31720.7,theparticipant shall elect to either:

(a)Retirefordisability,inwhichcasetheparticipantmayapplyforconversionofthedeferredretirementallowancetoadisabilityallowancecalculatedattheelectiondateandtheemployeeshallretainalloftheproceedsintheprogramaccount.

(b)Retireforservice,inwhichcasetheparticipantshallwaiveanyrightsheorshemayhavetodisabilityretirementbenefits,exceptasprovidedinSection31720.5,31720.6,or31720.7,andshallbeentitledtoadistributionofthebalanceinhisorherprogramaccountandamonthlyretirementallowance,asprovidedinSection31776.1.


§31775. Termination of participant in programParticipationintheprogramshallbeterminated,andthememberwillnothavearight

orclaimtoanycontinuingbenefitsundertheprogramuponthefirstoccurrenceofanyofthefollowing events:

(a)Revocationofparticipation,asprovidedinsubdivision(b)ofSection31771.2.(b)Involuntaryterminationofemployment.Ifaterminationforcauseisreversed,a

member’sparticipationintheprogramshallbereinstatedandthemembershallbemadewholeforthedurationoftheoriginalprogramperiod,asdesignatedbythememberuponentryintotheprogram.

(c)Commencementofdisabilityretirementbenefits,asprovidedinsubdivision(a)ofSection31774.


§31776. Completion of participation and entitlement to benefitsParticipationintheprogramshallbecompletedandtheparticipantshallbeentitled

tobenefitsundertheprogramuponthefirstoccurrenceofeitherofthefollowingduringtheprogram period:

Article11.5,§31772.1.-§31776.291

(a)Retirementoftheparticipantforservice.(b)Deathoftheparticipant.(AddedbyStats.2003,Ch.897(SB274),Sec.1)

§31776.1. Termination of employment and retirement from service; procedureUponterminationofemploymentandretirementforserviceunderthesystem,a

participant shall:(a)Receiveadistribution,inthemannerprescribedinSection31776.3,ofthebalancein

theparticipant’sprogramaccount.(b)Beginreceivingamonthlyretirementallowanceinanamountcalculatedpursuantto

Section31776.2.(c)Waivetherighttoanydisabilityretirementbenefitsfromthesystem,exceptfor

postretirementdisabilityrights.ThiswaiverdoesnotincludeanyrightsthemembermayhavepursuanttoSections31720.5,31720.6,and31720.7.


§31776.2. Monthly allowance; amountTheparticipant’smonthlyallowanceshallbeanamountequaltothemonthlyallowance

the participant would have received if he or she had retired for service on the election date, subjecttothefollowing:

(a)Anyunusedsickleaveorvacationleavethataccruedasoftheelectiondateandwasnotusedbytheparticipantduringtheprogramperiodmaybeincludedinthecalculationoftheparticipant’sallowanceinaccordancewithacollectivebargainingagreement,subjecttootherretirementrulesformembersnotparticipatingintheprogram.

(b)Theparticipant’sallowancemaybeadjustedinaccordancewiththeimplementingordinanceforsomeorallofthecost-of-livingadjustmentsthattheparticipantwouldhavereceivedduringtheprogramperiodasiftheparticipanthadretiredontheelectiondate.

(c)Theparticipant’sallowanceshallbeadjustedbasedonanyelectionbytheparticipantofanyoptionalretirementallowancepursuanttoArticle11(commencingwithSection31760).Theadjustmentshallbebasedontheagesoftheparticipantand,ifapplicable,theparticipant’sspouseorbeneficiaryasoftheretirementdate.

(d)TheprovisionsofArticle15(commencingwithSection31830)shallapplyforpurposesofcalculatingtheparticipant’sallowance.Theparticipantshallbedeemedtohaveretiredontheretirementdateforpurposesofdeterminingwhetherthememberretiredconcurrentlyunderbothsystemsasrequiredunderthisarticle.


§31776.3. Methods of distribution(a)Unlesstheimplementingordinanceotherwiseprovides,thebalanceinthe

participant’sprogramaccountshallbedistributedtotheparticipantinasinglelump-sumpaymentatthetimeofretirement.Ifrequestedbytheparticipant,thepaymentmaybeimmediatelydepositedintoaqualifiedtax-deferredaccountestablishedbytheparticipant.

(b)Theimplementingordinancemayprovideoneormoreofthefollowingoptionalformsofdistributionforaparticipant’saccount:

(1)Substantiallylevelinstallmentpaymentsover240monthsstartingwiththedatethatthememberleavesDROP.Thebalanceintheparticipant’saccountduringtheinstallmentpayoutperiodshallbecreditedwithinterestatthesamerate,ifany,asisbeingcreditedtoprogramaccountsforcurrentlyactivemembers.Acost-of-livingadjustmentmaynotbemadetothemonthlyamountbeingpaidpursuanttothisparagraph.

Article11.5,§31776.-§31776.3. 292

(2)AnannuityinaformestablishedbytheboardandsubjecttotheapplicableprovisionsoftheInternalRevenueCodethatshallbetheactuarialequivalentofthebalanceintheparticipant’sprogramaccountontheretirementdate.The“actuarialequivalent”underthisparagraphshallbedeterminedonthesamebasisasisusedfordeterminingoptionalsettlementsatretirementforamember’smonthlyretirementallowance.

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, a participant, nonparticipant spouse,orbeneficiarymaynotbepermittedtoelectadistributionunderthisarticlethatdoesnotsatisfytherequirementsofSection401(a)(9)ofTitle26oftheUnitedStatesCode,includingtheincidentaldeathbenefitrequirementsofSection401(a)(9)(G)andtheregulationsthereunder.

(d)Therequiredbeginningdateofdistributionsthatreflecttheentireinterestoftheparticipantshallbeasfollows:

(1)Inthecaseofalump-sumdistributiontotheparticipant,thelump-sumpaymentshallbemade,attheparticipant’soption,notlaterthanApril1ofthecalendaryearfollowingthelaterofthecalendaryearinwhichtheparticipantattainstheageof70andone-halfyears(oragedeterminedbytheInternalRevenueService)orthecalendaryearinwhichtheparticipantterminatesallemploymentfortheemployer.

(2)Inthecaseofadistributiontotheparticipantintheformofinstallmentpaymentsoranannuity,paymentshallbegin,attheparticipant’soption,notlaterthanApril1ofthecalendaryearfollowingthelaterofthecalendaryearinwhichtheparticipantattainsage70andone-halfyears(oragedeterminedbytheInternalRevenueService)orthecalendaryearinwhichtheparticipantterminatesallemploymentsubjecttocoveragebytheplan.

(3)Inthecaseofabenefitpayableonaccountoftheparticipant’sdeath,distributionshallbepaidattheoptionofthebeneficiary,nolaterthanDecember31ofthecalendaryearinwhichthefirstanniversaryoftheparticipant’sdateofdeathoccursunlessthebeneficiaryistheparticipant’sspouseinwhichcasedistributionsshallcommenceonorbeforethelaterofeitherof the following:

(A)December31ofthecalendaryearimmediatelyfollowingthecalendaryearinwhichtheparticipantdies.

(B)December31ofthecalendaryearinwhichtheparticipantwouldhaveattainedtheageof70andone-halfyears(oragedeterminedbytheInternalRevenueService).


§31776.4. Designation of beneficiaries(a)Aparticipantmaydesignateapersonorpersonsasbeneficiariesofthebalancein

theparticipant’sprogramaccountatanytimeduringtheprogramperiod.Anybeneficiaryorbeneficiariesshallbedesignatedonaformprescribedbytheboard,signedbytheparticipant,andfiledwiththeboard.

(b)Theparticipant’sbeneficiarydesignationmaynotbegiveneffectandshallbeoverridden to the extent that designation would impair the rights of any surviving spouse or survivingminorsunderapplicablefederalorstatelaw.

(c)Unlessotherwiseprovidedinthebeneficiarydesignationform,eachdesignatedbeneficiaryshallbeentitledtoequalsharesofthelump-sumdistributionthatshallbepayablefromtheparticipant’sprogramaccountuponthedeathoftheparticipant.

(d)Thenominationofabeneficiaryorbeneficiariesunderthissectionmayberevokedatthepleasureofthepersonwhomadethenominationandadifferentbeneficiaryorbeneficiariesmaybenominatedbyawrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard.

Article11.5,§31776.3.-§31776.4.293

(e)Iftheparticipantdieswithoutavalidbeneficiarydesignationonfile,orifnodesignatedbeneficiarysurvivestheparticipant,anybalanceremainingintheparticipant’saccountshallbepayabletotheparticipant’sestate.


§31776.5. Final compensationThefinalcompensationcalculatedunderSection31776.2shallbethemember’sfinal

compensationforpurposesofcalculatinganyreciprocalbenefitsduethememberfromanotherretirementsystempursuanttoArticle15(commencingwithSection31830).


§31777. Actuarial equivalent DROP provisions(a)Theprovisionsofthissectionshallbereferredtoasthe“actuarialequivalentDROP

provisions.”(b)Amemberwhoretiresforserviceonoraftertheoperativedateoftheprogrammay

elect,onaformprescribedbytheboard,toreceivealump-sumpaymentandanactuariallyreduced monthly allowance pursuant to this section in lieu of the monthly allowance that wouldotherwisebepayabletothememberpursuanttothischapter.

(c)AmemberwhohaselectedtoparticipateintheforwardDROPprovisionsoftheprogram,pursuanttoSections31771to31776.5,inclusive,orthebackwardDROPprovisionsoftheprogram,pursuanttoSections31778to31778.2,inclusive,isnoteligibletomaketheelectionprovidedunderthissection.

(d)(1)Amemberwhomakestheelectiondescribedinthissectionshallreceiveaone-timelump-sumpaymentatthetimeofretirementinanamountchosenbythememberthatmaynotexceedthemaximumamountspecifiedintheimplementingordinance,asprovidedinsubdivision(e).

(2)Theamountofthelump-sumpaymentshallbecalculatedinaccordancewiththeimplementingordinance.

(e)Theimplementingordinanceshallprescribeoneofthefollowingamountsasthemaximumamountofthelump-sumpaymentunderthissection:

(1)Theaggregateamountofthemember’scontributionstothesystem,plusinterestifapplicable.

(2)Theactuarialpresentvalueof20percentofthemonthlyallowanceotherwisepayabletothememberunderthischapter.

(3)Anamountthatwouldcausethemember’smonthlyallowanceunderthischaptertobeactuariallyreducedtoanamountequalto50percentofthemember’sfinalcompensation.

(f)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,amemberwhomakestheelectiondescribedinthissectionshallreceiveamonthlyallowancepursuanttothischapterthatshallbeactuariallyreducedtoreflectthelump-sumamountpaidundersubdivision(d).


§31778. Backward DROP provisions; electionTheprovisionsofthissectionthroughthoseofSection31778.2,inclusive,shallbe

referredtocollectivelyasthe“backwardDROPprovisions.”Amemberwhoretiresonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheprogrammayelectuponapplicationforserviceordisabilityretirement,onaformprescribedbytheboard,toreceive:

(a)AbackwardDROPpaymentcalculatedunderSection3l778.1.(b)Amonthlyretirementallowancecalculatedasifthememberhadretiredonthe

Article11.5,§31776.4.-§31778. 294

deferredretirementcalculationdate,exceptthattheretirementformulaapplicabletothemember’sserviceasoftheelectiondateshallbeusedtocalculatetheamountofthemember’smonthlyretirementallowance.


§31778.1. One-time lump-sum paymentAmemberwhomakestheelectiondescribedinSection31778shallreceiveaone-time

lump-sumpaymentuponretirementinanamountascalculatedbelow.(a)Aparticipant’sprogramaccountshallbecreditedwithanamountequaltothe

retirementallowancethememberwouldhavereceivedifthememberhadretiredonthedeferredretirementcalculationdateandhadselectedanunmodifiedallowance.

(b)Thecost-of-livingadjustmentsthatwouldhavebeenapplicableduringthatperiodshallbeincluded,applyingthedeferredretirementcalculationdateasthebaseyearfortheadjustment.

(c)Allofthenormalcontributionsthatthemembermadeunderthischapter,plusinterestapplicableduringtheperiodfromthedeferredretirementcalculationdatetotheelectiondate.

(d)Someoralloftheemployercontributionsmadeonaccountoftheparticipantunderthischapter,asagreedtoinacollectivebargainingagreement,plusinterestapplicablefortheperiodfromthedeferredretirementcalculationdatetotheelectiondate.

(e)Themember’sprogrampaymentshallbetheamountcalculatedundersubdivision(a)multipliedbythenumberofmonthsinthedeferredretirementperiod,plusthecost-of-livingadjustmentcalculatedundersubdivision(b),themembercontributionscalculatedundersubdivision(c),andtheemployercontributionscalculatedundersubdivision(d).Theamountshallalsoincludeinterestatarateagreeduponinthecollectivebargainingagreementandadoptedbytheboardofretirement,applicabletotheamountsderivedfromsubdivisions(a)and(b),fortheperiodfromthedeferredretirementcalculationdatetotheelectiondate.Theprogrampaymentshallalsobecreditedwithinterestatarateestablishedbytheboardfortheperiodfromtheelectiondateuntilthepaymentismade.


§31778.2. Participant dying between deferred calculation date and election date; procedure(a)Ifaparticipantdiesduringtheperiodfromthedeferredcalculationdatetothe

electiondate,heorsheshallbedeemedtohavediedwhileeligibleforthedeferredretirementoptionandtheparticipant’seligiblespouseorotherbeneficiaryshallbequalifiedtoelectthedeferredretirementoptionunderSection31778asiftheparticipantwerestillliving,exceptasprovidedinsubdivisions(b)and(c).

(b)BenefitsunderArticle12(commencingwithSection31780)or,ifapplicable,Section31765,31765.1or31765.11shallbecalculatedasiftheparticipanthaddiedonthedeferredretirementcalculationdate.

Notwithstandingtheforegoing,eligibilityofaspouseforanybenefitsshallbebasedontheparticipant’smaritalstatusandthedurationofthemarriageasoftheactualdateofdeath.

(c)Thebalanceintheparticipant’sprogramaccountshallbedistributedpursuanttoSection31778.3.


§31778.3. Designation of beneficiaries(a)Aparticipantmaydesignateapersonorpersonsasbeneficiariesoftheparticipant’s

program account at any time during the period from the deferred retirement calculation date to

Article11.5,§31778.-§31778.3.295

theelectiondate.Thebeneficiaryorbeneficiariesshallbedesignatedonaformprescribedbytheboard,signedbytheparticipant,andfiledwiththeboard.

(b)Theparticipant’sbeneficiarydesignationmaynotbegiveneffect,andshallbeoverridden, to the extent that designation would impair the rights of any surviving spouse or survivingminorsunderapplicablefederalorstatelaw.

(c)Unlessotherwiseprovidedinthebeneficiarydesignationform,eachdesignatedbeneficiaryshallbeentitledtoequalsharesofthelump-sumdistributionthatshallbepayablefromtheparticipant’sprogramaccountuponthedeathoftheparticipant.

(d)Thenominationofabeneficiaryorbeneficiariesunderthissectionmayberevokedatthepleasureofthepersonwhomadethenomination,andadifferentbeneficiaryorbeneficiariesmaybenominatedbyawrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard.

(e)Iftheparticipantdieswithoutavalidbeneficiarydesignationonfile,orifnodesignatedbeneficiarysurvivestheparticipant,theparticipant’saccountshallbepayabletotheparticipant’sestate.


§31778.4. Termination of employment and retirement from system; member’s program paymentUponterminationofemploymentandretirementfromthesystem,amemberwho

haselectedtoparticipateintheprogramshallreceivethemember’sprogrampayment,ascalculatedpursuanttoSection31778.1andinaccordancewiththedistributionprovisionsofSections31776.3,31776.4,and31776.5.


§31779. Actuarial analysis of cost impact; review and consideration(a)Aftertheprogramhasbeenineffectforaperiodofatleastfouryearsandnotmore

than10years,asspecifiedintheimplementingordinance,oruptooneyearpriortotheendofthatspecifiedperiod,theboardshallcauseanactuarialanalysisofthecostimpactoftheprogramtobepreparedandpresentedtotheboardofsupervisorsorgoverningbodyofthedistrictforitsreviewandconsideration.

(b)Iftheactuarialanalysisdisclosesthattheprogramhasnotbeencostneutral,theboardofsupervisorsorgoverningboardshall,byordinanceorresolutionpursuanttoacollectivebargainingagreementwiththebargainingunit,either:

(1)Discontinuetheprogram,subjecttoSection31779.1.(2)Modifytheprograminamannerconsistentwiththeactuarialanalysisandthe

provisionsofthisarticlesothattheprogramwillbecostneutral.(AddedbyStats.2003,Ch.897(SB274),Sec.1)

§31779.1. Discontinuance of program; rights of participantsThe rights of a participant who has retired under the program, whose deferred

retirement calculation date, or whose program period is in effect at the time the program is discontinuedmaynotbeaffectedbythediscontinuanceoftheprogramandthatparticipantshallremainsubjecttotheprovisionsoftheprogramasitexistedontheparticipant’selectiondate.


§31779.2. Modification of program; participants’ right to electIftheprogramismodifiedpursuanttoparagraph(2)ofsubdivision(b)ofSection31779,

participantswhoentered,orwhowereeligiblefor,theprogrampriortotheeffectivedateof

Article11.5,§31778.3.-§31779.2. 296

themodificationshallbeentitledtoelectwhethertobecomesubjecttothemodifiedprovisionsoftheprogramortoremainsubjecttotheprogramasitexistedontheparticipant’sdeferredretirementcalculationdateorelectiondate,whicheveroccurredfirst.


§31779.3. Periodic actuarial analysis of cost impactAslongastheprogramremainsineffect,eitherasoriginallyadoptedorasmodified

pursuanttoparagraph(2)ofsubdivision(b)ofSection31779,theboardofretirementshallcauseanactuarialanalysisofthecostimpactoftheprogramtobepreparedasprovidedinSection31779attheendofeachsuccessiveperiodspecifiedintheimplementingordinanceorsubsequentlyadoptedbyordinanceorresolution,andtheboardofsupervisorsorgoverningbodymaytaketheactionsdescribedinSection31779asappropriatebasedontheoutcomeofthatanalysis.


Article 12Death Benefit


§31780. Liability for death benefit; paymentUponthedeathbeforeretirementofamemberwhileinserviceorwhilephysicallyor

mentallyincapacitatedfortheperformanceofhisduty,ifsuchincapacityhasbeencontinuousfrom discontinuance of service, or within one month after discontinuance of service unless the member’saccumulatedcontributionshavebeenpaidtothememberpursuanttoSection31628,theretirementsystemisliableforadeathbenefitwhichshallbepaid:

(a)AsprovidedinSection31765or31765.1or31765.11or31781.1or31787, if the survivingspouseorguardianofoneormoreofthesurvivingchildrenofthemembersoelects,or

(b)IfnoelectionismadepursuanttoSection31765,or31765.1,or31765.11,or31781.1,or31787andnopersonisentitledtoasurvivor’sallowancepursuanttoArticle15.5(commencingwithSection31841)orArticle16(commencingwithSection31861)tosuchpersonashenominatesbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard,beforethedeathofthemember,or

(c)Ifnosuchelectionismade,andaparentasdefinedinArticle15.5butnootherpersonisentitledtoasurvivor’sallowancepursuanttoArticle15.5or16andasurvivingspouseorchildisdesignatedasbeneficiary,tosuchsurvivingspouseorchild,or

(d)Ifnosuchelectionismade,nopersonisentitledtoasurvivor’sallowancepursuanttoArticle15.5or16,andamemberhasnotnominatedabeneficiary,tohisestate.

(AmendedbyStats.1980,Ch.58,Sec.13,EffectiveApril4,1980)

§31780.1. Survivor benefits; unmarried children; determination of marital status; change in marital statusAchildeligibletoreceiveasurvivorbenefitunderSection31760.1,31781.1,31786,or

31787shallbeconsideredunmarriedifthechildisnotmarriedasofthedatethememberdies,whetherornotthechildwaspreviouslymarried.Ifthechildthereaftermarries,eligibilityforthesurvivorbenefitshallterminate,andthebenefitshallnotbereinstatedifthechildsubsequentlyreturnstounmarriedstatus.


Article11.5,§31779.2.-Article12,§31780.1.297

§31780.2. Domestic partners; Benefits; Operative date contingent(a)AnybenefitsaccordedtoaspousepursuanttothisarticleandArticle11

(commencingwithSection31760),Article15.5(commencingwithSection31841),Article15.6(commencingwithSection31855),andArticle16(commencingwithSection31861),oranyofthem,maybeaccordedtoadomesticpartner,asdefinedinSection297oftheFamilyCode,whoisregisteredwiththeSecretaryofStatepursuanttoDivision2.5(commencingwithSection297)oftheFamilyCode.Thecountymayalsorequirethememberandthemember’sdomesticpartnertohaveacurrentAffidavitofDomesticPartnership,intheformadoptedbythecountyboardofsupervisors,onfilewiththecountyforatleastoneyearpriortothemember’sretirementordeathpriortoretirement.

(b)Ifamemberdescribedinsubdivision(a)hasasurvivingdependentchild,thesurvivingdependentchildshallreceivethedeathandsurvivor’sallowanceuntil18yearsofageoruntilmarried,whicheveroccursearlier,oruntil22yearsofageifenrolledasafull-timestudentinanaccreditededucationalinstitution.Whenthemember’ssurvivingdependentchildreaches18yearsofageorisnolongeradependent,whicheveroccursearlier,orreaches22yearsofageifenrolledasafull-timestudentinanaccreditededucationalinstitution,thenthebenefitsaccordedtoaspouse,asspecifiedinsubdivision(a),maybeaccordedtoadomesticpartnerpursuanttothissection.However,ifasurvivingdependentchildelectstoreceivealump-sumpayment,thelump-sumpaymentshallbesharedamonganysurvivingdependentchildrenandthedomesticpartner,pursuanttothissection,inaproportionalmanner.

(c)Thissectionisnotoperativeunlessanduntilthecountyboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativeinthecounty.Inacountyofthe10thclass,asdefinedinSections28020and28031,thecountyboardofsupervisorsmayimplementthebenefitsdescribedinthissectionasdeterminedthroughthecollectivebargainingprocessandbasedonactuarialcostestimates.

(d)ThissectionshallnotapplytoanymemberwhosedeathoccursonorafterJanuary1,2009.

(AddedbyStats.2001,Ch.893(AB25),Sec.9.5)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.79(AB266),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.780(SB85),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2008,Ch.197(AB2673),Sec.1)

§31781. Death benefit; elementsThedeathbenefitshallconsistof:(a)Themember’saccumulatedcontributions.(b)Anamount,providedfromcontributionsbythecountyordistrict,equalto

one-twelfthoftheannualcompensationearnablebythedeceasedduringthe12monthsimmediatelyprecedinghisdeath,multipliedbythenumberofcompletedyearsofserviceunderthesystem,butnottoexceed50percentofsuchannualcompensation.


§31781.01. Contra Costa County; death benefit; elements (Contra Costa)NotwithstandingSection31781,thedeathbenefitofamembercoveredunderSection

31751 shall consist of:(a)Themember’saccumulatedcontributions.(b)Alumpsumoftwothousanddollars($2,000)offsetbyanylump-sumdeathpayment

madeunderthefederalSocialSecurityAct.(AddedbyStats.1980,Ch.58,Sec.14,EffectiveApril4,1980)

Article12,§31780.2.-§31781.01. 298

§31781.1. Optional death allowance; election by surviving spouse; persons to whom paid; minor children(a)Ifamemberofaretirementsystemestablishedinacountysubjecttotheprovisions

ofSection31676.1wouldhavebeenentitledtoretirementintheeventofanon-service-connecteddisability,butdiesastheresultofaninjuryorillnesspriortoretirement,thesurvivingspouseofthemembershallhavetherighttoelect,bywrittennoticefiledwiththeboard,toreceiveandbepaidinlieuofthedeathbenefitprovidedinSections31780and31781,an“optionaldeathallowance.”

(b)Theallowanceshallconsistofamonthlypaymentequalto60percentofthemonthlyretirementallowancetowhichthedeceasedmemberwouldhavebeenentitledifheorshehadretiredbyreasonofnon-service-connecteddisabilityasofthedateofhisorherdeath.

(c)Ifthesurvivingspouseelectstoreceivethe“optionaldeathallowance”thepaymentsdueforthisallowanceshallberetroactivetothedateofthedeceasedmember’sdeath,andshallcontinuethroughoutthelifeofthespouse.

(d)Ifthesurvivingspouseelectstoreceivethe“optionaldeathallowance,”andthereafter dies leaving an unmarried surviving child or unmarried children of the deceased memberundertheageof18years,the“optionaldeathallowance”shallthereafterbepaidtothosesurvivingchildrencollectivelyuntileachchilddies,marries,orreachestheageof18years.Therightofanychildtotheallowanceshallceaseuponthechild’sdeathormarriage,oruponreachingtheageof18years,andtheentireamountoftheallowanceshallthereafterbepaidcollectivelytoeachoftheotherqualifiedchildren.

(e)Ifthedeceasedmemberleavesnosurvivingspousebutleavesanunmarriedchildorchildrenundertheageof18years,thelegallyappointedguardianofthechildorchildrenshallmaketheelectionprovidedinthissectiononbehalfofthesurvivingchildorchildrenthat,inhisorherjudgment,isinthebestinterestsofthesurvivingchildorchildren.Theelectionmadeshallbebindingandconclusiveuponallpartiesininterest.

(f)Therightsandprivilegesconferredbythissectionuponthesurvivingspouseandeachchildofthedeceasedmemberarenotdependentuponwhetheranyofthesepersonshavebeennominatedbythedeceasedmemberasthebeneficiaryofanydeathbenefitsandshallsupersedetherightsandclaimsofanyotherbeneficiarysonominated.

(g)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletoeachchildofthemembershallbepaidtoeachchildthroughtheageof21ifthechildremainsunmarriedandisregularlyenrolledasafull-timestudentinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(h)Forpurposesofthissection,“child”meansanaturaloradoptedchildofthedeceasedmember,orastepchildlivingordomiciledwiththedeceasedmemberatthetimeofhisorherdeath.

(AddedbyStats.1957,Ch.1161,Sec.5)(AmendedbyStats.1967,Ch.1622,Sec.4)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.840(AB933),Sec.2)

§31781.11. Increase in death benefits; resolution adopted by majority vote (Los Angeles)TheboardofsupervisorsofacountyofthefirstclassasdescribedbySections28020and

28022may,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,increasetheamountsofthedeathbenefitspayablepursuanttoSections31760.1,31765.1,31781.1,and31785,withrespecttoadeathoccurringonorafterthedatethissectionbecomesoperativeinacounty,uptotheamountofthemonthlyallowancetowhichthedeceasedmemberwasorwouldhavebeenentitledasofthedateofhisorherdeath.


Article12,§31781.1.-§31781.11.299

§31781.12. Amount of allowance paid pursuant to Section 31781.1 on account of member who dies on or after operative date of this section; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)NotwithstandingSection31781.1,eachallowancepaidpursuanttoSection31781.1on

accountofamemberwhodiesonoraftertheoperativedateofthissectionshallbeequalto65percentofthemonthlyretirementallowancetowhichthedeceasedmemberwouldhavebeenentitled,withoutmodificationinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle,ifheorshehadretired,orbeenretired,byreasonofanonservice-connecteddisabilityasofthedateofdeath.



§31781.13. Amount of allowance paid on or after operative date of this section pursuant to Section 31781.1 on account of member who dies before operative date of this section; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)NotwithstandingSection31781.1,eachallowancepaidonoraftertheoperative

dateofthissectionpursuanttoSection31781.1onaccountofamemberwhodiesbeforetheoperativedateofthissectionshallbeequalto65percentofthemonthlyretirementallowancetowhichthedeceasedmemberwouldhavebeenentitled,withoutmodificationinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinthisarticle,ifheorshehadretired,orbeenretired,byreasonofanonservice-connecteddisabilityasofthedateofdeath,adjustedforthenetcost-of-livingpercentageincrease,ifany,awardedtothatsurvivorpriortotheoperativedateofthissection.



§31781.2. Deferred death benefits; children’s benefits; minor childrenInlieuofacceptingincashthedeathbenefitpayableunderSection31781or31781.01,

thesurvivingspouseofamemberwhodiespriortoreachingtheminimumretirementageandwhoatthedateofhisorherdeathhas10ormoreyearsofservicetohisorhercredit,shallhavetheoptiontoleavetheamountofthedeathbenefitondepositintheretirementsystemuntiltheearliestdatewhenthedeceasedmembercouldhaveretiredhadheorshelived,andatthattimereceivetheretirementallowanceprovidedforinSection31765or31765.1or31765.11,whicheverisapplicable.

If,atthedeathofsuchspouse,heorsheissurvivedbyoneormoreunmarriedchildrenofthemember,undertheageof18years,theretirementallowanceshallcontinuetothechildorchildren,collectively,untileverychilddies,marries,orattainstheageof18years.Ifthespousedies,eitherbeforeorafterthedeathofthemember,withouteithermakingtheelectionreceivinganyportionofthedeathbenefit,andnopartofthedeathbenefithadbeenpaidtoanyperson,priortothepaymentofanybenefits,thelegallyappointedguardianofthechildrenshallmaketheelectionhereinprovidedforonbehalfofsuchsurvivingchildrenas,inhisorherjudgment,mayappeartobeintheirinterestandadvantage,andtheelectionsomadeshallbebindingandconclusiveuponallpartiesininterest.

Article12,§31781.12.-§31781.2. 300

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthemembershallbepaidtosuchchildrenthroughtheageof21yearsifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(AmendedbyStats.1980,Ch.58,Sec.15,EffectiveApril4,1980)(AmendedbyStats.2005,Ch.22(SB1108))

§31781.3. Combined benefit; election by surviving spouseThesurvivingspouseofamemberwhodiesinserviceafterfiveyearsofserviceoras

aresultofservice-connectedinjuryordiseasemayelect,inlieuofthedeathbenefitinSection31781orthelifeannuityprovidedinSection31781.1or31787,thefollowingcombinedbenefits:

(a)Anamount,providedfromcontributionsbythecountyordistrict,equaltoone-twelfthoftheannualcompensationearnablebythedeceasedduringthe12monthsimmediatelyprecedinghisdeath,multipliedbythenumberofcompletedyearsofserviceunderthesystem,butnottoexceed50percentofsuchannualcompensation,plus

(b)AmonthlyallowanceasprovidedinSection31781.1or31787reducedbyamonthlyamountwhichistheactuarialequivalentoftheamountinsubdivision(a)asappliedtothelifeofthesurvivingspouse.


§31781.31. Contra Costa County; combined benefit; election by surviving spouse (Contra Costa)NotwithstandingSections31781.1and31781.3,thesurvivingspouseofamember

subjecttoSection31751whodiesinserviceafter10yearsofservice,orasaresultofservice-connectedinjuryordisease,mayelect,inlieuofthelifeannuityprovidedinSection31765.11orthedeathbenefitprovidedinSection31781.01,thefollowingcombinedbenefit:

(a)Anamount,providedfromcontributionsbythecountyordistrict,equaltoone-twelfthoftheannualcompensationearnablebythedeceasedduringthe12monthsimmediatelyprecedinghisdeath,multipliedbythenumberofcompletedyearsofserviceunderthesystem,butnottoexceed50percentofsuchannualcompensation,plus

(b)AmonthlyallowanceasprovidedinSection31765.11reducedbyamonthlyamountwhichistheactuarialequivalentoftheamountinsubdivision(a)asappliedtothelifeofthesurvivingspouse.


§31782. Revocation of nomination of beneficiaryThenominationofabeneficiaryunderthissystem,otherthannominationsunder

optionalsettlements2,3and4,mayberevokedatthepleasureofthepersonwhomadeitandadifferentbeneficiarynominatedbywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard.


§31783. Payment of funeral expenses in absence of beneficiary; effectIfthenominatedbeneficiarycannotbefoundbytheboard,orifthenominated

beneficiaryistheestateofthedeceasedperson,theboardinitsdiscretionmaypaytotheundertakerwhoconductedthefuneralalloraportionoftheamountpayableasadeathbenefit,butnotmorethanthefuneralexpensesofthedeceasedpersonasevidencedbytheswornitemizedstatementoftheundertakerandbysuchotherdocumentsastheboardmayrequire.

Paymentsomadeisafulldischargeoftheboardandsystemfortheamountsopaid.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

Article12,§31781.2.-§31783.301

§31783.5. Unclaimed benefits; location of claimants; holding period; deposits to reserve fund; authority to return(a)Wheneverapersonorestateentitledtopaymentofamember’saccumulated

contributionsoranyotherbenefitfailstoclaimthepaymentorcannotbelocated,theamountowedfromtheretirementfundshallbeadministeredinaccordancewithsubdivision(c).

(b)Theboardshallattempttolocatetheclaimantthroughsuchmeansastheboardinitssounddiscretiondeemsreasonableincluding,butnotlimitedto,aregisteredorcertifiedletter,returnreceiptrequested,mailedtothelastknownaddressoftheclaimant.

(c)Notwithstandinganyprovisionoflawtothecontrary,theamountsdescribedinsubdivision(a)shallbeheldfortheclaimant.Iftheamountsarenotclaimedwithinfiveyearsafterthelastattemptedcontactwiththeclaimant,theamountsshallbedepositedinandbecomeapartofthepensionreservefund.Theboardmayatanytimeaftertransferofunclaimedamounts,uponreceiptofinformationsatisfactorytoit,authorizethereturnofamountssoheldinreservetothecreditoftheclaimant.ThoseamountsshallbepaidonlytoclaimantswhohavenotyetattainedtheageofmandatorydistributionundertheInternalRevenueCode.


§31784. Election of installment payments; lump sum payment on death of beneficiaryThepersontowhomthewholeoranypartofadeathbenefitispayablemay,atanytime

beforepaymentthereof,electinwritingtohavesuchdeathbenefitorpartthereofpaidoveraperiodnottoexceed10yearsinmonthlyinstallments,plusinterestontheunpaidbalancethereof,ataratetobedeterminedbytheboard.Ifsuchpersondiesbeforeallsuchinstallmentsarepaid,theboardshallpaythebalanceinonelumpsumtohisestateorpersonentitledtoreceivehisproperty.


§31785. Continuance of allowance to family of deceased safety member of retirement system of certain counties; restrictions; payment in cases of death prior to January 1, 1952; minor childrenUponthedeathofanysafetymember,afterretirementforserviceornonservice-

connecteddisabilityfromaretirementsystemestablishedinacountysubjecttotheprovisionsofSection31676.1or31695.1,60percentofhisorherretirementallowanceifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinArticle11(commencingwithSection31760),shallbecontinuedthroughoutlifetohisorhersurvivingspouse.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtoanallowancehereunderorifsheorhediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedsafetymemberattainstheageof18years,thentheallowancewhichthesurvivingspousewouldhavereceivedhadsheorhelived,shallbepaidtohisorherchildorchildrenunderthatage,collectively,tocontinueuntileverychilddiesorattainsthatage;provided,thatnochildshallreceiveanyallowanceaftermarryingorattainingtheageof18years.Noallowance,however,shallbepaidunderthissectiontoasurvivingspouseunlesssheorhewasmarriedtothesafetymemberatleastoneyearpriortothedateofhisorherretirement.

AnyqualifiedsurvivingspouseorchildrenofamemberofapensionsystemestablishedpursuanttoeitherChapter4(commencingwithSection31900)orChapter5(commencingwithSection32200),whoshallhavebeenretiredonorbeforeDecember31,1951,shallbepaidaretirementallowancepursuanttotheprovisionsofthissection.IncaseswherethedeathofamemberoccurredpriortoJanuary1,1952,thepaymentoftheretirementallowancetothequalifiedsurvivingspouseorchildrenshallbemadeeffectiveonJanuary1,1952.Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthemembershallbepaidtothosechildrenthroughtheageof21ifthechildren

Article12,§31783.5.-§31785. 302

remainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

ThesupersedingrightspursuanttothissectionshallnotaffectbenefitspayabletoanamedbeneficiaryasprovidedunderSection31789,31789.01,31789.1,31789.12,31789.13,31789.2,31789.3,31789.5,or31790.


§31785.1. Continuance of retirement allowance to surviving spouse or children of deceased safety member; conditions(a)NotwithstandingSection31481or31785,uponthedeathofanysafetymember,

afterretirementforserviceornon-service-connecteddisabilityfromaretirementsystemestablishedinacountypursuanttothischapter,60percentofhisorherretirementallowanceifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinArticle11(commencingwithSection31760),shallbecontinuedtohisorhersurvivingspouseforlife.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtoanallowanceunderthissectionorifsheorhediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedsafetymemberattainstheageof18years,thentheallowancethatthesurvivingspousewouldhavereceivedhadheorshelived,shallbepaidtohisorherchild or children under that age, collectively, to continue until each child dies or attains that age.However,nochildmayreceiveanyallowanceaftermarryingorattainingtheageof18years.

(b)Noallowancemaybepaidunderthissectiontoasurvivingspouseunlessheorshewasmarriedtothesafetymemberatleasttwoyearspriortothedateofdeathandhasattainedtheageof55yearsonorpriortothedateofdeath.

(c)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthemembershallbepaidtothechildrenthroughtheageof21yearsifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(d)NoallowancemaybepaidpursuanttothissectiontoanypersonwhoisentitledtoanallowancepursuanttoSection31785.

(e)ThesupersedingrightspursuanttothissectiondonotaffectbenefitspayabletoanamedbeneficiaryasprovidedunderSection31789,31789.01,31789.1,31789.12,31789.13,31789.2,31789.3,31789.5,or31790.

(f)Thissectionisnotapplicableinanycountyuntiltheboardofretirement,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.Theboard’sresolutionmaydesignateadate,whichmaybepriororsubsequenttothedateoftheresolution,asofwhichtheresolutionandthissectionshallbeoperativeinthecounty.


§31785.4. Amount of survivor allowance paid pursuant to Section 31785 on account of safety member who retires on or after operative date of this section; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)NotwithstandingSection31785,eachsurvivorallowancepaidpursuanttoSection

31785onaccountofasafetymemberwhoretiresonoraftertheoperativedateofthissectionshallbeequalto65percentofthemember’smonthlyretirementallowance,ifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinArticle11(commencingwithSection31760).

ThissectionshallonlybeapplicabletoLosAngelesCountyandshallnotbecome

Article12,§31785.-§31785.4.303

operativeuntiltheboardofsupervisorsofthatcountyelects,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,tomakethissectionoperativeinthecounty.


§31785.5. Amount of survivor allowance paid on or after operative date of this section pursuant to Section 31785 on account of safety member who retires before operative date of this section; application and operative effect (Los Angeles)(a)NotwithstandingSection31785,eachsurvivorallowancepaidonorafterthe

operativedateofthissectionpursuanttoSection31785onaccountofasafetymemberwhoretiresbeforetheoperativedateofthissectionshallbeequalto65percentofthemember’smonthlyretirementallowance,ifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinArticle11(commencingwithSection31760),asadjustedforthenetcost-of-livingpercentageincrease,ifany,awardedtothatsurvivorpriortotheoperativedateofthissection.



§31786. Continuance of allowance to family of deceased member retired for service-connected disability; restrictions; minor childrenUponthedeathofanymemberafterretirementforservice-connecteddisability,hisor

herretirementallowanceasitwasathisorherdeathifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinArticle11(commencingwithSection31760),shallbecontinuedthroughoutlifetohisorhersurvivingspouse.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtoanallowancehereunderorifsheorhediesbeforeeverychildofsuchdeceasedmemberattainstheageof18years,thentheallowancewhichthesurvivingspousewouldhavereceivedhadsheorhelived,shallbepaidtohisorherchildorchildrenundersaidage,collectively,tocontinueuntileverysuchchilddiesorattainssaidage;provided,thatnochildshallreceiveanyallowanceaftermarryingorattainingtheageof18years.Noallowance,however,shallbepaidunderthissectiontoasurvivingspouseunlesssheorhewasmarriedtothememberpriortothedateofhisorherretirement.

Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthemembershallbepaidtothosechildrenthroughtheageof21ifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.


§31786.1. Continuance of retirement allowance to surviving spouse or children of deceased member; conditions(a)NotwithstandingSection31481or31786,uponthedeathofanymemberafter

retirementforservice-connecteddisability,hisorherretirementallowanceasitwasathisorherdeathifnotmodifiedinaccordancewithoneoftheoptionalsettlementsspecifiedinArticle11(commencingwithSection31760),shallbecontinuedtohisorhersurvivingspouseforlife.Ifthereisnosurvivingspouseentitledtoanallowanceunderthissectionorifheorshediesbeforeeverychildofthedeceasedmemberattainstheageof18years,thentheallowancethatthesurvivingspousewouldhavereceivedhadheorshelived,shallbepaidtohisorherchild

Article12,§31785.4.-§31786.1. 304

orchildrenunderthatage,collectively,tocontinueuntileachchilddiesorattainsthatage.However,nochildmayreceiveanyallowanceaftermarryingorattainingtheageof18years.

(b)Noallowancemaybepaidunderthissectiontoasurvivingspouseunlessheorshewasmarriedtothememberatleasttwoyearspriortothedateofdeathandhasattainedtheageof55yearsonorpriortothedateofdeath.

(c)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthemembershallbepaidtothechildrenthroughtheageof21yearsifthechildrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(d)NoallowancemaybepaidpursuanttothissectiontoanypersonwhoisentitledtoanallowancepursuanttoSection31786.

(e)ThesupersedingrightspursuanttothissectiondonotaffectbenefitspayabletoanamedbeneficiaryasprovidedunderSection31789,31789.01,31789.1,31789.12,31789.13,31789.2,31789.3,31789.5,or31790.

(f)Thissectionisnotapplicableinanycountyuntiltheboardofretirement,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.Theboard’sresolutionmaydesignateadate,whichmaybepriororsubsequenttothedateoftheresolution,asofwhichtheresolutionandthissectionshallbeoperativeinthecounty.


§31787. Optional death allowance; surviving spouse or children; election(a)Ifamemberwouldhavebeenentitledtoretirementintheeventofaservice-

connecteddisability,butdiespriortoretirementastheresultofinjuryordiseasearisingoutofandinthecourseofthemember’semployment,thesurvivingspouseofthemembershallhavetherighttoelect,bywrittennoticefiledwiththeboard,toreceiveandbepaidinlieuofthedeathbenefitprovidedforinSections31780and31781,anoptionaldeathallowance.

(b)Theoptionaldeathallowanceshallconsistofamonthlypaymentequaltothemonthlyretirementallowancetowhichthedeceasedmemberwouldhavebeenentitledifheorshehadretiredbyreasonofaservice-connecteddisabilityasofthedateofhisorherdeath.

(c)Ifthesurvivingspouseelectstoreceivetheoptionaldeathallowance,thepaymentsdueforthisallowanceshallberetroactivetothedateofthedeceasedmember’sdeath,andshallcontinuethroughoutthelifeofthespouse.

(d)Ifthesurvivingspouseelectstoreceivetheoptionaldeathallowance,andthereafterdiesleavinganunmarriedsurvivingchildorunmarriedchildrenofthedeceasedmemberundertheageof18years,theoptionaldeathallowanceshallthereafterbepaidtothosesurvivingchildrencollectivelyuntileachchilddies,marries,orreachestheageof18years.Therightofanychildtotheallowanceshallceaseuponthechild’sdeathormarriage,oruponreachingtheageof18years,andtheentireamountoftheallowanceshallthereafterbepaidcollectivelytoeachoftheotherqualifiedchildren.

(e)Ifthedeceasedmemberleavesnosurvivingspousebutleavesanunmarriedchildorchildrenundertheageof18years,thelegallyappointedguardianofthechildorchildrenshallmaketheelectionprovidedinthissectiononbehalfofthesurvivingchildorchildrenthat,inhisorherjudgment,isinthebestinterestsofthesurvivingchildorchildren.Theelectionmadeshallbebindingandconclusiveuponallpartiesininterest.

(f)Therightsandprivilegesconferredbythissectionuponthesurvivingspouseandeachchildofthedeceasedmemberarenotdependentuponwhetheranyofthosepersonshavebeennominatedbythedeceasedmemberasthebeneficiaryofanydeathbenefitsandshallsupersedetherightsandclaimsofanyotherbeneficiarysonominated.

Article12,§31786.1.-§31787.305

(g)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletoeachchildofthemembershallbepaidtoeachchildthroughtheageof21yearsifthechildremainsunmarriedandisregularlyenrolledasafull-timestudentinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(h)Forpurposesofthissection,“child”meansanaturaloradoptedchildofthedeceasedmember,orastepchildlivingordomiciledwiththedeceasedmemberatthetimeofhisorherdeath.

(AddedbyStats.2000,Ch.497(SB2008),Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.840(AB933),Sec.3)Section4ofStats.2003,Ch.840(AB933)providesthatthisactshallapplyretroactively

tothesurvivorsofadeceasedpersonwhodiesoriskilledinthelineofdutyonorafterJanuary1,2001.

§31787.5. Special death benefit; additional amount for children(a)Asurvivingspouseofamemberwhoiskilledintheperformanceofdutyorwho

diesastheresultofanaccidentoraninjurycausedbyexternalviolenceorphysicalforce,incurredintheperformanceofthemember’sduty,noworhereafterentitledtoreceiveadeathallowanceunderSection31787,shallbepaidanadditionalamountforeachofthemember’schildrenduringthelifetimeofthechild,oruntilthechildmarriesorreachestheageof18years,asfollows,subjecttothelimitationinsubdivision(b):

(1)Foronechild,twenty-fivepercent(25%)oftheallowanceprovidedinSection31787.

(2)Fortwochildren,fortypercent(40%)oftheallowanceprovidedinSection31787.(3)Forthreeormorechildren,fiftypercent(50%)oftheallowanceprovidedin

Section31787.(b)Ifabenefitpayableunderthissection,whenaddedtoabenefitpayableunder

Section31787,exceedsthemaximumbenefitpayablebyataxqualifiedpensionplanundertheInternalRevenueCode(26U.S.C.A.Sec.401et.seq.),thebenefitpayableunderthissectionshallbereducedtotheamountrequiredtomeetthatbenefitlimit.

(c)Ifthesurvivingspousedoesnothavelegalcustodyofthemember’schildren,theallowanceprovidedbythissectionshallbepayabletothepersontowhomcustodyofthechildrenhasbeenawardedbyacourtofcompetentjurisdictionforeachchildduringthelifetimeofthechild,oruntilthechildmarriesorreachestheageof18years.

(d)Theallowanceprovidedbythissectionshallbepayabletothesurvivingspousesofmemberswhosedutiesconsistofactivelawenforcementoractivefiresuppressionoranyotherclassorgroupofmembersastheretirementboardshallfix.TheallowanceprovidedbythissectionisnotpayabletothesurvivingspousesofmembersdescribedinSection31469.2.

(e)AnychildwhoseeligibilityforanallowancepursuanttothissectioncommencedonorafterOctober1,1965,shalllosethateligibilityeffectiveonthedateofhisorheradoption.

(f)Thissectionshallbecomeoperativeinanycounty,whichhasadoptedtheprovisionsofthischapterbutwhichhasnotpreviouslyadoptedtheprovisionsofthissectiononOctober1,1965.Eachsurvivingspouseofamemberorotherpersonhavinglegalcustodyofamember’schildorchildrenwhoispaidanadditionalamountforeachofthemember’schildrenbecauseoftheamendmentstothissectionenactedatthe1965or1967RegularSessionshallreceivethosepaymentsastheyaccruefromandafterOctober1oftheyearduringwhichthissectionwasamendedtoprovideforthepaymenttohimorherofthatallowance,butthesurvivingspouseorotherpersonshallnotbegivenaclaimforanyincreaseinthosebenefitsforatimepriortothatdate.

(g)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthissection,thebenefitsotherwisepayabletothechildrenofthemembershallbepaidtothosechildrenthroughtheageof21yearsifthe

Article12,§31787.-§31787.5. 306

childrenremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard.

(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.497(SB2008),Sec.4)(AmendedbyStats.2002,Ch.1152(AB2023),Sec.13)

§31787.6. Special death benefit; spouse of safety member; application of sectionAsurvivingspouseofasafetymemberwhoiskilledintheperformanceofdutyor

whodiesastheresultofanaccidentorinjurycausedbyexternalviolenceorphysicalforce,incurredintheperformanceofhisorherduty,shallbepaidthefollowingamountinadditiontoallotherbenefitsprovidedbythischapter:Aone-timelump-sumbenefitequaltoanamount,providedfromcontributionsbythecountyordistrict,equaltotheannualcompensationearnablebythedeceasedathisorhermonthlyrateofcompensationatthetimeofhisorherdeath.ThissectionisnotapplicabletomembersdescribedinSection31469.2.


§31787.65. (Operative date contingent) Optional death allowance; eligible surviving spouse and children; increases linked to job classification (San Bernardino)(a)ForpurposesofSection31787,thefinalcompensationuponwhichthespecialdeath

benefitiscalculatedfortheeligiblesurvivingspouseoreligiblechildrenofasafetymemberkilledintheperformanceofhisorherdutyshallbeincreasedatanytimetheincreaseiseffectiveandtotheextentthecompensationisincreasedforthen-activemembersemployedinthejobclassificationandmembershipcategorythatwasapplicabletothedeceasedmemberatthetimeoftheinjury,ortheonsetofthedisease,causingdeath.Thedeceasedmember’sfinalcompensationshallbedeemedtobesubjecttofurtherincreaseshereunderonlyuntiltheearlierof(1)thedeathofthesurvivingspouseoreligiblechildrenor(2)thedatethatthedeceasedmemberwouldhaveattainedtheageof50years.

(b)Thissectionappliesonlytoacountyoftheseventhclass,asdefinedbySections28020and28028,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andshallnotbeoperativeuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolution,makesthissectionapplicableinthecounty.Aresolutiontomakethissectionoperativeinthecountyshallspecifywhethertheseprovisionsapplyretroactivelyorprospectivelyonly.


§31789. Specific amount from county or district contributions; amountUponthedeathofanypersonafterretirementandwhilereceivingaretirement

allowancefromthissystem,oranysupersededsystem,thereshallbepaidtohisestateortosuchbeneficiaryasheshallnominatebywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard,thesumofsevenhundredfiftydollars($750)tobeprovidedfromcontributionsofthecountyordistrict.

Thissectionappliestoeverymemberwhodiesafterthissectionbecomesoperativewhetherhehasretiredbeforeoraftertheoperativedateoreffectivedateofthissection.



§31789.01. Contra Costa County; specific amount from county or district; offset by federal payment (Contra Costa)NotwithstandingSections31786,31787,and31787.5,uponthedeath,afterretirement

and while receiving a retirement allowance from this system, of any person who was covered

Article12,§31787.5.-§31789.01.307

underSection31751,thereshallbepaidtothemember’sestate,ortosuchbeneficiaryasthemembershallnominatebywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard,thesumoftwothousanddollars($2,000)tobeprovidedfromcontributionsofthecountyordistrict,offsetbyanylump-sumdeathpaymentmadeunderthefederalSocialSecurityAct.


§31789.1. Specific benefit from county surplus earningsUponthedeathofanymemberafterretirementandwhilereceivingaretirement

allowancefromthissystem,oranysupersededsystem,thereshallbepaidtohisestateortosuchbeneficiaryasheshallnominatebywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard,thesumofsevenhundredfiftydollars($750).


OnlyonedeathbenefitpaymentshallbepaidunderthissectionorunderSection31789,andshallbepaidbythesystemsubjecttoSection31789andthissectionwherethememberrenderedhislastactiveservice.

Thissectionshallnotbecomeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofretirementdeterminesthatitsbenefitsmaybefinancedfromsurplusearningsoftheretirementfund.Uponthisdeterminationbytheretirementboard,theprovisionsofthissectionshallbecomeoperative.

Uponadoptionbyanycountyprovidingbenefitspursuanttothissection,ofArticle5.5(commencingwithSection315101)ofthischapter,theboardofretirementshall,instead,paythosebenefitsfromtheSupplementalRetireeBenefitsReserveestablishedpursuanttoSection31510.8.2

(AmendedbyStats.1983,Ch.886,Sec.8)1Renumbered.SeeSection31610etseq.2RenumberedSection31618.

§31789.12. Benefit from county surplus earnings; increase; alternative payment from supplemental retiree benefits reserveNotwithstandingSection31789.1,theboardmayincreasethesumpayablepursuantto

Section31789.1toonethousanddollars($1,000).Uponadoptionbyanycountyprovidingbenefitspursuanttothissection,ofArticle5.5

(commencingwithSection31610)ofthischapter,theboardofretirementshall,instead,paythosebenefitsfromtheSupplementalRetireeBenefitsReserveestablishedpursuanttoSection31618.


§31789.13. Death of persons while receiving retirement allowances; supplemental benefits; maximumUponthedeathofanypersonwhilereceivingaretirementallowancefromthesystem,

theboardofretirementmaysupplementthesumpayablepursuanttoSection31789byanamountoftwohundredfiftydollars($250)fromthesurplusearningsestablishedpursuanttoSection31592.2.

Thissectionappliestoeveryretireewhodiesafterthissectionbecomesoperativewhetherretiredbeforeoraftertheoperativedateofthissection.

ThissectionshallnotbecomeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofretirementdeterminesthatthissupplementalbenefitcanbefinancedfromthesurplusearningsestablishedpursuanttoSection31592.2whichexceed1percentofthetotalassetsoftheretirementsystem.

Article12,§31789.01.-§31789.13. 308

ThetotalofthedeathbenefitspaidpursuanttoSection31789andthissectionshallnotexceedonethousanddollars($1,000).ThedeathbenefitspayablepursuanttoSection31789andthissectionshallbepaidonlybythesystemwhichissubjecttoSection31789andthissectionandinwhichthememberrenderedhisorherlastservice.


§31789.2. Death benefit; in lieu of payment; payment from contributions and surplus earningsUponthedeathofanypersonafterretirementandwhilereceivingaretirement

allowancefromthissystem,oranysupersededsystem,thereshallbepaidtohisestate,ortosuchbeneficiaryasheshallnominatebywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard,thesumofsevenhundredfiftydollars($750).


ThedeathbenefitprovidedbythissectionshallbepaidinlieuofapaymentunderSection31789or31789.1andmaybepaidinpart,fromcontributionsofthecountyordistrictinaccordancewithSection31789,andinpart,fromsurplusearningsoftheretirementsysteminaccordancewithSection31789.1.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinsuchcountyanduntilsuchtimeastheboardofretirement,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,determinesthatitsportionofthebenefitsmaybefinancedfromsurplusearningsoftheretirementfund.

Uponadoptionbyanycountyprovidingbenefitspursuanttothissection,ofArticle5.5(commencingwithSection315101)ofthischapter,onlythatportionofthosebenefitswhichispaidfromsurplusearningsdescribedinSection31592.2shallbepaid,instead,fromtheSupplementalRetireeBenefitsReserveestablishedpursuanttoSection31510.8.2

(AmendedbyStats.1983,Ch.886,Sec.9)1Renumbered.SeeSection31610etseq.2RenumberedSection31618.

§31789.3. Death of person receiving retirement allowance; death benefit to designees; operation and application of section(a)Uponthedeathofanypersonafterretirementandwhilereceivingaretirement

allowancefromthissystem,oranysupersededsystem,thereshallbepaidtohisorherestateortothebeneficiaryasheorsheshallnominatebywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard,anamountdeterminedbytheboardofsupervisorstobeprovidedfromcontributionsofthecountyordistrict.Theboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,fixanddetermineanamountthatshallnotexceedfivethousanddollars($5,000).

(b)Thissectionappliestoeverymemberwhodiesafterthissectionbecomesoperativewhetherheorshehasretiredbeforeoraftertheoperativedateoreffectivedateofthissection.

(c)ThedeathbenefitprovidedbythissectionshallbepaidinlieuofapaymentunderSection31789or31789.1.

(d)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthissectionapplicableinthecounty.


§31789.5. Death of person while receiving retirement allowance; operation and application(a)Uponthedeathofanypersonafterretirementandwhilereceivingaretirement

Article12,§31789.13.-§31789.5.309

allowancefromthissystem,oranysupersededsystem,thereshallbepaidtohisorherestate,ortothebeneficiaryasheorsheshallnominatebywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard,anamountdeterminedbytheboardofsupervisors.Theboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,fixanddetermineanamountthatmaynotexceedfivethousanddollars($5,000).

(b)Thissectionappliestoeverymemberwhodiesafterthissectionbecomesoperativewhetherheorshehasretiredbeforeoraftertheoperativedateoreffectivedateofthissection.

(c)ThedeathbenefitprovidedbythissectionshallbepaidinlieuofapaymentunderSection31789or31789.1andmaybepaidinpart,fromcontributionsofthecountyordistrictinaccordancewithSection31789,andinpart,fromsurplusearningsoftheretirementsysteminaccordancewithSection31789.1.

(d)Thedeathbenefitprovidedbythissectionmay,attheelectionoftheboardofretirement,beprovidedthroughagrouplifeinsurancepolicyifthecostofthatpolicytothesystem is the same or less than the cost to the system, county, or district of other methods of providingthebenefit.

(e)Thissectionmaynotbeoperativeinanycountyuntiltheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionapplicableinthecountyandtheboardofretirement,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,determinesthatitsportionofthecostofthebenefitsmaybefinancedfromsurplusearningsoftheretirementfund.

(f)Uponadoption,byanycountyprovidingbenefitspursuanttothissection,ofArticle5.5(commencingwithSection31610),onlythatportionofthosebenefitsthatispaidfromsurplusearningsdescribedinSection31592.2shallbepaid,instead,fromtheSupplementalRetireeBenefitsReserveestablishedpursuanttoSection31618.


§31790. Death before retirement; allowance to estate or beneficiaryUponthedeathofanypersonbeforeretirementwhichpersonshallhavetohiscreditat

least10yearsofservicewiththecountyordistrict,thereshallbepaidtohisestateortosuchbeneficiaryasheshallnominatebywrittendesignationdulyexecutedandfiledwiththeboard,thesumofsevenhundredfiftydollars($750)tobeprovidedfromthecontributionsofthecountyordistrict.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionshereofapplicabletothecounty.


§31791. Increase in maximum age of eligible children; unmarried, enrolled, full-time students to age 23; payments to legally incompetent children regardless of age (Los Angeles)NotwithstandingSection31760.1,31765.1,31781.1,31781.2,31785,31786,31787, or

31787.5,theboardofsupervisorsofacountyofthefirstclassasdescribedbySections28020and28022may,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvoteandwithrespecttothedeathbenefitpayablepursuanttoany,all,oranycombinationof,thosesections,takeanyorallofthefollowing actions:

(a)Increasethemaximumageforeligiblechildrenwhoremainunmarriedandareregularlyenrolledasfull-timestudentsinanaccreditedschoolasdeterminedbytheboard,totheageof23years.

(b)Provideforpaymentofthedeathbenefittoanysurvivingchildrenforsuchperiodasthosechildrenremainlegallyincompetenttoactasadultsregardlessofage.


Article12,§31789.5.-§31791. 310

§31792. Increase of amounts payable; authority of board; application to counties of the first class (Los Angeles)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischaptertothecontrary,theboardmay,by

aresolutionadopted,pursuanttoboththissectionandSection31768,byamajorityvoteandwithrespectonlytopersonswhofirstbecomemembersonoraftertheeffectivedateoftheresolution, act as follows:

(a)Electtoincrease,by33percent,theamountspayablepursuanttoanyoneormoreofSections31781.1,31785,and31785.1.

(b)Electtodecrease,by20percent,theamountspayablepursuanttoanyoneormoreofSections31786,31786.1,and31787.

Thissectionshallapplyonlytoacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961.


Article 13Integration with Old Age and Survivors Insurance


§31800. Applicability; resolution of governing board; approval by eligible members; referendum(a)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(b),theprovisionsofthisarticleshallbeapplicable

toanymemberwhoissubjecttothefederaloldageandsurvivorsinsuranceprovisionsofthefederalSocialSecurityAct,whenthegoverningboardofthecountyordistrictinwhichthememberisemployedadoptsbymajorityvotearesolutionprovidingthatthisarticleshallbeapplicabletoallmembersinsuchcountyordistrictwhoaresubjecttothefederalsystem.Theprovisionsofthisarticleshallbecomefullyeffectiveandoperativeonthedatespecifiedinsuchresolution;provided,however,suchresolutionshallhavereceivedpriorapprovalbymajorityaffirmativevoteofeligiblemembersemployedbythecountyordistrictinareferendumconductedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofArticle2ofChapter2ofPart4ofDivision5ofTitle2ofthiscode.Nothinginthisarticleshallbeconstruedasnegatingorinanywayaffectingthevalidityofareferendumvoteconductedpriortotheenactmentofthisarticle,wherebyamajorityofmembersemployedbyacountyordistrictvotedinfavoroffederaloldageandsurvivorsinsurancecoverageonapurelyadditiveorsupplementalbasis.

(b)Notwithstandingsubdivision(a),thisarticleshallnotbeappliedtoanymemberortotheservice,contributions,orbenefitsofanymemberthat,onorafterJanuary1,2013,issubjecttotheprovisionsoftheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013.NothinghereinshallprecludeamemberwhoissubjecttotheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013andwhosepositionisincludedinanagreementbetweenthestate and federal government for coverage under the old age and survivors insurance provisionsofthefederalSocialSecurityActfromalsobeingsubjecttothatfederalsystemasasupplementationsystemunderwhichthesocialsecuritybenefitsshallbeinadditiontounintegratedretirementbenefits.

(AddedbyStats.1957,Ch.663,Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.528(SB13),Sec.18,EffectiveOctober4,2013,asan

urgency statute )

Article12,§31792.-Article13,§31800.311

§31800.1. San Mateo County; general or safety members; optional calculation of retirement allowance (San Mateo)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsoflaw,theboardofsupervisorsinacountyofthe

10thclassasdescribedbySections28031mayadopt,bymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthat:

(a)Anygeneralmemberemployedbythecountyoranydistrictincludedwithinthemembershipofthecountyretirementassociationshallhavetheoption,atanytimepriorto retirement, of having his retirement allowance for service rendered after the date of his exercisingthisoptioncalculatedtoequalthefollowing:

(1)Thefractionofone-ninetiethofthefirstonethousandfiftydollars($1,050)monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.1inthecolumnapplicabletothemember’sageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedtherein.

(2)Thefractionofone-sixtiethofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.1inthecolumnapplicabletothemember’sageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice.

Theretirementallowancepayableforservicerenderedpriortothedateofthemember’selectionshallbecomputedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31676.1.Theretirementallowancepayableforserviceperformedaftertheeffectivedateofthemember’selectionshallequalthetotalofparagraphs(1)and(2)ofthissubdivision.

Anymemberwhoelectstohavehisretirementallowancesocalculatedshallhavethedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462orSection31462.2,whicheverisapplicable,appliedatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundertheprovisionsofSection31462.1.

(b)Anysafetymemberemployedbythecountyoranydistrictincludedwithinthemembershipofthecountyretirementassociationshallhavetheoption,atanytimepriorto retirement, of having his retirement allowance for service rendered after the date of his exercisingthisoptioncalculatedtoequalthefollowing:

(1)Thefractionofoneseventy-fifthofthefirstonethousandfiftydollars($1,050)monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31664inthecolumnapplicabletothemember’sageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedtherein.

(2)Thefractionofone-fiftiethofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31664inthecolumnapplicabletothemember’sageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice.

Theretirementallowancepayableforservicerenderedpriortothedateofthesafetymember’selectionshallbecomputedinaccordancewithprovisionsofSection31664.Theretirementallowancepayableforserviceperformedaftertheeffectivedateofthesafetymember’selectionshallequalthetotalofparagraphs(1)and(2)ofthissubdivision.

Anysafetymemberwhoelectstohavehisretirementallowancesocalculatedshallhavethedefinitionof“finalcompensation”inSection31462orSection31462.2,whicheverisapplicable,appliedatthedateofretirementregardlessofpreviousserviceundertheprovisionsofSection31462.1.

(c)Beforepermittingamembertoexercisetheoptionauthorizedbythissection,theboardofsupervisorsshallprovidethatmemberwithawrittenexplanationoftheeffectonthe

Article13,§31800.1. 312

member’sretirementbenefitsandcontributionsofexercisingthatoption.Nomembermayrescindhisactionafterexercisingtheoptionauthorizedinthissection.

(d)Anymemberwhoelectsdeferredretirementafterbecomingsubjecttotheprovisionsofthissectionshallreceivearetirementallowancedeterminedinaccordancewithsubdivision(a)orsubdivision(b)ofthissection.

(e)AnymemberwhoexercisestheoptionauthorizedinthissectionshallcontinuetocontributeasprovidedforinArticle6(commencingwithSection31620)orArticle6.8(commencingwithSection31639),ofthischapter,whicheverisapplicable,alesseramountasdeterminedbyanactuary.

(f)AnymemberwhoexercisestheoptionauthorizedinthissectionandwhoisalsoeligibleandelectsorhaselectedtoreceivecreditintheretirementsystemforpublicserviceasprovidedinSection31641.1shallhavetheretirementallowanceforsuchpublicservicecalculatedasifhehadnotexercisedtheoptionauthorizedinthissection.

(g)AnymemberwhoexercisestheoptionauthorizedinthissectionandwhoisalsoeligibleandelectstoreceivethebenefitsofSection31641.5,31652,or31831.1shallhavetheretirementallowanceforthatservicecalculatedinaccordancewithsubdivisions(a)or(b)ofthissection.

Forthepurposesofthissection,allcontributions,liabilities,actuarialinterestrates,andothervaluationfactorsshallbedeterminedonthebasisofactuarialassumptionsandmethodswhich,intheaggregate,arereasonableandwhich,incombination,offertheactuary’sbestestimateofanticipatedexperienceunderthesystem.

Anyadditionalemployercontributionsrequiredunderthissectionshallbecomputedasalevelpercentageofmembercompensation.Theadditionalcontributionraterequiredatthetimethissectionisadoptedshallnotbelessthanthesumof(1)theactuarialnormalcost,plus(2)theadditionalcontributionrequiredtoamortizetheincreaseinaccruedliabilityattributabletobenefitselectedunderthissectionoveraperiodofnotmorethan30yearsfromthedatethissectionbecomeseffectiveinthepublicagency’scontract.


§31800.5. Integration as to members employed by county or district; conversion to supplementation systemWhenever pursuant to the provisions of this article federal old age and survivors

insuranceprovisionsoftheSocialSecurityActhavebeenintegratedastomembersemployedbyacountyordistrict,therelationshipmaybeconvertedtoasupplementationsystemunderwhichthesocialsecuritybenefitsshallbeinadditiontounintegratedretirementbenefits.Theconversionshalltakeplacewhenthegoverningbodyofthecountyordistrictadoptsbymajorityvote,aresolutionprovidingthattheconversionshalltakeplace;provided,however,theresolutionshallhavereceivedpriorapprovalbymajorityaffirmativevoteofeligiblemembersemployedbythecountyordistrictinareferendumconductedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofArticle2(commencingwithSection22300),Chapter2,Part4,Division5ofTitle2ofthiscode.Theconversionshalltakeplaceandbecomefullyeffectiveandoperativeonthedatespecifiedintheresolution.

IntheeventthattheemployeesofthecountyordistrictaredividedintomorethanonecoveragegroupforpurposesoftheSocialSecurityAct,theconversionmaybewithrespecttoallcoveragegroupsoroneormorecoveragegroupsasthegoverningboardmaydetermineintheresolution.


Article13,§31800.1.-§31800.5.313

§31801. Legislative intent; supersedure of inconsistent provisions; extension of federal system to policeman’s and fireman’s positionItistheintentoftheLegislaturethattheenactmentofthisarticleshallauthorizepersons

inpositionscoveredbyaretirementsystempursuanttothischaptertoparticipateinthefederaloldageandsurvivorsinsuranceprovisionsoftheSocialSecurityActwithoutjeopardizingthecontinuedmaintenanceoftheirlocalsystem.

To this end and notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, the provisions ofthisarticle,whenmadeapplicablebyresolutionofthegoverningboard,shallsupersedeormodifyanyinconsistentprovisioninthischapterinitsapplicationtoeverymemberwhosepositionisincludedinanagreementbetweenthestateandfederalgovernmentforcoverageundertheoldageandsurvivorsinsuranceprovisionsoftheSocialSecurityAct.

Theprovisionsofthischapterarenotrepealedbythisarticle,however,andexceptassupersededormodifiedbythisarticleintheirapplicationtomemberswhoarecoveredbyoldageandsurvivorsinsurance,theyshallcontinuetobefullyeffectiveandoperative.

Nothinginthisarticleshallauthorizetheextensionofthefederalsystemtoserviceinanypoliceman’sorfireman’spositioncoveredbyaseparateretirementsystemunlessallofthepolicemenorfiremenareincludedasaunitwithoutanydivisionoftheirseparateretirementsystem.

Whenfederalbenefitsaretobeextendedbyanyfireman’sorpoliceman’spositionpursuanttothisparttheyshallvoteseparatelyfromothermembersofsuchsysteminallcaseswithoutregardtotheirclassificationasmiscellaneousmembersorotherwise,andnotwithstandingSection22009.1,suchsystemshallconstituteaseparateretirementsystemwithrespecttothepositionsofpolicemenorfiremen,orboth,coveredbythesystem.


§31802. Federal agency defined“Federalagency”meanstheSecretaryofHealth,EducationandWelfare,orthe

predecessororsuccessorinfunctionstosuchofficer.(AddedbyStats.1957,Ch.663,Sec.1,EffectiveMay31,1957)

§31803. Federal system defined“Federalsystem”meanstheoldageandsurvivorsinsuranceprovisionsoftheSocial

SecurityAct.(AddedbyStats.1957,Ch.663,Sec.1,EffectiveMay31,1957)

§31804. Reference to federal law as including amendmentsWhenever reference is made to any federal law or regulation or part thereof, the

referenceappliestoallamendmentsandadditionsnoworhereaftermadetosuchlaw.(AddedbyStats.1957,Ch.663,Sec.1,EffectiveMay31,1957)

§31805.1. Recalculation of benefitsEffective with the approval of this section the service retirement allowances of those

heretoforeretiredshallberecalculatedasthoughSection31805hadnotbeenenacted.(AmendedbyStats.1980,Ch.676,Sec.117)

§31806. Inapplicability of compulsory retirement provisions to certain members; retirement upon qualifying for federal benefitsTheprovisionsofthischapterrequiringretirementatage65or70,whicheverapplies,

shallnotbeapplicabletoanypersonwhoisamemberontheeffectivedateofthisarticlewhen

Article13,§31801.-§31806. 314

theapplicationofsuchprovisionwouldprecludethememberfromqualifyingforfederalbenefits,butsuchmembershallberetiredforthwith,asprovidedinSection31671orSection31671.011,uponqualifyingforsuchfederalbenefits.

(AmendedbyStats.1967,Ch.1155,Sec.4)1Bothrepealed.See,now,Section31671.05formandatoryretirementprovisions.

§31807. Minimum retirement allowancesTheretirementallowancepayableunderSection31808,Section31808.1orSection318091

ofthiscode,whicheverisapplicable,toapersonwhowasamemberontheeffectivedateofthis article in any county pursuant to this article if not fully insured for old age payments under thefederalsystemattimeofretirementshallbenotlessthanthatamountforwhichhewouldhavebeeneligibleifthisarticlewerenotapplicabletothemember.

TheretirementallowancepayableunderSection31808,Section31808.1orSection318091 ofthiscode,whicheverisapplicable,toapersonwhowasamemberontheeffectivedateofthis article in any county pursuant to this article if fully insured for old age payments under the federalsystemattimeofretirementshallnotbelessthananamountwhich,whenaddedtotheprimaryinsuranceamountpayabletohimunderthefederalsystemattimeofretirementwillequaltheallowancewhichwouldotherwisebepayabletothememberundertheprovisionsofthischapterifthisarticlewerenotapplicabletothemember.IfthememberretiresforservicepriortoretirementageunderthefederalsystemandtheamountavailabletohimundertheprovisionsofSection31810islessthantheallowancewhichwouldotherwisebepayabletothememberundertheprovisionsofthischapterifthisarticlewerenotapplicabletothememberthentheallowanceshallbeincreasedtoanamountnotlessthanthatwhichwouldotherwisebepayable.

(AmendedbyStats.1961,Ch.987,Sec.2)1Repealed

§31808. Retirement allowance in certain counties; prior service; current service; computation of benefits(a)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(c),inanycountyordistrictsubjecttothe

provisionsofSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.13,or31676.14,theretirementallowancepayablefor retirement service rendered prior to the effective date of the resolution mentioned in Section31800shallbecomputedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.13,or31676.14,whicheverisapplicable.Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(b),theretirementallowancewithrespecttoserviceperformedafterMay31,1957,shallequalthetotalof the following:

(1)Thefractionofone-ninetiethofthefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.13,or31676.14,whicheverisapplicable,inthecolumnapplicabletothemember’sageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedtherein.

(2)Thefractionofone-sixtiethofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.13,or31676.14,whicheverisapplicable,inthecolumnapplicabletothemember’sageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice.

(b)Withrespecttopersonswhobecomemembersofacountyretirementsystemaftertheeffectivedateoftheamendmentstothissectionenactedatthe1979–80RegularSession,theretirementallowanceshallequalthefollowing:

(1)Thefractionofone-ninetiethofthefirstonethousandfiftydollars($1,050)

Article13,§31806.-§31808.315

monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.13,or31676.14,whicheverisapplicable,inthecolumnapplicabletothemember’sageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedtherein.

(2)Thefractionofone-sixtiethofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.1,31676.11,31676.13,or31676.14,whicheverisapplicable,inthecolumnapplicabletothemember’sageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice.

(3)Thissubdivisionmaybemadeapplicableinanycountyofoversixmillionpopulationonthefirstdayofthemonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsofsuchcountyadoptsbymajorityvotearesolutionprovidingthatthissubdivisionshallbecomeapplicableinsuchcounty.

(c)ThissectionshallnotapplytotheretirementallowanceofapersonwhobecomesamemberofacountyretirementsystemunderabenefitplanestablishedpursuanttoSection7522.20or7522.25.

(AmendedbyStats.1979,Ch.21,Sec.1,EffectiveApril5,1979)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.528(SB13),Sec.19,EffectiveOctober4,2013,asan

urgency statute)

§31808.1. Retirement allowance in certain counties; law enforcement members; prior service; current service; computation of benefitsInanycountyordistrictsubjecttotheprovisionsofSection31676.1,andtowhichthe

provisionsofSection31470.6areapplicable,theretirementallowanceforanymemberwhoseprincipaldutiesconsistofactivelawenforcementasdefinedinSection31470.6,andSection31469.3andthosemadeeligibletosafetymembershipbySection31469.4oftheGovernmentCodeforservicerenderedpriortotheeffectivedateoftheresolutionprovidedinSection31800shallbecomputedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31664.Theretirementallowanceofanysuchmemberwithrespecttoserviceperformedaftertheeffectivedateoftheresolutionshallequalthetotalofthefollowing:

(a)Thefractionofoneseventy-fifthofthefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31664inthecolumnapplicabletohisageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedtherein.

(b)Thefractionofone-fiftiethofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31664inthecolumnapplicabletohisageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice.


§31808.2. Computation for service between effective date of article or resolution and date of return to active membershipNotwithstandingtheprovisionsofSection31808and31808.1,theretirementallowance

withrespecttoserviceperformedaftertheeffectivedateofthisarticleforallowancessubjecttoSection31808andaftertheeffectivedateoftheresolutiondescribedinSection31808.1shallbecomputedonthebasisofSection31676.1fortheservice,notsubjecttobenefitsunderthefederalsystem,betweentheeffectivedateofthisarticleorresolution,assuchdatesaresetforthinSections31808and31808.1andthedateofreturntoactivemembershipofmemberswhoseparatedfromemploymentinanycountysubsequentlytotheaforesaiddatesandwhoreturnedtotheserviceofthesamecounty.


Article13,§31808.-§31808.2. 316

§31808.5. Retirement allowance for safety members in certain counties; compensationInanycountywhichhassafetymembersasdefinedinSections31470.2and31470.4

subject,priortoJanuary1,1962,totheprovisionsofthisarticle,theboardofsupervisorsmayadopttheprovisionsofthissection.

TheretirementallowanceforanysafetymembersubjecttothisarticleforservicerenderedpriortothedateofadoptionofthisarticlebyacountyboardofsupervisorsshallbecomputedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31664.Theretirementallowanceofanysuchmember,subjecttothisarticle,withrespecttoserviceperformedaftertheeffectivedateofadoptionbythecountyofthisarticleshallequaltothetotalofthefollowing:

(a)Thefractionofoneseventy-fifthofthefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableprovidedforinSection31664inthecolumnapplicabletohisageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedtherein.

(b)Thefractionofone-fiftiethofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31664inthecolumnapplicabletohisageatretirementtakentotheprecedingquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice.

TheretirementallowanceforanysafetymemberwhoisnotsubjecttothisarticleshallbecomputedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31664.

Anymemberwhobecomesasafetymemberaftertheadoptiondateofthissectionshallbesubjecttotheprovisionsofthisarticle.

Thissectionshallnotapplytoanysafetymemberwhoisamemberondateofadoptionofthissectionunlesswithin60daysthereafterhefileswiththeboardasignedwrittenstatementexpressinghisdesiretohavethesectionapplytohim.

AnymembersubjecttotheprovisionsofthissectionmayelectdeferredretirementpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700)ofthischapter.


§31808.6. Retirement allowance for safety members in certain counties; computation(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,inanycountyordistrictfirstsubject

totheprovisionsofSection31676.1or31695.1onorafterJuly1,1969,havingmembersperformingthedutiesofsafetymembersasdefinedinSections31470.2and31470.4,iftheboardofsupervisorsadoptsthissectionandastothosemembersadoptsorhasalreadyadoptedtheprovisionsofthisarticle,thentheretirementallowanceofthosesafetymembersshallbecomputedaccordingtotheapplicableprovisionsofthissubdivision,asselectedbytheboardofsupervisors.

(1)TheretirementallowanceshallbecomputedaccordingtotheprovisionsofSection31664or31664.1,andfederaloldageandsurvivors’insurancecoverageshallbeonanadditiveorsupplementalbasis.

(2)IfSection31664applies,theretirementallowanceshallequalthetotalofbothofthe following:

(A)TheretirementallowanceforservicerenderedpriortotheeffectivedateoftheresolutionspecifiedinSection31800shallbecomputedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31664.

(B)Theretirementallowanceforserviceperformedaftertheeffectivedateoftheresolutionshallequalthetotalofbothofthefollowing:

(i)Thefractionofoneseventy-fifthofthefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31664inthecolumnapplicabletohisorherageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarter

Article13,§31808.5.-§31808.6.317

yearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedinthatsection.(ii)Thefractionofone-fiftiethofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinal

compensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31664inthecolumnapplicabletohisorherageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice.

(3)IfSection31664.1applies,theretirementallowanceshallequalthetotalofbothofthe following:

(A)TheretirementallowanceforservicerenderedpriortotheeffectivedateoftheresolutionspecifiedinSection31800shallbecomputedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31664.1.

(B)Theretirementallowanceforservicerenderedaftertheeffectivedateoftheresolutionsshallequalthetotalofbothofthefollowing:

(i)Thefractionofoneseventy-fifthofthefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31664.1inthecolumnapplicabletohisorherageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedinthatsection.

(ii)Threepercentofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31664.1inthecolumnapplicabletohisorherageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice.

(b)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,incountieswhichhaveadoptedtheprovisions of this section and have voted to apply the provisions of this chapter relating tosafetymembersasprovidedbySection31695.1,theretirementbenefitsaswellasthecontributionsofeligiblememberssubjecttothisarticlewhodonotelectpursuanttoSection31695.2tocomeunderthesafetymemberprovisionsofthischapter,shallbethesameastheretirementbenefitsandcontributionsofmembersotherthansafetymembersinthecounty.

(c)TheretirementallowanceforanysafetymemberwhoisnotsubjecttothisarticleshallbecomputedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31664.

(d)Anymemberwhobecomesasafetymemberaftertheeffectivedateoftheselectionofthemethodofcomputingtheretirementallowancebytheboardofsupervisorsshallbesubjecttothatselectionandtotheprovisionsofthisarticle.

(e)Anymembersubjecttotheselectiondescribedinsubdivision(d)madebytheboardofsupervisorsmayelectdeferredretirementpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700).


§31808.7. Retirement allowance in counties or districts subject to Section 31676.12; computationInanycountyordistrict,subjecttoSection31676.12,whichadoptsorhasalready

adoptedtheprovisionsofthisarticle,theretirementallowanceofmemberssubjecttoSection31676.12shallbecomputedaccordingtoeithertheprovisionsofsubdivision(a)orsubdivision(b)ofthissectionasselectedbytheboardofsupervisors.

(a) The retirement allowance for service rendered prior to the effective date of this article asspecifiedintheresolutionmentionedinSection31800shallbecomputedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31676.12.TheretirementallowanceofanymemberwithrespecttoserviceperformedaftertheeffectivedateofthisarticleasspecifiedintheresolutionmentionedinSection31800shallequalthetotalofthefollowing:

(1)Thefractionofoneseventy-fifthofthefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.12

Article13,§31808.6.-§31808.7. 318

inthecolumnapplicabletohisageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedtherein.

(2)Thefractionofone-fiftiethofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.12inthecolumnapplicabletohisageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice,or

(b)TheretirementallowanceshallbecomputedaccordingtotheprovisionsofSection31676.12andfederaloldageandsurvivors’insurancecoverageshallbeonanadditiveorsupplementalbasis.


§31808.8. San Diego County; alternative benefit formulas; resolution (San Diego)Theboardofsupervisorsofacountyofthethirdclassmay,bymajorityvote,adopta

resolutionprovidingeitherorbothofthefollowing:(a)Thatsubdivision(b)ofSection31808isapplicabletopersonswhobecomemembers

of the county retirement system after the effective date designated in the resolution and that personswhoweresubjecttosubdivision(a)ofSection31808priortothatdatemayelecttohave their retirement allowance for services rendered after that date computed in accordance withsubdivision(b)ofSection31808.

(b)Thatanemployeewhoissubjecttosubdivision(a)ofSection31808.7mayelecttohave his retirement allowance computed, with respect to service rendered after the effective date designated in the resolution, in accordance with the following:

(1)Thefractionofoneseventy-fifthofthefirstonethousandfiftydollars($1,050)monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.12inthecolumnapplicabletohisageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedtherein.

(2)Thefractionofone-fiftiethofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.12inthecolumnapplicabletohisageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice.


§31808.9. Retirement allowance in counties subject to Section 31676.17, 31676.18, or 31676.19; computation of benefitsInanycountyordistrict,subjecttoSection31676.17,31676.18,or31676.19,thatadoptsor

hasalreadyadoptedtheprovisionsofthisarticle,theretirementallowanceofmemberssubjecttoSection31676.17,31676.18,or31676.19shallbecomputedaccordingtoeithertheprovisionsofsubdivision(a)orsubdivision(b)ofthissectionasselectedbytheboardofsupervisors.

(a) The retirement allowance for service rendered prior to the effective date of this article asspecifiedintheresolutionmentionedinSection31800shallbecomputedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31676.17,31676.18,or31676.19,asapplicable.Theretirement allowanceofanymemberwithrespecttoserviceperformedaftertheeffectivedateofthisarticleasspecifiedintheresolutionmentionedinSection31800shallequalthetotalofthefollowing:

(1)Thefractionofoneseventy-fifthofthefirstthree-hundredfiftydollars($350)monthlyofthemember’sfinalcompensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.17,31676.18,or31676.19,asapplicable,inthecolumnapplicabletohisorherageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableserviceasprovidedtherein.

(2)Thefractionofone-fiftiethofanyremainingportionofthemember’sfinal

Article13,§31808.7.-§31808.9.319

compensationsetforthinthetableappearinginSection31676.17,31676.18,or31676.19,asapplicable,inthecolumnapplicabletohisorherageatretirementtakentotheprecedingcompletedquarteryearmultipliedbythenumberofyearsofcreditableservice.

(b)TheretirementallowanceshallbecomputedaccordingtotheprovisionsofSection31676.17,31676.18,or31676.19,asapplicable,andfederaloldageandsurvivors’insurancecoverageshallbeonanadditiveorsupplementalbasis.


§31810. Retirement before eligibility under federal system; modification of allowance; election; approvalAmemberwhoretiresforservicepriortotheageofbecomingeligibleforretirement

payments under the federal system and who at the time of retiring is fully insured under the federalsystem,may,withtheapprovaloftheRetirementBoard,electtohavehisretirementallowanceincreasedpriortosucheligibleageandreducedaftersuchagebyamountswhichhaveequivalentactuarialvalues.Thismodificationisforthepurposeofcoordinatingamember’sretirementallowancewithbenefitsreceivablefromthefederalsystem.


§31811. Death of member making election; beneficiary’s allowanceIfamemberwhohaselectedtheoptionprovidedinSection31810diesleavinga

beneficiaryentitledtoanallowancebasedupontheallowanceofthemember,thebeneficiary’sallowanceshallbebasedupontheallowancethememberwouldhavereceivedhadhenotelectedtheoption.

(AddedbyStats.1957,Ch.663,Sec.1,EffectiveMay31,1957)

§31812. Members' contributions; exemptions(a)Exceptasprovidedinsubdivision(c),eachmembershallcontinuetocontributeas

providedforinArticle6(commencingwithSection31620)or(incaseofthosemembersdefinedinSections31470.2,31470.4,and31470.6)Article6.8(commencingwithSection31639)ofthischapterlessanamountequaltoone-thirdofthatportionofsuchcontributionwhichispayablewithrespecttothefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthlywage,orincountieswheretheboardofsupervisorspursuanttosubdivision(b)ofSection31808.6electstocomputetheretirementallowanceofsafetymembersaccordingtotheprovisionsofSection31664,eachsafetymembershallmakecontributionsasprovidedforinArticle6.8ofthischapterwithrespecttoallofhisorhermonthlywage.

(b)(1)Withrespecttopersonswhobecomemembersofacountyretirementsystemaftertheeffectivedateoftheamendmentstothissectionenactedatthe1979–80RegularSession,eachmembershallcontributeasprovidedforinArticle6(commencingwithSection31620)or(incaseofthosemembersdefinedinSections31470.2,31470.4,and31470.6)Article6.8(commencingwithSection31639)ofthischapterlessanamountequaltoone-thirdofthatportionofsuchcontributionwhichispayablewithrespecttothefirstonethousandfiftydollars($1,050)monthlywage,orincountieswheretheboardofsupervisorspursuanttosubdivision(b)ofSection31808.6electstocomputetheretirementallowanceofsafetymembersaccordingtotheprovisionsofSection31664,eachsafetymembershallmakecontributionsasprovidedforinArticle6.8ofthischapterwithrespecttoallofhisorhermonthlywage.

(2)Thissubdivisionmaybemadeapplicableinanycountyofoversixmillionpopulationonthefirstdayofthemonthaftertheboardofsupervisorsofsuchcountyadoptsbymajorityvotearesolutionprovidingthatthissubdivisionshallbecomeapplicableinsuchcounty.

Article13,§31808.9.-§31812. 320

(c)ThissectionshallnotapplytotheretirementallowanceofapersonwhobecomesamemberofacountyretirementsystemunderabenefitplanestablishedpursuanttoSection7522.20or7522.25.

(AmendedbyStats.1979,Ch.21,Sec.2,EffectiveApril5,1979)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.528(SB13),Sec.20,EffectiveOctober4,2013,asan

urgency statute)

§31812.1. Members’ contributions; counties or districts subject to Sections 31676.12 and 31808.7EachmembersubjecttoSection31676.12andsubdivision(a)ofSection31808.7shall

continuetocontributeasprovidedforinArticle6(commencingwithSection31620)lessanamountequaltoone-thirdofthatportionofsuchcontributionwhichispayablewithrespecttothefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthlywage,orincountieswheretheboardofsupervisorspursuanttosubdivision(b)ofSection31808.7electstohavetheretirementallowanceofmemberscomputedaccordingtotheprovisionsofSection31676.12,eachmembershallmakecontributionsasprovidedforinSection31621.2withrespecttoallhismonthlywage.


§31813. Federal contributions; simultaneous effective date of article and coverage under federal system; validation of refundsIfthisarticleiseffectivesimultaneouslywiththeeffectivedateofcoverageofmembers

underthefederalsystem,theemployeeandemployerfederalcontributionsrequiredwithrespect to salaries and wages paid for services rendered after the effective date of coverage of suchmemberunderthefederalsystemandpriortothetimethatfederalcontributionsarethefirstdeductedfromthesalariesandwagesofsuchmembersshallbepaid(1)theemployeecontributionbythecountyfromthemember’saccumulatedcontributionstotheextentthatsuchretroactivecostsdonotexceedone-thirdofthatportionofthemember’scontributionsunderthischapterwhichispayablewithrespecttothefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthlywageforsuchretroactiveperiod(2)theemployercontributionsfromcontributionsmadebythecountyordistrictduringsuchretroactiveperiod.

Ifthemember’sfederalcontributionspayableforsuchperiodisgreaterthantheaccumulatedcontributionsresultingfromone-thirdofthatportionofthemember’scontributionsunderthischapterduringsuchperiod,whichispayablewithrespecttothefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthlywage,thedifferenceshallbepaidbythemembertothecountyordistrictinsuchmannerasmaybedeterminedbytheRetirementBoard.

Ifthefederalcontributionspayablebythememberforsuchperiodislessthantheaccumulatedcontributionsresultingformone-thirdofthatportionofthemember’scontributionswhicharepayablewithrespecttothefirstthreehundredfiftydollars($350)monthly wage, pursuant to the provisions of this chapter for such period, the county or district shallrefundtheamountofsuchexcesstothemember.

Allrefundsmadeunderthissectionpriortotheeffectivedateoftheamendmentstothissectionenactedatthe1959RegularSessionoftheLegislatureareherebyvalidatedandconfirmed.


§31814. Federal contributions; article effective subsequent to effective date of coverage under federal systemIfthisarticleiseffectivesubsequenttotheeffectivedateofthecoverageofmembers

Article13,§31812.-§31814.321

underthefederalsystemtheemployees’federalcontributionsrequiredofmemberswithrespect to salary and wages paid for service rendered after the effective date of coverage of suchmemberunderthefederalsystemandpriortothetimethatfederalcontributionsarefirstdeductedfromthesalaryorwageofsuchmembers,shallbepaidtothecountyordistrictbythememberinsuchmannerasmaybedeterminedbytheRetirementBoard.

(AddedbyStats.1957,Ch.663,Sec.1,EffectiveMay31,1957)

§31815. Deferred retirement; determination of allowanceAnymemberwhoelectsdeferredretirementafterbecomingsubjecttotheprovisionof

thisarticleshallreceivearetirementallowancedeterminedinaccordancewithSection31808,31808.1,31808.6,or318091,whicheverisapplicable.

(AmendedbyStats.1969,Ch.767,Sec.5,EffectiveAugust14,1969)1Repealed

§31816. Redeposit of accumulated contributions previously withdrawn; amountIntheeventthatanymemberwhoisrequiredtoorwhohastherighttoelectto

redepositaccumulatedcontributionspreviouslywithdrawn,electssotodo,theamountofsuchredepositshallbetheamountofhispreviouslywithdrawncontributionsadjustedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofSection31813.


§31816.1. Credit for service; modificationIf,aftertheadoptionofthisarticlebyacounty,amemberispermittedbyothersections

ofthisacttoobtaincreditforservicebymakingcontributionsintothissystemforpreviousservice,thatpartofsuchcontributionsapplicabletotheperiodoftimeaftertheadoptionofthisarticlebythecountyshallbemodifiedinaccordancewithSection31812.


§31817. Contra Costa County; inapplicability of article; exception (Contra Costa)ThisarticleshallnotbeapplicabletoanymembersubjecttoSection31751exceptwith

respecttothemember’sservicepriortothedatesuchsectionwasmadeapplicabletothemember.


Article 14Subrogation


§31820. Recovery by board against third party tortfeasor; application of Workmen’s Compensation LawIfbenefitsarepayableunderthischapterbecauseofaninjuryto,orthedeathof,a

memberoftheretirementassociation,andsuchinjuryordeathistheproximateconsequenceoftheactofanypersonotherthanhisemployer,theboardonbehalfoftheretirementassociationmay recover from such person an amount which is the lesser of the following:

(1)Anamountwhichisequaltoone-halfoftheactuarialequivalentofthebenefitsforwhichtheassociationisliablebecauseofsuchinjuryordeath;or

(2)Anamountwhichisequaltoone-halfoftheremainingbalanceoftheamount

Article13,§31814.-Article14,§31820. 322

recovered after allowance of that amount which the employer or its insurance carrier have paid orbecomeobligatedtopay.Therightshallbedeterminedunderthesubrogationprovisionsofanyworkmen’scompensationlaw.


§31821. Joinder of retirement association with employer or insurerTheretirementassociationmayjoinwiththeemployeroritscompensationinsurance

carrierinanyproceedingunderthisarticle.(AddedbyStats.1947,Ch.424,Sec.1)

§31822. Application of amounts recovered from third party tortfeasorAnyamountrecoveredbyanyofthepartiesshallbeapplied,first,totheamountswhich

theemployeroritsinsurancecarrierhavepaidorbecomeobligatedtopay,andsecond,totheamountstowhichtheretirementassociationisentitledundertheprovisionsofSection31820hereof.


§31823. Commencement of actions; time at which liability of retirement system fixedActionsbroughtbytheboardunderthisarticleshallbecommencedwithinthreeyears

aftertheliabilityoftheretirementsystemtopaybenefitsisfixed.Liabilityoftheretirementsystemisfixedatthetimetheboardapprovesthepaymentofbenefitsunderthischapter.


Article 15Reciprocal Benefits


§31830. Legislative intentTheprovisionsofthisarticleareintendedtoencouragecareerpublicservicebygranting

reciprocalretirementbenefitstomemberswhoareentitledtoretirementrightsorbenefitsfromtwoormoreretirementsystemsestablishedunderthischapterorfromaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterandthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,theStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oraretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,andtodelineatethefinancialobligationsofeachsystemandrelatedpoliticalentitysothatnosystemorpoliticalentityshallbeliableformorethanitsjustfinancialobligation.


§31831. Authority to elect deferred retirement; rescission; withdrawal of contributionsAnymember,whetheroverorundertheminimumageofserviceretirement,wholeaves

countyserviceandwithin90daysorsixmonthsifSection31840.4appliesthereafterbecomesamemberofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,aretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,amemberoftheStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oramemberofaretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablished

Article14,§31820.-Article15,§31831.323

reciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,regardlessoftheamountofcountyservice,mayelectdeferredretirementpursuanttoArticle9ofthischapter,exceptthatheorshemaynot,afterthatelection,rescindtheelectionorwithdrawanyofhisorheraccumulatedcontributionswhileamemberofsuchothersystem.


§31831.1. Election by member leaving county service and becoming member of another system to leave contributions on depositAnymemberwholeftcountyordistrictserviceonorbeforeDecember31,1971,and

becameamemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercountyorofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,whodidnotelectto,orwasnoteligibleto,leavehiscontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700)maynowelecttoleavehisaccumulatedcontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700)byredepositingintheretirementfundofthecountyordistricthelefttheamountofaccumulatedcontributionsandinteresthewithdrewfromsuchretirementfundplusregularinterestthereonfromdateofseparation.

AnysuchmemberwhoseaccumulatedcontributionsareondepositasprovidedinthissectionandanyothermemberwholeftcountyordistrictserviceonorbeforeDecember31,1971,whobecameamemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercountyorofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemandwhoelectedtoleavehisaccumulatedcontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700)shallbeeligibleforthebenefitsprovidedinthisarticle,andforpurposesofsuchbenefitsshallbedeemedtohaveenteredmembershipinsuchothersystemwithin90daysofhisseparationfromcountyordistrictemployment.Thedeferredretirementallowanceforsuchmembershallbedeterminedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofthischapterapplicabletomembersretiringdirectlyfromcountyemploymentonthedateofhisretirement.Anymemberwhoqualifiesforareducedageatentrypursuanttothissectionshallbeentitledtousesuchageonlyfromandafter the date he completes the redeposit as provided in this section or, if he elected to leave his accumulatedcontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700),fromandafterthedatehenotifiestheboardinwritingthathedesiresthebenefitsofthissection.ThissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoareretiredorwhoarenotinserviceofanemployermakinghimamemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterorofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem.

Unlessthischapterexpresslyprovidestothecontrarytheretirementallowancereceivedbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbecalculatedbaseduponthelawspertainingtothe retirement system of such district or county as of the date of retirement and not the laws pertainingtosuchsystemasofthedatethememberfirstleftcountyordistrictservice.

ThissectionshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberenteringserviceafterDecember31,1977.


§31831.2. Member leaving service and becoming member in another county or of public employees’ retirement system; election to leave contributions on deposit; redeposit; eligibility for benefits; applicability of sectionAnymemberwholeftcountyordistrictserviceonorbeforeDecember31,1974,and

becameamemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercountyorofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,whodidnotelectto,orwasnoteligibleto,leavehisorhercontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700)

Article15,§31831.-§31831.2. 324

maynowelecttoleavehisorheraccumulatedcontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700)byredepositingintheretirementfundofthecountyordistrictheorshelefttheamountofaccumulatedcontributionsandinterestheorshewithdrewfromtheretirementfundplusregularinterestthereonfromdateofseparation.

AnysuchmemberwhoseaccumulatedcontributionsareondepositasprovidedinthissectionandanyothermemberwholeftcountyordistrictserviceonorbeforeDecember31,1974,whobecameamemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercountyorofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemandwhoelectedtoleavehisorheraccumulatedcontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700)shallbeeligibleforthebenefitsprovidedinthisarticle,andforpurposesofthesebenefitsshallbedeemedtohaveenteredmembershipintheothersystemwithin90days,orsixmonthsifSection31840.4applies,ofhisorherseparationfromcountyordistrictemployment.Thedeferredretirementallowanceforthemembershallbedeterminedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofthischapterapplicabletoamemberretiringdirectlyfromcountyemploymentonthedateofhisorherretirement.Anymemberwhoqualifiesforareducedageatentrypursuanttothissectionshallbeentitledtousethatageonlyfromandafterthedateheorshecompletes the redeposit as provided in this section or, if he or she elected to leave his or her accumulatedcontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700),fromandafterthedateheorshenotifiestheboardinwritingthatheorshedesiresthebenefitsofthissection.ThissectionshallnotapplytomemberswhoareretiredorwhoarenotinserviceofanemployermakinghimorheramemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterorofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem.

Unlessthischapterexpresslyprovidestothecontrarytheretirementallowancereceivedbyamemberpursuanttothissectionshallbecalculatedbaseduponthelawspertainingtothe retirement system of the district or county as of the date of retirement and not the laws pertainingtothesystemasofthedatethememberfirstleftcountyordistrictservice.

ThissectionshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberenteringserviceafterDecember31,1979.

Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthefirstclass,asestablishedbySections28020and28022butshallnotbeoperativeinacountyuntiladoptedbyresolutionoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31831.3. Election to redeposit contributions on deposit for active members of retirement systems; rights of former members; application of section; criteria to determine eligibility of former members(a)NotwithstandingSections31831.1and31831.2,anyformermemberwholeft

countyordistrictserviceandbecameamemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapter in another county or district, or a reciprocal retirement system, or a retirement system establishedunderthePublicEmployees’RetirementLaw,andwhodidnotelectto,orwasnoteligibleto,leavehisorhercontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700),mayelecttoredepositthosecontributionsifheorsheisanactivememberofacountyretirementsystem,thePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,oranotherreciprocalretirementsystematthetimeofredeposit.Aformermembermayexercisethisrightbyredepositing in the retirement fund of the county or district he or she left, the amount of accumulatedcontributionsandinterestthatheorshewithdrewfromthatretirementfundplusregularinterestthereonfromthedateofseparation.

Article15,§31831.2.-§31831.3.325

(b)Aformermemberwhoredepositsunderthissectionshallhavethesamerightsasamemberwhoelectedtoleavehisorheraccumulatedcontributionsondepositinthefund.Thedeferredretirementallowanceofthemembershallbedeterminedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofthischapterapplicabletoamemberretiringdirectlyfromcountyemploymentonthedateofhisorherretirement.

(c)Aformermemberwhoredepositsunderthissectionshallbeentitledtoareducedageatentry,commencingwithcontributionspayablethefirstdayofthemonthfollowingthedatetheassociationreceivesnoticeoftheredeposit,onlytotheextentprovidedinSection31833.

(d) This section does not apply to the following:(1)Amemberorformermemberwhoisretired.(2)Aformermemberwhoisnotintheserviceofanemployermakinghimorhera

memberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercountyordistrict,aretirementsystemestablishedunderthePublicEmployees’RetirementLaw,oranotherreciprocalretirementsystem.

(e) This section shall only apply to either of the following:(1)Aformermemberwhoisintheserviceofanemployerasanofficeroremployee

ofalawenforcementagencyorfiredepartmentwhoseprincipaldutiesconsistofactivelawenforcementorfirefightingandpreventionservice,butexcludingonewhoseprincipaldutiesarethoseofatelephoneoperator,clerk,stenographer,machinist,mechanic,orotherwise,andwhosefunctionsdonotclearlycomewithinthescopeofactivelawenforcementorfirefightingandpreventionservice,eventhoughtheofficeroremployeeissubjecttooccasionalcall,oris occasionally called upon, to perform duties within the scope of active law enforcement or firefightingandpreventionservice.

(2)Aformermemberwhoisintheserviceofanemployerandseekstoredepositcontributionsforpastemploymentasanofficeroremployeeofalawenforcementagencyorfiredepartmentinthissystemwhoseprincipaldutiesconsistedofactivelawenforcementorfirefightingandpreventionservice,butexcludingonewhoseprincipaldutieswerethoseofatelephoneoperator,clerk,stenographer,machinist,mechanic,orotherwise,andwhosefunctionsdidnotclearlycomewithinthescopeofactivelawenforcementorfirefightingandpreventionservice,eventhoughtheofficeroremployeewassubjecttooccasionalcall,orwasoccasionally called upon, to perform duties within the scope of active law enforcement or firefightingandpreventionservice.

(f)Forpurposesofthissection,a“formermember”isamemberwholeftcountyordistrictserviceandwhodidnotelectto,orwasnoteligibleto,leavehisorhercontributionsondepositpursuanttoArticle9(commencingwithSection31700).

(g)Eachretirementsystemshallestablishcriteriatodeterminetheeligibilityofaformermembertoredepositcontributions,andtheamountofcontributionsthatmayberedeposited,pursuant to this section in those cases in which the system no longer maintains complete recordswithrespecttotheformermember.


§31832. Data and information on employee’s statusTheboardshall,onrequestoftheBoardofAdministrationofthePublicEmployees’

RetirementSystem,theboardofretirementofaretirementsystemestablishedinanothercountyunderthischapter,theBoardofRetirementoftheStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,ortheboardofretirementofaretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,supplyinformationanddatanecessaryfortheadministrationofsuchother

Article15,§31831.3.-§31832. 326

systemasitisaffectedbymembershipinandservicecreditedunderthissystem.(AmendedbyStats.1968,Ch.1046,Sec.6)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.966(AB2331),Sec.9)

§31833. Age at entryForthepurposeofthisarticleandArticles6and6.8ofthischapter,ageattimeof

entranceintotheretirementsystemforapersonwhoenterswithin90days,orsixmonthsifSection31840.4applies,oflastrenderingserviceasamemberofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,anotherretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapter,theStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oraretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,andwhoretainshismembershipinsuchothersystemorsystems,shallbehisageatentryintothefirstsuchothersystem.


§31833.1. Member’s age at time of entrance into retirement system; redeposit or contributionsForthepurposeofthisarticleandArticle6(commencingwithSection31620)andArticle

6.8(commencingwithSection31639)ofthischapter,amember’sageatthetimeofentranceintotheretirementsystemforapersonwho,afterentering,redepositsthecontributionsheorshewithdrewfromthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,andwhootherwisemeetsallrequirementsforreciprocityunderthisarticlebyreasonofhisorhermembershipinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,shallbehisorherageatentryintothePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,commencingwiththepayperiodimmediatelyfollowingreceiptofconfirmationfromthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemthatallwithdrawncontributionshavebeenredeposited.


§31834. Time of becoming safety membersNotwithstandingSection31558andregardlessofageatentryintothesystemincounties

subjecttotheprovisionsofSection31676.1andincountieselectingpursuanttoSection31695.1,apersonshallbecomeasafetymemberonthefirstdayofthecalendarmonthfollowinghisentranceintoserviceinapositiontheprincipaldutiesofwhicharedefinedinSections31470.2,31470.4or31470.6,ifsuchfirstdayofthecalendarmonthiswithin90days,orsixmonthsifSection31840.4appliesoflastrenderingactivepoliceorfiresuppressionorlifeguardworkasamemberofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemoraretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,theStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oraretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,andthepersonretainshismembershipinsuchothersystem.


§31835. Average earnable compensation; computation; conditionsTheaveragecompensationduringanyperiodofserviceasamemberofthePublic

Employees’RetirementSystem,amemberoftheJudges’RetirementSystemorJudges’RetirementSystemII,amemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,amemberoftheStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oramemberofaretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywith

Article15,§31832.-§31835.327

thePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,shallbeconsideredcompensationearnableorpensionablecompensationpursuanttoSection7522.34,whicheverisapplicable,byamemberforpurposesofcomputingfinalcompensationforthatmemberprovided:

(a)Theperiodinterveningbetweenactivemembershipsintherespectivesystemsdoesnotexceed90days,or6monthsifSection31840.4applies.Thatperiodshallnotincludeanytimeduringwhichthememberwasprohibitedbylawfrombecomingamemberofthesystemofanothercounty.Notwithstandinganythinginthischaptertothecontrary,the90-dayor6-monthrestrictionreferredtointhissectionoranyotherprovisionofthischapteraffectingdeferredretirementshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberswholeftcountyordistrictservicepriortoOctober1,1949,andsubsequentlyredeposited.

(b)Heorsheretiresconcurrentlyunderbothsystemsandiscreditedwiththeperiodofserviceunderthatothersystematthetimeofretirement.Theprovisionsofthissectionshallbeapplicabletoallmembersandbeneficiariesofthesystem.

(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.966(AB2331),Sec.13)(AmendedbyStats.2001,Ch.433(AB1099),Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.44)

§31835.01. Retroactive extension of benefits; subsequent redeposit of contributionsSection31835shallberetroactivelyappliedsoastoextendthebenefitsthereoftoevery

activeandretiredmemberandbeneficiarywholeftcountyordistrictservicepriortoOctober1,1949,andsubsequentlyredepositedhiscontributionsinthesysteminrespecttoallpaymentsfor time after the effective date of his retirement and prior to the effective date of this section as wellastopaymentsfortimeaftertheeffectivedateofthissection.


§31835.02. Eligibility to retire at age 50; ineligibility to retire from other retirement systems (Alameda County)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthispart,Section31835shallalsoapplytoany

memberwhowasamemberofaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterandwhosubsequentlybecomesamemberofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,aretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,theStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oraretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,providingtheperiodinterveningbetweentheperiodsforwhichactiveservicewascrediteddoesnotexceed90days,orsixmonthsifSection31840.2applies,andthememberretiresconcurrentlyunderbothsystemsandiscreditedwiththeperiodsofserviceatthetimeofretirement.

ThissectionshallonlybeoperativeinanycountyofthefourthclassasdescribedinSections28020and28025ifitisadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.

(AddedbyStats.1998,Ch.116(AB2763),Sec.3)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.966(AB2331),Sec.14)(AmendedbyStats.2001,Ch.159(SB662),Sec.118)

§31835.1. Member eligible to retire at age 50 or required to retire because of age who cannot retire concurrently from Public Employees’ Retirement System or system in another countyNotwithstandingtheprovisionsofSections31835and31836,amemberofaretirement

systemestablishedunderthischapterwhoiseligibletoretireatage50pursuanttoSection

Article15,§31835.-§31835.1. 328

31672,orwhoisrequiredtoretirebecauseofagewhileamemberofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,aretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,theStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oraretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,butwhocannotretireconcurrentlyfromthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,aretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,theStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,oraretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,shallbeentitledtohavehisfinalcompensationandservicedeterminedunderSections31835and31836asifhehadretiredconcurrentlyundersuchothersystem.

(AmendedbyStats.1972,Ch.1344,Sec.2,EffectiveDecember22,1972)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.966(AB2331),Sec.15)

§31836. Service; credit for service“Service,”solelyforpurposesofqualificationforpaymentofbenefitsandretirement

allowances, shall also include service as an employee of the state or a contracting agency under thePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemorofanothercountyhavingaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapter,orasamemberoftheStateTeachers’RetirementSystem,orasamemberofaretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,ifthecompensationforsuchserviceconstitutescompensationearnableorpensionablecompensationpursuanttoSection7522.34,whicheverisapplicable,byamemberunderSection31835ofthispart.Nocreditshallbegrantedinthisretirementsystemforserviceforwhichthememberhasreceivedcreditinanotherretirementsystemorforwhichheorsheispresentlyreceivingaretirementallowancefromanotherretirementsystem.


§31836.1. “Service” defined; operative date“Service,”forthepurposeofqualifyingmembersforthediscontinuanceofcontributions

pursuanttoSection31625.2,shallalsoincludeserviceasanemployeeofthestate,acontractingagencyunderthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,anothercountyhavingaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapter,oranyotherpublicagencyifthecompensationfortheserviceconstitutescompensationearnablebyamemberunderSection31835.

ThissectionshallbecomeoperativeonJanuary1,1988.(Repealed(bySec.1)andaddedbyStats.1982,Ch.202,Sec.2,OperativeJanuary1,

1988,byitsownprovisions)

§31836.2. “Service” defined; 30 year cancellation of contributions for safety members (Los Angeles)(a)“Service,”forthepurposeofqualifyingmembersforthediscontinuanceof

contributionspursuanttoSection31664,31664.1,or31664.2shallalsoincludeserviceasanemployeeofthestate,acontractingagencyunderthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,anothercountyhavingaretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapter,oranyotherpublicagencyifthecompensationfortheserviceconstitutescompensationearnablebyamemberunderSection31835.

(b)Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedbySection

Article15,§31835.1.-§31836.2.329

28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971.(c)Thissectionisdeclaratoryofexistinglaw.(AddedbyStats.2008,Ch.164(AB3044),Sec.12)

§31837. Members leaving accumulated contributions on deposit; eligibility; conditionsAnymemberwhoelects,pursuanttoSection31700and31832,toleavehisaccumulated

contributionsondepositmayberetiredfordisability,regardlessofageorlengthofservice,andreceiveadisabilityretirementallowanceunderthisarticlebasedontheservicecreditedtohimatthetimeofretirementduringanyperiodthereafterinwhichhereceivesadisabilityretirementallowanceunderthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemoraretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,subjecttothefollowingconditions:

(1)Thatsuchallowanceshallnotbepaidiftheperiodinterveningbetweenthelastservicecreditedunderthissystemandhisbecomingamemberinsuchothersystemexceeds90days.

(2)Thatifthememberisretiringfornonservice-connecteddisability,and,ifasafetymemberhasnotattainedage55,orifanonsafetymemberhasnotattainedage65,hisretirementallowanceshallbeascalculatedpursuanttoSection31838.

(3)Thatsuchallowanceshallbeanannuitywhichistheactuarialequivalentofthemember’saccumulatedcontributionswhenretirementundertheothersystemisfordisabilityarisingoutofandinthecourseofemploymentsubjecttosuchothersystem.


§31837.1. Election to leave accumulated contributions on deposit; retired for disability and receipt of disability retirement allowance (Contra Costa)NotwithstandingSections31837and31838,anymembercoveredunderSection31751

whoelects,pursuanttoSections31700and31832,toleaveaccumulatedcontributionsondepositmayberetiredfordisabilityandreceiveadisabilityretirementallowanceunderthissectionduringanyperiodhereafterinwhichthememberreceivesadisabilityretirementallowanceunderthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,aretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercounty,theStateTeachers’RetirementSystemoraretirementsystemofanyotherpublicagencyofthestatethathasestablishedreciprocitywiththePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemsubjecttotheconditionsofSection31840.2,subjecttoallofthefollowing conditions:

(a)Thatsuchallowanceshallnotbepaidiftheperiodinterveningbetweenthelastservicecreditedunderthissystemandbecomingamemberinsuchothersystemexceedssixmonths.

(b)That,ifthememberisretiringfornon-service-connecteddisability,thedisabilityrequirementsshallbethatoftheothersystemandthemember’sretirementallowanceshallbebasedontheothersystem’sdisabilitybenefitformula.Thedisabilitybenefitreceivedinthecountyshallbecalculatedasifallthemember’sservicewasintheothersystembutthenproratedusingtheratioofserviceinthiscountytothetotalserviceinbothsystems.

(c)That,ifthememberisretiringfordisabilityarisingoutofandinthecourseofemploymentsubjecttosuchothersystem,theallowancetothemembershallbeanannuitywhichistheactuarialequivalentofthemember’saccumulatedcontributionsatthetimeofretirement.

(AddedbyStats.1980,Ch.58,Sec.19,EffectiveApril4,1980)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.966(AB2331),Sec.17)

Article15,§31836.2.-§31837.1. 330

§31838. Retirement allowance; computation of amountEverysafetymemberunderage55yearsandeveryothermemberunderage65years

whoisretiredfornonservice-connecteddisabilityandwhoisretiredsimultaneouslyunderadisabilityretirementallowancefromthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemoraretirementsystemestablishedunderthischapterinanothercountyshallreceivearetirementallowanceequaltothegreaterofthefollowingamounts;

(1)Thesumtowhichhewouldbeentitledasserviceretirement;or(2)Asumwhichshallconsistof:

(a)Anannuitywhichistheactuarialequivalentofhisaccumulatedcontributionsatthe time of his retirement, and

(b)If,intheopinionoftheboard,hisdisabilityisnotduetointemperateuseofalcoholicliquorordrugs,willfulmisconduct,orviolationoflawonhispart,adisabilityretirementpensionpurchasedbycontributionsofthecountyordistrict,allcomputedasprovidedinSections31727or31727.2.


§31838.5. Members with service credits in more than one entity; disability benefit amountNoprovisionofthischaptershallbeconstruedtoauthorizeanymember,creditedwith

serviceinmorethanoneentityandwhoiseligibleforadisabilityallowance,whetherserviceconnectedornonserviceconnectedtoreceiveanamountfromonecountythat,whencombinedwithanyamountfromothercountiesorthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,resultsinadisabilityallowancegreaterthantheamountthememberwouldhavereceivedhadallthemember’sservicebeenwithonlyoneentity.

Incasesofservice-connecteddisabilityallowancesonly,thelimitationondisabilityallowancesprovidedforinthissectionshallapplytoservice-connecteddisabilityallowancespayabletothosewho,afterbeingemployedwithanothercountyoranentitywithinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,becomeemployedbyasecondpublicentityonorafterJanuary1,1984.Eachentityshallcalculateitsrespectiveobligationsbaseduponthemember’sservicewiththatentityandeachshalladjustitspaymentonaproratabasis.


§31839. Death before retirement; death benefitUponthedeathbeforeretirementofamember,whileinserviceasamemberofthe

PublicEmployees’RetirementSystemoraretirementsystemestablishedpursuanttothischapterinanothercounty,whohasmadeanelectionpursuanttoSection31700and31832,thedeathbenefitprovidedinSection31781payablebythesystemfromwhichheorsheelecteddeferred retirement shall consist of:

(a)Whendeathisnottheresultofadiseaseorinjuryarisingoutofandinthecourseofemployment,theamountofsuchdeathbenefitshallnotexceedanamountwhichwhenaddedtothedeathbenefitpayableforthememberundersuchothersystemwillequalthetotaloftheaccumulatedcontributionstobothsystemsplus50percentoftheannualcompensationearnableorpensionablecompensationpursuanttoSection7522.34,whicheverisapplicable,bythedeceasedduringthe12monthsimmediatelyprecedinghisorherdeath.

(b)Whendeathistheresultofdiseaseorinjuryarisingoutofandinthecourseofhisorheremploymentasamemberofsuchothersystem,suchdeathbenefitshallconsistsolelyofthemember’saccumulatedcontributions.


Article15,§31838.-§31839.331

§31840. Applicability of death benefit provisions to certain countiesThedeathbenefitprovisionsofparagraph(a)ofSection31839shallbesubjecttothe

provisionsofSections31765,31765.1,31781.1and31781.2inthosecountieswherethesesectionsareapplicable.Inallcalculationsunderthesesectionsonlytheretirementallowanceswhichwouldbepayablebythesystemfromwhichthememberelecteddeferredretirementshallbeconsidered.

TheprovisionsofSection31784shallapplytothedeathbenefitsprovidedbyparagraphs(a)and(b)ofSection31839.


§31840.01. Contra Costa County; death benefit (Contra Costa)NotwithstandingSection31840,uponthedeathbeforeretirementofamembercovered

underSection31751,whileinserviceasamemberofaretirementsystemestablishedpursuanttothischapterinanothercounty,whohasmadeanelectionpursuanttoSection31700and31831,thedeathbenefitprovisionsofparagraph(a)ofSection31839shallbesubjecttotheprovisionsofSections31765,31765.1,31781.1,and31781.2insuchothersystemwherethesesectionsareapplicable.Inallcalculationsunderthesesections,thedeathbenefitreceivedfromthiscountyshallbecalculatedasifallofthemember’sservicewasintheothersystembutthenproratedusingtheratioofserviceinthiscountytothetotalserviceinbothsystems.TheprovisionsofSection31784shallapplytothedeathbenefitsprovidedbysubdivisions(a)and(b)ofSection31839.


§31840.1. University member; applicability of provisionsTheprovisionsofthisarticleextendingrightstoamemberofacountyretirement

systemestablishedunderthischapterorsubjectinghimtoanylimitation,byreasonofhismembershipinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem,shallapplyinlikemannerandunderlikeconditionstosaidmemberbyreasonofhismembershipinanyretirementsystemmaintainedbytheRegentsoftheUniversityofCalifornia,providedsaidmemberentersanyretirementsystemmaintainedbysaidregentspursuanttoanagreementmadeonorafterJanuary1,1965,betweensaidregentsandacountymakingprovisionfortheoperationbysaidregents of all or any part of the hospital facilities of that county or the transfer of title to such a hospital to the regents and for reciprocal university retirement system rights and limitations substantiallycomparabletothoseprescribedbythisarticle.


§31840.2. Extension of rights or subjecting member to limitation by reason of membership in Public Employees’ Retirement SystemTheprovisionsofthisarticleextendingrightstoamemberofacountyretirement

systemestablishedunderthischapterorsubjectinghimorhertoanylimitationbyreasonofhisorhermembershipinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemshallapplyinlikemannerandunderlikeconditionstoamemberbyreasonofhisorhermembershipinanyretirementsystemestablishedunderChapter2(commencingwithSection45300)ofDivision5ofTitle4withrespecttowhichanordinancecomplyingwithSection45310.5hasbeenfiledwithandacceptedbytheboardorbyreasonofhisorhermembershipinaretirementsystemestablishedbyorpursuanttothecharterofacityorcityandcountyorbyanyotherpublicagencyofthisstatewhichsystem,intheopinionoftheboard,providesasimilarmodificationofrightsandbenefitsbecauseofmembershipinasystemestablishedunderthischapterandwithrespecttowhichthegoverningbodyofsuchcity,cityandcountyorpublicagencyandtheboardhaveenteredintoagreementpursuanttoSection20351.Thissectionshallapplyonlytoa

Article15,§31840.-§31840.2. 332

memberwhoseterminationandsubsequentreentryintoemploymentresultinginachangeinmembershipfromasystemestablishedunderthischaptertosuchothersystemorfromsuchothersystemtoasystemestablishedunderthischapteroccurredaftersuchacceptanceordeterminationbytheboard;provided,however,thatprovisionsrelatingtocomputationoffinalcompensationshallapplytoanyothermemberifsuchprovisionwouldhaveappliedhadtheterminationandentryintoemploymentoccurredaftersuchacceptanceordeterminationbytheboard.

Asusedinthissection,“board”meanstheBoardofAdministrationofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystem.


§31840.3. Extension of rights to person who terminated state employment on or after June 30, 1971, and became permanent county employee on or before January 4, 1972Theprovisionsofthischapterextendingrightstoamemberofacountyretirement

systemestablishedunderthischapterbyreasonofhismembershipinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemshallalsoapplytomemberswhoterminatedstateemploymentonorafterJune30,1971,butbecauseofcountybudgetproblemswerenotemployedinthepermanentpositionstowhichtheywouldotherwisehavebeenassignedanddidnotbecomepermanentcountyemployeesuntilonorbeforeJanuary4,1972.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilitisadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31840.4. Rights conditioned upon reemployment prior to termination of membership; length of time; applicability of sectionWhereverinthischaptertherightsofamember,becauseofmembershipinanother

retirementsystem,areconditioneduponreemploymentwithin90daysofterminationofemploymentcoveredbyasystemunderthischapteroranotherretirementsystem,withrespecttosuchreemploymentwhichoccursonandafterJanuary1,1976,suchperiodshallbesixmonthsratherthan90days.

ThissectionshallalsobeapplicabletomemberswhowerepermanentemployeesofthestatewhowerelaidoffbecauseofareductioninworkforceandwhosebreakinservicebetweenretirementsystemsoccurredpriortoJanuary1,1976,butnotbeforeApril1,1970.


§31840.5. Extension of rights to certain former state employees employed by districtTheprovisionsofthischapterextendingrightstoamemberofacountyretirement

systemestablishedunderthischapterorsubjectinghimtoanylimitation,byreasonofhismembershipinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemshallalsoapplytomemberswhoterminatedstateemploymentandbecameemployeesofadistrictwithinsixmonthsofsuchterminationandwhowereemployeesofsuchdistrictatthetimethatthedistrictbecamesubjecttothecountyretirementsystem.Anychangeinamember’scontributionrateshallbecomeeffectiveonJanuary1,1977,andamemberwhoserateisreducedshallnotbeentitledtoanypaymentwithrespecttohisrateofcontributionpriortothatdate.



Article15,§31840.2.-§31840.5.333

§31840.6. Elected officer members who become members of other system upon commencement of other elective office; maximum break in serviceWheneverinthischaptertherightsofamember,becauseofmembershipinanother

retirement system, are conditioned upon reemployment within six months of termination of membershipinasystemunderthischapteroranotherretirementsystem,suchperiodshallbeoneyearratherthansixmonthsifthememberwasanelectiveofficerandbecomesamemberofasystemestablishedunderthischapteruponcommencementofserviceinanotherelectiveofficeonandafterJanuary1,1977.

Thissectionshallnotbeapplicableinanycountyuntiladoptedbytheboardofsupervisorsnoruntiltheotheremployerinareciprocalsystemelectsasimilarprovision.


§31840.7. Rights conditioned upon reemployment within specified period following termination; contingent operationWhereverinthischaptertherightsofamember,becauseofmembershipinanother

retirementsystem,areconditioneduponreemploymentwithinaspecifiedperiodafterterminationofemploymentcoveredbyasystemunderthischapteroranotherretirementsystem,theperiodshallbeoneyearinthecaseofanymemberwhowasreemployedonorafterJanuary1,1989,andwhoseterminationofemploymentwasduetolayoffbecauseof,alackofwork,alackoffunds,orareductioninworkforce.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilthetimethattheboardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makestheprovisionapplicableinthatcounty.


§31840.8. Application of chapter provisions; State Teachers’ Retirement System Defined Benefit Plan members; Judges’ Retirement System and Judges’ Retirement System IITheprovisionsofthischapterextendingrightstoamemberofacountyretirement

systemestablishedunderthischapterbyreasonofhisorhermembershipinthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemshallalsoapplytomembersoftheStateTeachers’RetirementSystemDefinedBenefitPlan,theJudges’RetirementSystem,andtheJudges’RetirementSystemII.


Article 15.5Survivors’Allowances

(Article15.5addedbyStats.1961,Ch.1591,Sec.3;ArticleapplicableincountiesadoptingitasprescribedbySection31841)

§31841. Operative effect as to countiesThisarticleshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardof

supervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthisarticleapplicableinsuchcounty.


Article15,§31840.6.-Article15.5,§31841. 334

§31841.1. Applicability to members subject to Federal Social Security ActThisarticleshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberwhobecauseofhiscountyserviceis

subjecttothefederaloldageandsurvivorsinsuranceprovisionsoftheFederalSocialSecurityAct.


§31842. Eligible spouse definedAsusedinthisarticle“eligiblespouse”meansanindividualwhoiscaringforoneor

moreofthechildren(asdefinedinSection31843)ofadeceasedmemberandwhois:(a)Thewidoworwidowerofsuchdeceasedmember,or(b)Thedivorcedformerspouseofsuchdeceasedmember,fromwhomheorshewas

receivingnotlessthanone-halfofhisorhersupportatthetimeofhisorherdeath.(AmendedbyStats.1976,Ch.1436,Sec.26)

§31843. Child definedAsusedinthisarticle“child”meansamember’schildwhoisdependentuponsuch

memberatthetimeofhisdeathandwhilesuchchildisunmarriedand:(a)Under18yearsofage,or(b)Whetherunderorover18yearsofage,totallydisabledandsuchdisabilityoccurred

priortosuchchildattainingage18years.(AddedbyStats.1961,Ch.1591,Sec.3)

§31844. Parent definedAsusedinthisarticle“parent”means:Thefatherormotherofthedeceasedmemberwhoatthetimeofthedeathofsuch

memberwasnotlessthan62yearsofageandwasreceivingnotlessthanone-halfofhisorhersupportfromthemember,andwhohasnotremarriedsincethemember’sdeath.


§31845. Waiver of death benefit by eligible spouse; survivor’s allowanceUponthedeathofamemberpriortoretirementwhowasamembercontinuouslyfor

notlessthan18monthsimmediatelypriortohisdeath,survivedbyaneligiblespouse,ifsucheligiblespousewaivestheamount,ifany,payableasadeathbenefitpursuanttoSection31781,sucheligiblespouseshallbepaidamonthlysurvivor’sallowanceequaltothesum,baseduponthemember’scompensationatthetimeofhisdeathandthenumberofchildrenforwhichsucheligiblespouseiscaring,specifiedinSection31849minustheamounttowhichsucheligiblespouseisentitledpursuanttoSection31765,31765.1,31781.1,31781.2,or31787.


§31846. Custodian’s or guardian’s waiver of death benefit; survivor’s allowance to childrenUponthedeathofamemberpriortoretirementwhowasamembercontinuouslyfor

notlessthan18monthsimmediatelypriortohisdeathandwhoissurvivedbyoneormorechildren,duringsuchtimeasnoeligiblespouseisentitledtoasurvivor’sallowancepursuantto this article, if the father or mother having custody or guardian of such child or children waivestheamount,ifany,payableasadeathbenefitpursuanttoSection31781,suchchildorchildrenshallbeentitledtoamonthlysurvivor’sallowanceequaltothesum,baseduponthemember’scompensationatthetimeofhisdeathandthenumberofchildren,specifiedin

Article15.5,§31841.1.-§31846.335

Section31849minustheamounttowhichsuchchildrenareentitledpursuanttoSection31765,31765.1,31781.1,31781.2,or31787.


§31847. Division of survivor’s allowance to childrenThemonthlysurvivor’sallowanceinthecaseoftwoormorechildrenentitledthereto

shallbedividedequallybetweenthem.(AddedbyStats.1961,Ch.1591,Sec.3)

§31848. Survivor’s allowance to parentsUponthedeathofamemberpriortoretirementwhowasamembercontinuouslyfor

notlessthan10yearsimmediatelypriortohisdeath,whoissurvivedbyoneorbothparents,ifnodeathbenefitispaidtoanyonepursuanttoSection31781otherthanthemember’swidow,widower,orchildren,suchparent,orbothofsuchparentsshalleachbeentitledtoamonthlysurvivor’sallowanceequaltothesum,baseduponthemember’scompensationatthetimeofhisdeath,specifiedinSection31849.


§31849. Table of survivors’ allowancesMonthlysurvivors’allowancesshallbebaseduponthefollowingtable:

Monthly Member’s survivors allowancesSurvivingspousecaringforonechild $591.80Survivingspousecaringfortwoormorechildren $690.40Onechildonly $295.90Twochildrenonly $581.80Threeormorechildren $690.40Widoworwidowerage62(nochild) $327.10Eachoftwodependentparentsatage62 $295.90Soledependentparentatage62 $325.50Lumpsumpayment $255.00


§31850. Lump sum supplemental survivorship benefitUponthedeathofamemberpriortoretirementwhowasamembercontinuouslyfor

notlessthan18monthsimmediatelypriortohisdeathsurvivedbyawidoworwidowerwithwhom he was living at the time of his death, the retirement system shall pay to such widow or widower in addition to all other payments due, if any, to such widow or widower a lump sum supplementalsurvivorshipbenefitoftwohundredfifty-fivedollars($255).Ifsuchmemberisnotsurvivedbysuchawidoworwidower,theretirementsystemshallapplysuchlumpsumsupplementalsurvivorshipbenefittoreimbursethepersonwhopaidthefuneralexpensesofsuchmembertoanamountnottoexceedtwohundredfifty-fivedollars($255).


§31851. Amount of additional contributionsInadditiontothecontributionsrequiredelsewhereinthischapterthereshallbe

deductedfromthesalaryorwagesofeachmember(tofinancethecostsofthebenefitsprovidedinthisarticle)anamountspecifiedintheregulationsoftheboard.Theboardshallfixtheadditionalcontributionsofmembersatamountswhichitfindswillpayone-halfofthecost

Article15.5,§31846.-§31851. 336

ofthesurvivors’benefitsandlumpsumsupplementalsurvivorshipbenefitprovidedforinthisarticle.Unlessanduntilsuchregulationsotherwiseprovidesuchamountshallequaleighty-eightcents($0.88)permonthforsafetymembersandsixty-eightcents($0.68)permonthforallothermembers.


§31852. Additional deductions not accumulated contributions or refundableTheamountsdeductedpursuanttoSection31851shallnotbeconsideredtobea

portionofamember’saccumulatedcontributionsandshallnotberefundedtoamemberuponterminationofservice,orforanyotherreason.


Article 15.6Survivors’Allowances


§31855. Legislative intentItistheintentoftheLegislaturetoprovidebythisarticleameansbywhichanycounty

whichhasprovidedalloranyofofficersandemployeeswithbothretirementbenefitspursuanttothischapterandfederalsocialsecuritybenefitsonanonintegratedbasismayprovidethebenefitssetforthhereinasanalternativetosurvivorshipbenefitsundersocialsecurity.Accordingly,thisarticleshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvoteandspecifyingtheclassorclassesofemployeestowhichitapplies,maketheprovisionsofthisarticleapplicableinsuchcounty,andamajorityofthemembersoftheaffectedclassorclassesvotingatanelectionheldduring1974withmorethan50percentofthemembersparticipating,favortheterminationofsupplementalsurvivorshipbenefitsundersocialsecurity.Anysuchresolutionmayspecifyadatesubsequenttothedateofadoptionastheoperativedateforimplementationofthisarticle.


§31855.1. Inapplicability to retired or deferred retirement status members; reentry into employmentThisarticleshallnotbeapplicabletoanymemberwhohasretiredorbeenplacedin

adeferredretirementstatuspriortothedatethisarticlebecomesoperativeinanycounty;provided,however,thatifsuchmemberreenterscountyemploymentonafull-timebasissubsequenttotheoperativedateofthearticle,itshallbecomeapplicabletosuchmember.


§31855.2. Adoption of enabling resolutionAdoptionofanenablingresolutionbyaboardofsupervisorsshallmaketheprovisions

ofthisarticleapplicableonlytoofficersandemployeesofthatcounty.Ifthegoverningboardof any special district whose employees are within the retirement system of that county desire toincludetheiremployeeswithinthecoverageofthisarticle,theyshalldosobyadoptionofaresolutionsotodobyamajorityofallofthemembersoftheboard.


Article15.5,§31851.-Article15.6,§31855.2.337

§31855.3. ChildAsusedinthisarticle“child”meansamember’schildwhoisdependentuponsuch

memberatthetimeofthemember’sdeathandwhilesuchchildisunmarriedand:(a)Under18yearsofage,or(b)Whetherunderorover18yearsofage,totallydisabledandsuchdisabilityoccurred

priortosuchchildattainingage18years,or(c)Eighteenyearsofageorover,buthasnotattainedtheageof22years,andisenrolled

asafull-timestudentinanaccreditedschool,asdeterminedbytheboard.(AddedbyStats.1974,Ch.415,Sec.3)

§31855.4. ParentAsusedinthisarticle“parent”meansthefatherormotherofthedeceasedmemberwho

atthetimeofthedeathofsuchmemberwasnotlessthan62yearsofageandwasreceivingnotlessthanone-halfofhisorhersupportfromthemember,andwhohasnotremarriedsincethemember’sdeath.


§31855.5. Survivor’s allowance; spouseUponthedeathofamemberpriortoretirementwhowasamembercontinuouslyfor

notlessthan18monthsimmediatelypriortothemember’sdeath,themember’ssurvivingspouseshallbepaidamonthlysurvivor’sallowanceequaltothesum,basedupontheappropriatefactualcircumstances,specifiedinSection31855.8or31855.12.


§31855.6. Survivor’s allowance; child or childrenUponthedeathofamemberpriortoretirementwhowasamembercontinuouslyfor

notlessthan18monthsimmediatelypriortothemember’sdeathandwhoissurvivedbyoneormorechildrenbutnosurvivingspouse,thechildorchildrenshallbeentitledtoamonthlysurvivor’sallowanceasspecifiedinSection31855.8or31855.12.Themonthlysurvivor’sallowanceoftwoormorechildrenshallbedividedequallyastothosechildren.


§31855.7. Survivor’s allowance; parent or parentsUponthedeathofamemberpriortoretirementwhowasamembercontinuouslyfor

notlessthan18monthsimmediatelypriortothemember’sdeath,themember’ssurvivingparentorparentsshallbeentitledtoamonthlysurvivor’sallowanceasspecifiedinSection31855.8or31855.12.


§31855.8. Survivor’s allowances; tableMonthlysurvivor’sallowancesshallbebaseduponthefollowingtable:

Monthly Member’s survivors allowancesSurvivingspousecaringforonechild $591.80Survivingspousecaringfortwoormorechildren $690.40Onechildonly $295.90

Article15.6,§31855.3.-§31855.8. 338

Twochildrenonly $581.80Threeormorechildren $690.40Widoworwidowerage62(nochild) $327.10Eachoftwodependentparentsatage62 $295.90Soledependentparentatage62 $325.50Lumpsumpayment $255.00


§31855.9. Supplemental survivorship benefit; lump sumUponthedeathofamemberpriortoretirementwhowasamembercontinuously

fornotlessthan18monthsimmediatelypriortothemember’sdeathwhoissurvivedbyaspousewithwhomthememberwaslivingatthetimeofhisorherdeath,theretirementsystem shall pay to the surviving spouse, in addition to all other payments due, if any, a lump sumsupplementalsurvivorshipbenefitoftwohundredfifty-fivedollars($255),assetforthinSection31855.8or31855.12.Ifthememberisnotsurvivedbyaspousewithwhomthememberwasliving,theretirementsystemshallapplyalumpsumsupplementalsurvivorshipbenefittoreimbursethepersonwhopaidthefuneralexpensesofthememberinanamountnottoexceedtwohundredfifty-fivedollars($255).


§31855.10. Financing cost of benefits; deduction from salary or wages; contribution by countyInadditiontothecontributionsrequiredelsewhereinthischapterthereshallbe

deductedfromthesalaryorwagesofeachmembercoveredbytheprovisionsofthisarticle,tofinancethecostofthebenefitsprovidedherein,thesumofthreedollarsandfiftycents($3.50)permonthandanequivalentamounttobepaidbythecountyasanadditionalcountycontribution.Theamountsdeductedpursuanttothissectionshallnotbeconsideredtobeaportionofamember’saccumulatedcontributionsandshallnotberefundedtoamemberuponterminationofserviceorforanyotherreason.Theboardisempoweredtochangethecontributionfiguressetforthhereinfromtimetotimebasedonactuarialrecommendationastocontributionsneededtofundthesebenefits.


§31855.11. Survivor’s allowance, child but no surviving spouse; child not being cared for by surviving spouse; alternative to Section 31855.6; contingent operationUponthedeathofamemberpriortoretirementwhowasamembercontinuouslyfor

notlessthan18monthsimmediatelypriortothemember’sdeathandwhoissurvivedbyoneormorechildrenbutnosurvivingspouse,orwhoissurvivedbyoneormorechildrenwhoarenotbeingcaredforbythesurvivingspouse,thechildorchildrenshallbeentitledtoamonthlysurvivor’sallowanceasspecifiedinSection31855.8or31855.12,asthecasemaybe.Themonthlysurvivor’sallowanceoftwoormorechildrenshallbedividedequallyastothosechildren.

ThissectionisanalternativetoSection31855.6.Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountywhichhasadoptedthisarticle,untilthe

boardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativeinthecounty.


Article15.6,§31855.8.-§31855.11.339

§31855.12. Survivor’s allowances; alternative table; contingent operationMonthlysurvivor’sallowancesshallbebaseduponthefollowingtable:

Monthly Member’s survivors allowancesSurvivingspousecaringforonechild $1,390Survivingspousecaringfortwoormorechildren $1,622Onechildonly $695Twochildrenonly $1,390Threeormorechildren $1,622Widoworwidowerage62(nochild) $768Widoworwidowerage60(nochild) $663Eachoftwodependentparentsatage62 $695Soledependentparentatage62 $795Lumpsumpayment $255

ThissectionisanalternativetoSection31855.8.Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountywhichhasadoptedthisarticle,untilthe

boardofsupervisors,byresolutionadoptedbyamajorityvote,makesthissectionoperativeinthecounty.


Article 16Alternate Survivors’Allowances

(Article16addedbyStats.1961,Ch.1591,Sec.3;ArticleapplicableincountiesadoptingitasprescribedbySection31861)

§31861. Operative effect as to countiesThisarticleshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilsuchtimeastheboardof

supervisorsshall,byresolutionadoptedbymajorityvote,maketheprovisionsofthisarticleapplicableinsuchcounty.


§31862. Applicability to membersIncountiestowhichthisarticleapplies,thisarticleprovidesanalternativesystemof

survivors’allowanceapplicableonlytothememberswhoelecttoparticipate.(AddedbyStats.1961,Ch.1591,Sec.3)

§31863. Election to participate; date election becomes operativeExceptasotherwiseprovidedinSection31864,anymemberwithin30daysafterthis

articlebecomesoperativeinthecounty,orwithin30daysafterentryintoservice,orduringthecalendarmonthsofNovemberorDecemberofanyyear,mayelecttomakecontributionsfor,andparticipatein,thebenefitsprovidedforbythisarticle.Anelectionmademorethan30daysafterthisarticlebecomesoperativeinthiscountyandmorethan30daysafterentranceintoserviceshallbecomeoperativethefollowingJanuaryfirst.


Article15.6,§31855.12.-Article16,§31863. 340

§31864. Right to rescind election; effect of rescissionAnymemberwhohaselectedtoparticipateinthebenefitsprovidedforbythisarticle

mayrescindsuchelectionduringthemonthsofNovemberorDecemberofanyyear.SuchelectionshallbecomeoperativeonthefollowingJanuaryfirst.Nopartofthecontributionsdeducted,pursuanttothisarticlefromhissalaryorwageswillberefundedtosuchmember.Suchmembermaynotagainelecttoparticipateinthebenefitsprovidedforbythisarticle.


§31865. Applicability of survivor’s allowance provisionsIfamemberelectstoparticipateinthebenefitsofthisarticlealloftheprovisionsof

Article15.5shallapplytosuchmemberandtohiseligiblespouse,children,andparents,andtoallotherpersonstowhomArticle15.5applies,andsuchprovisionsarehereinincorporatedbyreferenceasifsetforthinfullexceptashereinafterinthisarticleprovidedotherwise.


§31866. Fixation of additional contributionsTheboardshallfixtheadditionalcontributionsofmembersatamountswhichit

findswillpayone-halfofthecostofthesurvivors’benefitsandlumpsumsupplementalsurvivorshipbenefitprovidedforinthisarticle.


§31866.1. Contributions from members subject to Federal Social Security ActMemberswhobecauseofcountyservice,aresubjecttothefederaloldageandsurvivors

insuranceprovisionsoftheFederalSocialSecurityActshallpaytheentirecostofthesurvivorsbenefitsandlumpsumsupplementalsurvivorshipbenefitprovidedforinthisarticle.


§31867. Amount of additional contributionsUntiltheregulationsoftheboarddesignateotherwisetheadditionalcontributionof

eachsafetymembershallbeonedollarandthirtycents($1.30)permonthandofeachothermembershallbeonedollarandseventy-onecents($1.71)permonth.


§31868. Minimum contributions for benefits to spouse or childIfamemberelectedtoparticipateinthebenefitsprovidedforbythisarticlemorethan

30daysafterthisarticlebecameoperativeinthecounty,asurvivor’sallowanceshallnotbeduetoeitherhiseligiblespouseorchild,andalumpsumsupplementalsurvivorshipbenefitshallnotbedue,unlessadditionaldeductionsweremadepursuanttothisarticlefromthesalaryorwagesofsuchmemberfornotlessthan18months.


§31869. Minimum contributions for benefits to parentsIfamemberelectedtoparticipateinthebenefitsprovidedforbythisarticlemorethan

30daysafterthisarticlebecomesoperativeinthecounty,asurvivor’sallowanceshallnotbeduetoanyparentofsuchmemberunlessadditionaldeductionsweremadepursuanttothisarticlefromthesalaryorwagesofsuchmemberfornotlessthan10years.


Article16,§31864.-§31869.341

Article 16.5Cost-of-Living Adjustment

(Article16.5addedbyStats.1965,Ch.159,Sec.10;ArticleapplicableincountiesadoptingitasprescribedbySections31874and31878)

§31870. Determination; maximum annual change of two percent in allowances; limitation on reductionTheboardshallbeforeApril1ofeachyeardeterminewhethertherehasbeenan

increaseordecreaseinthecostoflivingasprovidedinthissection.NotwithstandingSection31481oranyotherprovisionofthischapter(commencing

withSection31450),everyretirementallowance,optionaldeathallowance,orannualdeathallowancepayabletooronaccountofanymember,ofthissystemorasupersededsystem,whoretiresordiesorwhohasretiredordiedshall,asofApril1stofeachyear,beincreasedordecreasedbyapercentageofthetotalallowancethenbeingreceivedfoundbytheboardtoapproximatetothenearestone-halfof1percentthepercentageofannualincreaseordecreaseinthecostoflivingasofJanuary1stofeachyearasshownbythethencurrentBureauofLaborStatisticsConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersfortheareainwhichthecountyseatissituated,butsuchchangeshallnotexceed2percentperyear;however,theamountofanycost-of-livingincreaseordecreaseinanyyearwhichisnotmetbythemaximumannualchangeof2percentinallowancesshallbeaccumulatedtobemetbyincreasesordecreasesinallowancesinfutureyears;exceptthatnodecreaseshallreducetheallowancebelowtheamountbeingreceivedbythememberorhisbeneficiaryontheeffectivedateoftheallowanceortheapplicationofthisarticle,whicheverislater.


§31870.01. Determination; increase or decrease by 40 percent of cost-of-living increase or decrease; two percent minimum increase (Los Angeles)(a)Theboardofretirementshall,beforeApril1ofeachyear,determinewhether

therehasbeenanincreaseordecreaseinthecost-of-livingasprovidedinthissection.NotwithstandingSection31481oranyotherprovisionofthischapter,everyretirementallowance,optionaldeathallowance,orannualdeathallowancepayabletooronaccountofanymember,ofthissystemorasupersededsystem,whoretiresordiesorwhohasretiredordiedshall,asofApril1stofeachyear,beincreasedordecreasedtothenearestone-tenthof1percent,by40percentoftheannualincreaseordecreaseinthecost-of-livingasofJanuary1stofeachyearasshownbythethencurrent(yearendingDecember)BureauofLaborStatistics’ConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersfortheUnitedStatesCityAverage,exceptthatnodecreaseshallreducetheallowancebelowtheamountbeingreceivedbythememberorhisorherbeneficiaryontheeffectivedateoftheallowance.

(b)Theallowanceshallbeincreasedaminimumof2percentinanyyearinwhichtheboard’sdeterminationofcost-of-livingchangeofallowancewouldresultinless,providedthatthememberorbeneficiaryhasanaccumulatedunpaidcost-of-livingaccountsufficienttoprovidethe2percentincrease.

(c)Whenthissectionbecomesapplicableinacounty,theaccumulatedunpaidcost-of-livingamountofeachretiredmemberorbeneficiaryunderthesupersededSection31870,shallbetransferredtoalikeaccountunderthissection.Thereafter,noincreaseshallbemadetosuchaccount.

(d)TheboardofretirementmayadoptthissectiontobeeffectiveinlieuofSection31870,provided,thatnoincreaseinunfundedactuarialliabilitynorincurrentmemberoremployercontributionstothesystemarerequiredasaresultoftheadoptionandisso

Article16.5,§31870.-§31870.01. 342

attestedbyanenrolledactuary.Afteradoption,theeffectivedateforincreasesordecreasesinallowancespursuanttothissectionshallbethenextsucceedingApril1.

(e)Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthefirstclass,asestablishedbySections28020and28022,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971.


§31870.1. Determination; maximum annual change of three percent in allowances; limitation on reductionTheboardshallbeforeApril1ofeachyeardeterminewhethertherehasbeenan


withSection31450),everyretirementallowance,optionaldeathallowance,orannualdeathallowancepayabletooronaccountofanymember,ofthissystemorsupersededsystemwhoretiresordiesorwhohasretiredordiedshall,asofApril1stofeachyear,beincreasedordecreasedbyapercentageofthetotalallowancethenbeingreceivedfoundbytheboardtoapproximatetothenearestone-halfof1percent,thepercentageofannualincreaseordecreaseinthecostoflivingasofJanuary1stofeachyearasshownbythethencurrentBureauofLaborStatisticsConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersfortheareainwhichthecountyseatissituated,butsuchchangeshallnotexceed3percentperyear;however,theamountofanycost-of-livingincreaseordecreaseinanyyearwhichisnotmetbythemaximumannualchangeof3percentinallowancesshallbeaccumulatedtobemetbyincreasesordecreasesinallowanceinfutureyears;exceptthatnodecreaseshallreducetheallowancebelowtheamountbeingreceivedbythememberorhisbeneficiaryontheeffectivedateoftheallowanceortheapplicationofthisarticle,whicheverislater.


§31870.11. Determination; increase or decrease by 60 percent of cost-of-living increase or decrease; three percent minimum increase (Los Angeles)(a)Theboardofretirementshall,beforeApril1ofeachyear,determinewhether

therehasbeenanincreaseordecreaseinthecost-of-livingasprovidedinthissection.NotwithstandingSection31481oranyotherprovisionofthischapter,everyretirementallowance,optionaldeathallowance,orannualdeathallowancepayabletooronaccountofanymember,ofthissystemorasupersededsystem,whoretiresordiesorwhohasretiredordiedshall,asofApril1stofeachyear,beincreasedordecreasedtothenearestone-tenthof1percent,by60percentoftheannualincreaseordecreaseinthecost-of-livingasofJanuary1stofeachyearasshownbythethencurrent(yearendingDecember)BureauofLaborStatistics’ConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersfortheUnitedStatesCityAverage,exceptthatnodecreaseshallreducetheallowancebelowtheamountbeingreceivedbythememberorhisorherbeneficiaryontheeffectivedateoftheallowance.

(b)Theallowanceshallbeincreasedaminimumof3percentinanyyearinwhichtheboard’sdeterminationofcost-of-livingchangeofallowancewouldresultinless,providedthatthememberorbeneficiaryhasanaccumulatedunpaidcost-of-livingaccountsufficienttoprovidethe3percentincrease.

(c)Whenthissectionbecomesapplicableinacounty,theaccumulatedunpaidcost-of-livingaccountofeachretiredmemberorbeneficiaryunderthesupersededSection31870.1,shallbetransferredtoalikeaccountunderthissection.Thereafter,noincreasesshallbemadetosuchaccount.

(d)TheboardofretirementmayadoptthissectiontobeeffectiveinlieuofSection31870.1,provided,thatnoincreaseinunfundedactuarialliabilitynorincurrentmember

Article16.5,§31870.01.-§31870.11.343

oremployercontributionstothesystemarerequiredasaresultoftheadoptionandissoattestedbyanenrolledactuary.Afteradoption,theeffectivedateforincreasesordecreasesinallowancespursuanttothissectionshallbethenextsucceedingApril1.

(e)Thissectionshallapplyonlyinacountyofthefirstclass,asestablishedbySections28020and28022,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971.


§31870.2. Determination; maximum annual change of five percent in allowances; limitation on reductionTheboardshallbeforeApril1ofeachyeardeterminewhethertherehasbeenan


withSection31450),everyretirementallowance,optionaldeathallowance,orannualdeathallowancepayabletooronaccountofanymember,ofthissystemorsupersededsystemwhoretiresordiesorwhohasretiredordiedshall,asofApril1stofeachyear,beincreasedordecreasedbyapercentageofthetotalallowancethenbeingreceivedfoundbytheboardtoapproximatetothenearestone-halfof1percent,thepercentageofannualincreaseordecreaseinthecostoflivingasofJanuary1stofeachyearasshownbythethencurrentBureauofLaborStatisticsConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersfortheareainwhichthecountyseatissituated,butsuchchangeshallnotexceed5percentperyear;however,theamountofanycost-of-livingincreaseordecreaseinanyyearwhichisnotmetbythemaximumannualchangeof5percentinallowancesshallbeaccumulatedtobemetbyincreasesordecreasesinallowancesinfutureyears;exceptthatnodecreaseshallreducetheallowancebelowtheamountbeingreceivedbythememberorhisbeneficiaryontheeffectivedateoftheallowanceortheapplicationofthissection,whicheverislater.


§31870.3. Contra Costa County; determination; limitationNotwithstandingSection31870.1,theboardshall,beforeApril1stofeachyear,

determinewhethertherehasbeenanincreaseordecreaseinthecost-of-livingasprovidedinthissection.NotwithstandingSection31481oranyotherprovisionofthischapter,everyretirementallowance,optionaldeathallowance,orannualdeathallowancepayableto,oronaccountof,anymemberofthissystemwhowascoveredunderSection31751whoretiresordies,orwhohasretiredordied,shall,asofApril1stofeachyear,beincreasedordecreasedbyapercentageofthetotalallowancethenbeingreceivedfoundbytheboardtoapproximatetothenearestone-halfof1percent,thepercentageofannualincreaseordecreaseinthecostoflivingasofJanuary1stofeachyearasshownbythethencurrentBureauofLaborStatisticsConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersfortheareainwhichthecountyseatissituated,butsuchchangeshallnotexceed4percentperyear;however,theamountofanycost-of-livingincreaseordecreaseinanyyearwhichisnotmetbythemaximumannualchangeof4percentinallowancesshallbeaccumulatedtobemetbyincreasesordecreasesinallowancesinfutureyears;exceptthatnodecreaseshallreducetheallowancebelowtheamountbeingreceivedbythememberorhisbeneficiaryontheeffectivedateoftheallowanceortheapplicationofthissection,whicheverislater.

(AddedbyStats,1980,Ch.58,Sec.21,EffectiveApril4,1980)

§31870.4. Computation of accumulation established in Section 31870 to Section 31870.3; accumulation adjustment; operative effectNotwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,theaccumulationestablishedinSection

31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3shallbecomputedbymultiplyingtheexistingaccumulation

Article16.5,§31870.11.-§31870.4. 344

fromprioryearsbyanamountequaltooneplustheamountofanycost-of-livingincreaseordecreaseinthecurrentyear,andaddingtothisresultthe“accumulationadjustment,”where“accumulationadjustment”meanstheamountofanycost-of-livingincreaseordecreaseinthecurrentyearthatisnotmetbythemaximumannualchangeinallowancesprovidedinSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3,whicheverisapplicable.AtnotimemaytheaccumulationestablishedinSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3belessthanzero.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilitisadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.Uponadoptionofthissectionbytheboardofsupervisors,theaccumulationofeachmemberunderSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3,whicheverisapplicable,shallberecomputedasifthissectionhadbeenineffectonthemember’sdateofretirement.


§31871. Funding increases in allowances based on service rendered prior to applicable date of articleAnyincreasesinallowanceswhicharebaseduponservicerenderedpriortothe

applicabledateofthisarticle(asfixedpursuanttoSection31874)shallbefundedinsofaraspossiblefromthemoneysinthereservedescribedinSection31592whichareinexcessofone(1)percentoftheassetsoftheretirementsystem;exceptthatincountieswhichhaveappliedSection31592.2theboardofsupervisorsmayfundallorpartoftheincreasesfromthecountygeneralfund.


§31872. Funding other increases in allowancesAnysuchincreasesinallowanceswhicharenotfundedasprovidedinSection31871

andanysuchincreaseswhicharebaseduponservicerenderedaftertheapplicabledateofthisarticle(asfixedpursuanttoSection31874)shallbefundedbycontributionssetbytheboard,asitdeterminesnecessary.


§31873. Increases in contributions; equal apportionment; payment by county of contribution assessable to member(a)Anyincreasesincontributionsshallbesharedequallybetweenthecountyordistrict

andthecontributingmembers,withtheindividualmember’scontributionsbaseduponthemember’sageathisorhernearestbirthdayattimeofentranceintotheretirementsystemorbasedonasinglerateofcontributionspursuanttoSection31621.11,31639.26,orasotherwiseauthorizedbythischapterortheCaliforniaPublicEmployees’PensionReformActof2013.Theboardofsupervisorsbyamajorityvotemayelecttopaypartofthecostsofthecontributionswhichwouldotherwisebeassessedtotheindividualmembers.

(b)Notwithstandingsubdivision(a),pursuanttoSection7522.30,theboardofsupervisorsshallnotpayanypartofthecostsofthemembercontributionsofnewmembersasdefinedinsubdivision(f)ofSection7522.04.

(AmendedbyStats.1976,Ch.1436,Sec.27.1)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.47)

§31873.1. Contra Costa County; equal apportionment of contributions; percentages (Contra Costa)(a)Anycost-of-livingcontributionsrequiredforbenefitsunderSection31870.3shallbe

sharedequallybetweenthecountyordistrictandthecontributingmembers.Theindividual

Article16.5,§31870.4.-§31873.1.345

member’scontributionsshallbebaseduponthemember’sageatthemember’snearestbirthdayattimeofentranceintotheretirementsystem,andshallbeexpressedasapercentageofthemember’snormalcontributionrate.Theboardofsupervisorsbyamajorityvotemayelecttopayallorpartofthecostsofthecontributionswhichwouldotherwisebeassessedtotheindividualmembers.

(b)Notwithstandingsubdivision(a),pursuanttoSection7522.30,theboardofsupervisorsshallnotpayanypartofthecostsofthemembercontributionsofnewmembersasdefinedinsubdivision(f)ofSection7522.04.

(c)Untilrevisedbysubsequentactuarialstudies,themember’scost-of-livingcontributionrateshallbe39.57percentofthemember’snormalcontributionrate.Theseinitialcost-of-livingcontributionratesareshowninthefollowingtable,accordingtothemember’sage at the time of entry into the system:

Age of entry Percentage into system of contribution 16 1.16 17 1.16 18 1.16 19 1.16 20 1.16 21 1.16 22 1.16 23 1.16 24 1.16 25 1.17 26 1.17 27 1.18 28 1.18 29 1.19 30 1.20 31 1.20 32 1.21 33 1.22 34 1.23 35 1.24 36 1.25 37 1.26 38 1.27 39 1.28 40 1.29 41 1.30 42 1.31 43 1.32 44 1.33 45 1.34 46 1.36 47 1.37 48 1.38 49 1.40 50 1.41 51 1.43

Article16.5,§31873.1. 346

Age of entry Percentage into system of contribution 52 1.44 53 1.46 54andover 1.47

(AddedbyStats.1980,Ch.58,Sec.22,EffectiveApril4,1980)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.48)

§31874. Applicable date of article; use of surplus for cost-of-living adjustmentsThisarticle(commencingSection31870)maybemadeapplicableinanycountyonthe

datespecifiedintheordinance,orifnosuchdateisspecified,onthefirstdayofthemonthaftertheeffectivedateofanordinanceadoptedbytheboardofsupervisorstothiseffect,providedthatanactuarialsurveyoftheretirementsystemhasbeenmadebytheadoptingcountypriortothepassageofsaidordinance.NoprovisionofthischaptershallpreventorbeconstruedtopreventtheuseandexpenditureofsurplusdescribedinSection31592.2tofundanypartorallofanyincreasesinallowancesotherwisepermittedafterthisarticleorArticle16.6(commencingwithSection31875)orboththisarticleandArticle16.6oranyoftheprovisionsofthisarticleorArticle16.6havebeenmadeapplicable.

Exceptinacountyofthefirstclass,uponadoptionbyacountyprovidingincreasesinallowancespursuanttothisarticle,ofArticle5.5(commencingwithSection31510)ofthischapter, only that portion of the increases in allowances which is paid from surplus earnings describedinSection31592.2shallbepaid,instead,fromtheSupplementalRetireeBenefitsReserveestablishedpursuanttoSection31510.8.


§31874.1. Determination; application of excess over three percent to allowancesWheneverthepercentageofannualincreaseinthecost-of-livingasofJanuary1stof

eachyearasshownbytheBureauofLaborStatisticsConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersexceeds3percent,allorpartofsuchexcessover3percentshallbeappliedtotheretirement allowances, optional death allowances or annual death allowances increased in Section31870or31870.1.Theboardofsupervisorsshalldeterminetheamountofsuchexcesstobeapplied,andthecostoftheincreasesinallowancesprovidedshallbepaidfromcountyanddistrictcontributions.

Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilitisadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.


§31874.2. Determination; maximum annual change; ordinanceTheboardofsupervisorsinanycounty,byamajorityvote,mayenactanordinance

providingthatthemaximumannualchangepursuanttothisarticleshallbeincreasedto4,5,or6percent,asdeterminedbytheboard,ontheoperativedateofsuchordinance.


§31874.3. Determination; application of excess to allowances; effect on subsequent increases(a)(1)WheneverthepercentageofannualincreaseinthecostoflivingasofJanuary1

ofeachyearasshownbytheBureauofLaborStatisticsConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersexceedsthemaximumbenefitincreaseprovidedinSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3,whicheverisapplicable,theboardofretirementmayprovidethatallorpartoftheexcesspercentageincreaseshallbeappliedtotheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowances,orannualdeathallowancesincreasedinSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3.

Article16.5,§31873.1.-§31874.3.347

Theboardshalldeterminetheamountoftheexcesstobeapplied,whichamountshallnotexceedanamountthatcanbepaidfromearningsoftheretirementfundthatareinexcessofthetotalinterestcreditedtocontributionsandreservesplus1percentofthetotalassetsoftheretirementfund.

(2)Thesupplementalincreasesinexcessoftheincreasesappliedtotheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowances,orannualdeathallowancespursuanttoSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3shallnotbecomeapartoftheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowances,orannualdeathallowancestobeincreasedbysubsequentincreasesunderSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3.

(3)ThissubdivisionshallbeoperativeinanycountythathaselectedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisorstomakeeitherSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3applicableinthatcounty.

(b)(1)Theboardofretirementmay,insteadoftakingactionpursuanttosubdivision(a),providesupplementalcost-of-livingincreases,effectiveonadatetobedeterminedbytheboard,totheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowances,orannualdeathallowancesincreasedinSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3;providedhowever,thatonlythosemembersshallbeeligibleforthisincreasewhoseaccumulationsestablishedbySection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3shallequalorexceed20percentasofJanuary1oftheyearinwhichtheboardofretirementadoptsanincreaseunderthissubdivision.

(2)Thesupplementalincreasestotheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowancesorannualdeathallowancesincreasedinSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3shallnotbecomeapartoftheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowancesorannualdeathallowancestobeincreasedbysubsequentincreasesunderSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3.


(c)(1)Theboardofretirementmay,insteadoftakingactionpursuanttosubdivision(a)or(b),providesupplementalcost-of-livingincreases,onaprefundedbasisandeffectiveonadatetobedeterminedbytheboard,totheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowances,orannualdeathallowancesincreasedinSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3;providedhowever,onlythosemembersshallbeeligibleforthisincreasewhoseaccumulationsestablishedbySection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3equalorexceed20percentasofJanuary1oftheyearinwhichtheboardofretirementtakesactionpursuanttothissubdivision.

(2)Thesupplementalincreasestotheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowances,orannualdeathallowancesincreasedinSection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3shallbecomeapartoftheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowances,orannualdeathallowancesandshallservetoreducetheaccumulationsestablishedbySection31870,31870.1,31870.2,or31870.3,asapplicable,bythesamepercentageasthepaymentthatismadepursuanttothisSection.

(3)Beforetheboardofretirementprovidesbenefitspursuanttothissubdivision,thecostsofthebenefitsshallbedeterminedbyaqualifiedactuaryandtheboardofretirementshall,withtheadviceoftheactuary,provideforthefullfundingofthebenefitsutilizingfundsinthereserveagainstdeficienciesestablishedpursuanttoSection31592.2,usingsurplusearningsthatexceed1percentofthetotalassetsoftheretirementsystem.


(d)Uponadoptionbyanycountyprovidingbenefitspursuanttothissection,ofArticle5.5(commencingwithSection31610)ofthischapter,theboardofretirementshall,instead,pay

Article16.5,§31874.3. 348

thosebenefitsfromtheSupplementalRetireeBenefitReserveestablishedpursuanttoSection31618.

(Amended(asamendedbyStats.1983,Ch.147,Sec.2)byStats.1983,Ch.886,Sec.11)(AmendedbyStats.2000,Ch.317(AB2176),Sec.4)

§31874.4. Accumulation of unused increases or decreases for future years; applicability (San Mateo)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,theboardofsupervisorsinacountyof

the10thclassmayprovideinanyordinanceimplementinganysectioninthisarticlethattheprovisionofthisarticlerequiringunusedincreasesordecreasesinanyyeartobeaccumulatedforfutureyearsshallnotapplytothoseemployeesandofficialsspecifiedintheordinance.


§31874.5. Additional cost-of-living adjustments(a)WheneverthepercentageofannualincreaseinthecostoflivingasofJanuary1

ofeachyearasshownbytheBureauofLaborStatisticsConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersexceedsafull3percentoftheexistingcost-of-livingincreasefactorprovidedbyanyprovisionofthisarticle,anadditional1percentoftheexcessforeachfull3percentovertheexistingincreasefactorshallbeappliedtotheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowances,orannualdeathallowancesincreasedbyanyprovisionofthisarticle.Theincreasesinallowancesresultingfromtheadoptionofthissectionshallbeusedtooffsetanyaccumulatedcarryoverbalancesunderexistingcost-of-livingadjustments.Thecostofimplementingthissectionshallbeprefundedcommencingwiththeadoptionofthissectionbytheboardofsupervisors.Themethodofpayingthecostofimplementingthissectionmaybemutuallyagreedtoinamemorandumofunderstandingexecutedbytheemployerandemployeerepresentatives.Theboardofretirementshallconducttheactuarialstudiestodeterminethosecosts.

(b)Thissectionshallnotbeoperativeinanycountyuntilitisadoptedbyamajorityvoteoftheboardofsupervisors.

(c)Notwithstandingsubdivision(a),amemorandumofunderstandingregardingtheapplicationofthecontributionsofnewmembers,asdefinedinsubdivision(f)ofSection7522.04,towardspayingthecostoftheadditionalcost-of-livingadjustmentshallnotconflictwiththerequirementsofSection7522.30orasmaybeagreedtoinaccordancewithSections7522.30and31631.


§31874.6. Cost-of-living adjustments (Sonoma, Imperial)(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,onanannualbasis,theboardof

retirementmay,withtheapprovalofthecountyboardofsupervisors,grantacost-of-livingadjustmentonaprefundedbasistotheretirementallowances,optionaldeathallowances,orannualdeathallowancespayabletooronaccountofeligiblemembers.Theactionbytheboardofretirementmayspecifyadateasofwhichtheadjustmentshallbeeffectiveand,ifnoeffectivedateisspecified,theadjustmentshallbemadeinallowancespayableforthetimecommencingonthefirstdayofthemonthfollowingtheactionbytheboardofretirementorapprovalbythecountyboardofsupervisors,whicheverislater.

(b)Beforetheboardofretirementmaygrantanadjustmentpursuanttothissection,thetotalcostsoftheadjustmentshallbedeterminedbyaqualifiedactuaryandtheboardshalldetermine,withtheadviceoftheactuary,thatfullfundingoftheadjustmentcanbe

Article16.5,§31874.3.-§31874.6.349

provided from earnings of the retirement fund that are in excess of the total interest credited to contributionsandreservesplus1percentofthetotalassetsoftheretirementfund.

(c)Theadjustmentprovidedbythissectionshallbepayableonlytothoseretiredmembers,survivors,beneficiaries,orsuccessorsininterestwhoseaccumulatedlossofpurchasingpowerequalsorexceeds20percentasofJanuary1oftheyeartheboardofretirementtakesactionpursuanttothissection.Lossofpurchasingpowershallbedeterminedbytheboardofretirementbasedonthedifferencebetweenthefollowing:

(1) The initial retirement allowance, optional death allowance, or annual death allowanceasitwouldhavebeenincreasedbythecumulativetotaleffectoftheannualchanges,roundedtothenearestone-halfof1percent,intheConsumerPriceIndexforAllUrbanConsumersfortheareainwhichthecountyseatissituated.

(2)Theretirementallowance,optionaldeathallowance,orannualdeathallowanceasactuallyincreasedbycost-of-livingadjustmentspreviouslygrantedwithrespecttotheallowance.

(d)Acost-of-livingadjustmentgrantedpursuanttothissectionshallbecomepartoftheretirementallowance,optionaldeathallowance,orannualdeathallowancetobeincreasedbyanysubsequentcost-of-livingadjustments.Thegrantingofanincreasepursuanttothissectionin any particular year does not create any continuing entitlement to additional increases in subsequentyears,anddoesnotcreateanyclaimbyaretiredmember,survivor,beneficiary,or successor in interest against the county, district, or retirement fund for any increase in any allowancepaidorpayablepriortotheeffectivedateoftheactionbytheboardofretirementpursuanttothissection.

(e)Thissectionshallonlybeapplicableinthefollowingcounties:(1)Acountyofthe19thclass,asdefinedbySections28020and28040,asamendedby

Chapter1204oftheStatutesof1971.(2)Acountyofthe32ndclass,asdefinedbySections28020and28053,asamendedby

Chapter1204oftheStatutesof1971.(AddedbyStats.2004,Ch.435(AB2894),Sec.1)(AmendedbyStats.2005,Ch.22(SB1108),Sec.94)(AmendedbyStats.2008,Ch.202(SB392),Sec.1)

Article 16.6Retrospective Cost-of-Living Adjustment


§31875. Adjustments in accordance with past cost-of-living changes; ordinance; applicable lawAnycountymayprovidebyordinancethattheprinciplessetforthinArticle16.5

(commencingwithSection31870),asabasisforadjustmentofretirementallowancesinaccordancewithfuturecost-of-livingchanges,shallbeappliedforthepurposeofadjustingretirementallowancesinaccordancewithpastcost-of-livingchanges.


§31876. Amount of retirement allowancesTheretirementallowancespayablefollowingtheeffectivedateofthisarticleinthe

countyshallbeinthesameamountsaswouldbepayableifArticle16.5hadbeenineffectin

Article16.5,§31874.6.-Article16.6,§31876. 350

thecountyonthedatespecifiedintheordinanceasthedateforapplicationofthisarticleinthecounty.


§31877. Adjustments for changes in consumer price index occurring prior to effective date of article; prospective applicationAnyadjustmentmadepursuanttothisarticlewithreferencetochangesinthe

ConsumerPriceIndexforallUrbanConsumerswhichoccurredpriortotheeffectivedateofthisarticleinacountyshallapplyprospectivelyonly;andnoright,claimorinterestwhatsoevershallbecreatedbytheapplicationoftheprovisionsofthissectioninanycountywith respect to retirement allowance payments made for time prior to the effective date of this articleinthecounty.


§31878. Ordinance; date of applicability of Article 16.5; effective date of adjustments(a)Thisarticlemaybeadoptedbyanycountybyordinance.(b)TheordinanceshallspecifyadateasofwhichArticle16.5shallbedeemed

applicable.Theapplicabledatemaybethefirstdayofanyprioryear.Ifnoapplicabledateisspecified,Article16.5shallbedeemedapplicableasofthefirstdayoftheyearprecedingtheyearofretirementoftheearliestretiredmemberwhoiscurrentlybeingpaidaretirementallowanceatthetimetheordinanceisadopted.

(c)Theordinanceshallspecifyadateasofwhichtheadjustmentsmadepursuanttothisarticleshallbeeffective.Ifnoeffectivedateisspecified,theadjustmentsshallbemadeinallowancespayablefortimecommencingonthefirstdayofthemonthfollowingtheadoptionoftheordinance.


§31879. Adoption of either this article or Article 16.5 or both; effect of adoption of both articlesAnycountymayadoptorreadoptthisarticlealonefortimetotime,adoptArticle

16.5alone,oradoptthisarticleandArticle16.5atthesametimeordifferenttimes.Ifbotharticlesareadopted,anyaccumulatedincreasesinexcessoftwopercent(2%)peryearwhichareaccumulatedunderthisarticleshallbeapplicabletothecomputationoffutureallowanceadjustmentsasprovidedinArticle16.5andanyallowancewhichisincreasedasprovidedinthisarticleshallbesubjecttofutureincreaseordecreaseasprovidedinArticle16.5.


§31879.1. Adoption of this article and/or Article 16.5; accumulated increasesAnycountymayadoptorreadoptthisarticlealonefromtimetotime,adoptArticle

16.5alone,oradoptthisarticleandArticle16.5atthesametimeordifferenttimes.Ifbotharticlesareadopted,anyaccumulatedincreasesinexcessofthreepercent(3%)peryearwhichareaccumulatedunderthisarticleshallbeapplicabletothecomputationoffutureallowanceadjustmentsprovidedinArticle16.5andanyallowancewhichisincreasedasprovidedinthisarticleshallbesubjecttofutureincreaseordecreaseasprovidedinArticle16.5.


§31879.2. Adoption of either this article or Article 16.5 or both; accumulated increasesAnycountymayadoptorreadoptthisarticlealonefromtimetotime,adoptArticle16.5

alone,oradoptthisarticleandArticle16.5atthesametimeordifferenttimes.Ifbotharticles

Article16.6,§31876.-§31879.2.351

are adopted, any accumulated increases in excess of 5 percent per year which are accumulated underthisarticleshallbeapplicabletothecomputationoffutureallowanceadjustmentsasprovidedinArticle16.5andanyallowancewhichisincreasedasprovidedinthisarticleshallbesubjecttofutureincreaseordecreaseasprovidedinArticle16.5.


Article 17Integration with Federal Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance


§31880. Mandatory integrationEachcountyhavingapopulationinexcessoffivemillion,whichhasnotalready

integrated its retirement system with the federal system, shall effect such integration pursuant tothisarticletobeoperativeasofadatespecifiedbytheboardofsupervisorstobenolaterthanJuly1,1964.


§31881. Incorporation of Article 13 by referenceExceptasotherwiseexpresslyprovidedinthisarticle,alloftheprovisionsofArticle13

ofthischapter(commencingwithSection31800)applyto,andareincorporatedbyreferenceinthisarticle.


§31882. Board“Board,”asusedinthisarticle,meanstheBoardofAdministrationofthePublic

Employees’RetirementSystem.(AmendedbyStats.1972,Ch.590,Sec.28)

§31883. Federal-state agreement“Federal-stateagreement”meanstheagreementoranymodificationthereofnow,

heretofore,orhereafterexecutedbytheboardpursuanttoSection218ofTitleIIoftheSocialSecurityAct.


§31884. Pension board“Pensionboard,”asusedinthisarticle,meanstheboardofretirement.(AddedbyStats.1963,Ch.2090,Sec.1)

§31885. Retirement system“Retirementsystem”meanstheretirementplanprovidedbythecountyforits

employeesunderthischapter.(AddedbyStats.1963,Ch.2090,Sec.1)

§31886. Policeman“Policeman”asusedinthisarticleincludessheriffs,undersheriffs,deputysheriffs

andanyotheremployeeofacountyinapositiondesignatedasapoliceman’spositionbythe

Article16.6,§31879.2.-Article17,§31886. 352

board;provided,anysuchpositionnamedhereinorasmaybedesignatedbytheboard,isnotcontrarytoanydefinition,rulingorregulationissuedbythefederalagencyrelatingtotheterm“policeman”forthepurposesofSection218(d)(5)(A)oftheSocialSecurityAct.


§31887. Fireman“Fireman,”asusedinthisarticle,meansanyemployeeinapositiondesignatedasa

fireman’spositionbytheboard;provided,suchdesignationisnotcontrarytoanydefinition,rulingorregulationrelatingtotheterm“fireman”issuedbythefederalagencyforthepurposesofSection218(d)(5)(A)oftheSocialSecurityAct.


§31888. Division of retirement system into those desiring, and those not desiring, federal coverageThepensionboardshalleffectadivisionintotwopartsexclusiveofthedivision

requiredbySection31891,forthepurposesofthisarticle,oftheretirementsystem.Onepartshallconsistofthosewhoareactivemembersoftheretirementsystemondivisiondate,andwhodonotdesirecoverageunderthefederalsystem;andthesecondpartshallconsistofthosewhoareactivemembersofthesystemondivisiondate,andwhodesirecoverageunderthefederalsystemandofthosewhobecomemembersofthesystemafterdivisiondate.Thedivisiondateshallbesetbythepensionboardsoastopermitmodificationofthefederal-stateagreementtoincludeservicesofemployeeswhoaremembersofthesecondpartofsaidsystem.


§31889. Method of divisionThedivisionshallbeconductedinaccordancewithSection218(d)(7)oftheSocial

SecurityActandapplicablefederalandboardrulesandregulations,bythepensionboard.(AddedbyStats.1963,Ch.2090,Sec.1)

§31890. Certification of division by governorUponreceivingevidencesatisfactorytohimwithrespecttoanydivisionofaretirement

systemthattheconditionsspecifiedinSection218(d)(7)oftheSocialSecurityActhavebeenmet,theGovernororanyotherstateofficialnoworhereafterauthorizedbyfederallaw,shallsocertifytothefederalagency.


§31891. Policemen and firemen deemed in separate retirement systemsForthepurposeofthisarticle,policemen,asdefinedinSection31886,andfiremen,as

definedinSection31887,shalleachbedeemedtobelongtoseparateretirementsystems.(AddedbyStats.1963,Ch.2090,Sec.1)

§31892. Federal benefits; vote of firemen or policemenWhenfederalbenefitsaretobeextendedtoanyfiremen’sorpolicemen’sposition

pursuanttothispartitshallbedoneonlybyavoteofsuchfiremenorpolicemenasprovidedinSection31801.


§31893. Agreement with federal agency for coverageThepensionboardshallapplytotheboardinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofthis

Article17,§31886.-§31893.353

article,andtheboardshallexecuteonbehalfoftheStateanagreementwiththefederalagencyfor the coverage of employees of the county under the federal system in conformity with the provisionsofSection218oftheSocialSecurityActandapplicablefederalregulations.


§31894. Agreement governing administrationNotwithstandingtheprovisionsofSection31893,however,beforetheboardshall

executeonbehalfoftheStateanagreementwiththefederalagencyashereinprovided,thepensionboardandtheboardshallenterintoawrittenagreement,whichagreementshallincludesuchprovisionsnotinconsistentwiththisarticlewhichtheboarddeemsnecessaryintheadministrationofthesaidfederalsystemasitaffectstheStateandthecountyanditsemployees.


Article 17.5Termination of Social Security in Counties with a Population Exceeding 6,000,000

(Article17.5addedbyStats.1982,Ch.1567,Sec.1;ApplicableasprescribedbySection31894.1)

§31894.1. Application of article; notice of intent to terminate benefitsThisarticleshallapplyonlyinacountywithapopulationexceeding6,000,000andshall

applyinthatcountyonlyiftheboardofsupervisorshasprovidednoticeofintenttoterminatebenefitsunderfederalsocialsecurity.


§31894.2. Advisory vote; cancellation of notice of intent; judicial proceeding to secure new benefitsAnycountywhichhasprovidedthenoticespecifiedinSection31894.1shallprovidea

voteoftheaffectedmembers,theresultsofwhichshallbeadvisorytotheboardofsupervisors.Theboardofsupervisorsmay,followingtheadvisoryvote,canceltheirnoticeofintenttowithdrawfromsocialsecurityatleast30dayspriortotheeffectivedateofterminationofcoverageunderthefederalsystem.

Nothinginthissectionshallbeconstruedtowaiveanyrightsthatemployeesmayhavetosecurebyappropriatejudicialproceedingnewbenefitscomparabletothoseprovidedunderthefederalsocialsecuritysystem.


§31894.3. Certification that board had obtained advisory vote of membersTheboardofsupervisorsshall,byresolution,certifytotheBoardofAdministration

ofthePublicEmployees’RetirementSystemthattheprovisionsofSection31894.2havebeencompliedwith.IntheeventthattheboardofsupervisorscannotcertifycompliancewiththeprovisionsofSection31894.2,theboardofsupervisorsshallcanceltheirnoticeofintenttowithdrawfromsocialsecurityatleast30dayspriortotheeffectivedateofterminationofcoverageunderthefederalsystem.


Article17,§31893.-Article17.5,§31894.3. 354

Article 18Adjustment to Fit Other Allowances


§31895. “Public agency” definedAsusedinthisarticle“publicagency”includesthefederalgovernmentoranyfederal

department or agency, this state, any other state or any state department or agency, a county, city,publiccorporation,orpublicdistrictofthisstateoranyotherstate.Section31478doesnotapplytothisarticle.


§31895.5. “Total benefits” definedAsusedinthisarticle,“totalbenefits”meanstheretirementallowanceorotherbenefit

payabletoanybeneficiarypursuanttotheprovisionsofthischapterplusanyothermonetarypaymentsduetothesamebeneficiaryfromanypublicagency.


§31896. Increase in allowance resulting in decrease in amount of monetary payments due beneficiaryIfanincreaseintheretirementallowanceorotherbenefitpayabletoanybeneficiary

pursuanttotheprovisionsofthischapter,whethersuchincreasebeginspriororsubsequentto the effective date of this article, results in the decrease of the amount of any monetary paymentsduetothesamebeneficiaryfromanypublicagency,suchretirementallowanceorotherbenefitshallbesoreducedastoresultinthemaximumtotalbenefitstosuchbeneficiary.


§31896.5. Change in effect of increase of retirement allowance or other benefit payable to beneficiaryIfthestatutes,ordinances,rules,regulations,orordersofanypublicagencyareso

changed, or if for any other reason the effect of the increase of the retirement allowance or other benefitpayabletoanybeneficiarypursuanttotheprovisionsofthischapterontheamountofanymonetarypaymentsduetothesamebeneficiarybysuchpublicagencyarechanged,theboardshalladjustsuchretirementallowanceorotherbenefit,butnottoanamountgreaterthanotherwiseauthorizedbythischaptersoastoresultinthemaximumtotalbenefitstosuchbeneficiary.


§31897. Provisions mandatory; information to board; procedure for ascertainment of factsTheprovisionsofthisarticlearemandatoryandnotsubjecttooptionorelectionby

anymemberorotherbeneficiary.Everysuchbeneficiaryshallinformtheboardofallfactsnecessaryinordertocomplywiththisarticle.Theboardshallascertainsuchfactsbysuchproceduresasitseesfittoadopt.


§31897.5. Liability for excess paymentIftheboardingoodfaithdiligentlyseekstoascertainallfactsnecessaryinorderto

complywiththisarticle,but,despitesucheffort,apaymentofaretirementallowanceorother

Chapter18,§31895.-§31897.5.355

benefittoanybeneficiaryismadewithouthavingbeenreducedasrequiredbythisarticle,neithertheboard,noranymemberthereof,noranypublicofficernorpublicemployeeshallbeliableforsuchexcesspayment.


§31897.6. Deduction of amount of advanced disability pension payments made to local safety members pursuant to specified Labor Code sections from member’s retroactive disability pension paymentsTheboardshalldeducttheamountofadvanceddisabilitypensionpaymentsmadetoa

localsafetymemberpursuanttoSection4850.3or4850.4oftheLaborCodefromthemember’sretroactivedisabilitypensionpayments.

Iftheretroactivedisabilityallowanceisnotsufficienttoreimbursethetotaladvanceddisabilitypensionpayments,anamountnogreaterthan10percentofthemember’smonthlydisabilityallowanceshallbedeductedandreimbursedtothelocalagencyuntilthetotaladvanceddisabilitypensionpaymentshavebeenrepaid.Thelocalsafetymemberandthissystemmayagreetoanyotherarrangementorscheduleforthemembertorepaytheadvanceddisabilitypensionpayments.


§31898. Reduction not to impair constitutional rightsAretirementallowanceorotherbenefitpayabletoabeneficiarypursuanttothischapter

shallnotbereducedpursuanttothisarticleifsuchreductionwouldimpairtheconstitutionalrightsofanyperson.


Chapter 3.9Internal Revenue Code County Compliance and Replacement Benefits Program

(Chapter3.9addedas“InternalRevenueCodeCountyComplianceandOptionalReplacementBenefitsProgram”byStats.1990,Ch.797(SB2327),Sec.3,EffectiveSeptember13,1990,was

amendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.7,toreadasnowappearing)

§31899. Purpose(a)Thepurposeofthischapteristoensurethefederaltax-exemptstatusofthecounty

employees’retirementsystems,topreservethedeferredtreatmentoffederalincometaxonpublicemployercontributionstopublicemployeepensions,andtoensurethatmembersareprovidedwithretirementandotherrelatedbenefitsthatarecommensurate,totheextentdeemedreasonable,withtheservicesrenderedwithoutviolatingtheintentandpurposesofSection415oftheInternalRevenueCode.

(b)Toachievethispurpose,thischapterincorporatescertainpensionpaymentlimitationsandelectsthe“grandfather”optioninSection415(b)(10)oftheInternalRevenueCode.Also,thischapterprovidesforcertainreplacementbenefits.

(c)OnorafterJanuary1,2013,theapplicationofthischapterislimitedasspecifiedinSection7522.43.

(AddedbyStats.1990,Ch.797(SB2327),Sec.3,EffectiveSeptember13,1990)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.8)(AmendedbyStats.2013,Ch.247(AB1380),Sec.50)

Chapter18,§31897.5.-Chapter3.9,§31899. 356

§31899.1. Definitions(a)ThedefinitionsinChapter3(commencingwithSection31450)ofthispartshallapply

tothischapter.(b)Theterm“InternalRevenueCode”includesallregulations,revenuerulings,notices,

andrevenueproceduresissuedbytheInternalRevenueService.(AddedbyStats.1990,Ch.797(SB2327),Sec.3,EffectiveSeptember13,1990)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.9)

§31899.2. First time members on or after January 1, 1990; payment limitations; grandfather election; counties of first class; application(a)InaccordancewithSection31899.3,theretirementbenefitsforanypersonwhofor

thefirsttimebecameamemberofthesystemonorafterJanuary1,1990,shallbesubjecttothepaymentlimitationsofSection415oftheInternalRevenueCode.TheretirementbenefitsforanypersonwhobecameamemberofthesystembeforeJanuary1,1990,alsoshallbesubjecttothepaymentlimitationsofSection415oftheInternalRevenueCodetotheextentthatthosebenefitsarenotexemptfromthoselimitationsunderthe“grandfather”electionthathasbeenmadeunderthatsectionandthissection.

(b)The“grandfather”electioninSection415(b)(10)oftheInternalRevenueCodeisherebymade.AllmembersofaretirementsystemwhojoinedthesystempriortoJanuary1,1990,areexemptfromtheSection415limitstotheextentpermittedbytheInternalRevenueCode.

(c)ThissectiondoesnotapplyinacountyofthefirstclassasdefinedinSection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961,whichcountyisinsteadsubjecttoArticle2.1(commencingwithSection31510)ofChapter3.

(AddedbyStats.1990,Ch.797(SB2327),Sec.3,EffectiveSeptember13,1990)(AmendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.10)

§31899.3. Impact of I.R.C. upon retirement rights; notice to employers; counties of first class(a)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,theretirementrightsconferredby

thischapterandbyChapter3(commencingwithSection31450)ofthispartuponanypersonwhoforthefirsttimebecomesamemberofaretirementsystemonorafterJanuary1,1990,shallbesubjecttothelimitationsintheInternalRevenueCodeuponbenefitsthatmaybepaidbypublicretirementsystems.Thatpersonmaynothaveanyretirementrightorbenefitthatexceedsthoselimitations,andnoretirementrightorbenefitmayaccruetoorvestinthatpersonunderChapter3(commencingwithSection31450)thatexceedsthoselimitations.Thatpersonmay,however,haveretirementrightsandbenefitsunderthereplacementbenefitsprogramestablishedunderthischapter.

(b)Eachretirementboardshallprovidetoeachemployeranoticeofthecontentandeffectofsubdivision(a)fordistribution,priortoemployment,toeachpersonwhomaybecomeamemberandtoeachpersonwhoforthefirsttimebecomesamemberonorafterJanuary1,1990.

(c)Chapter3(commencingwithSection31450)shallbeconstruedasifitincludedthissection.

(d)ThissectiondoesnotapplyinacountyofthefirstclassasdefinedinSection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961,whichcountyisinsteadsubjecttoArticle2.1(commencingwithSection31510)ofChapter3.

(FormerlySection31673.1,addedbyStats.1989,Ch.1448,Sec.2,EffectiveOctober2,1989)

Chapter3.9,§31899.1.-§31899.3.357

(RenumberedSection31899.4andamendedbyStats.1990,Ch.797(SB2327),Sec.2.5,EffectiveSeptember13,1990)

(RenumberedSection31899.3andamendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.11)

§31899.4. Replacement benefits program(a)Eachcountyanddistrictshallprovideaprogramtoreplacethebenefitsthatare

limitedbySection415oftheInternalRevenueCodeformemberswhoseretirementbenefitsarelimitedbySection415andcannotbefullymaximizedpursuanttoSection31538.Thereplacementbenefitsprogramshallprovidebenefitsthat,togetherwiththebenefitsprovidedbytheretirementsystem,arethesameas,andmaynotexceed,thebenefitsthatwouldbepaidbytheretirementsystembutfortheapplicationofthelimitsofSection415.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the county or district may modify its replacement benefitsprogramandmayadd,modify,oreliminateanyreplacementbenefits,asnecessary,tocarryoutthepurposeofthischapter.Areplacementbenefitmaynotbereducedifthereductionwouldimpairthevestedrightsofanyperson.

(b)EachcountyshallestablishandadministeritsownreplacementbenefitsprogramformemberswhoseretirementbenefitsarelimitedbySection415oftheInternalRevenueCode.

(c)Acountymay,pursuanttoacontractwithadistrict,agreetoadministerthedistrict’sreplacementbenefitsprogramforthedistrict’smemberswhoseretirementbenefitsarelimitedbySection415oftheInternalRevenueCode.Thecountymaychargeeachdistrictareasonablefeeforadministeringthedistrict’sprogramandthecountyanddistrictmayagreeonanyotherconditionsrelatingtothatadministration.Ifadistrictdoesnotcontractwiththecountytoadministeritsreplacementbenefitsprogram,itshallestablishandadministeritsownreplacementbenefitsprogram.

(d)Upontherecommendationoftheretirementsystem’sactuary,andinaccordancewithitsobligationtorecommendcountyanddistrictcontributionratesunderSections31453and31453.5,theboardshalladjustthecontributionsrequiredtobemadebyacountyordistricttotheextentthatbenefitsarepayableunderareplacementbenefitsprogramofthatcountyordistrict.

(e)Thecounty,andanydistrictthatestablishesandadministersitsownprogram,shallenactanordinanceorprescriberegulationsorotherwrittendocumentationsettingforththetermsofitsreplacementbenefitsprogram.

(f)Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionofthischapter,acountyofthefirstclass,asdefinedinSection28020,asamendedbyChapter1204oftheStatutesof1971,andSection28022,asamendedbyChapter43oftheStatutesof1961,isnotrequiredtoprovidereplacementbenefitstoanymemberunderthissectionifthatmemberparticipatesinGeneralPlanForSafetyPlanFunderArticle2.1(commencingwithSection31510)ofChapter3.


§31899.5. Administration of replacement benefits programEachcounty,andeachdistrictthatestablishesitsownreplacementbenefitsprogram,

shalladministerthereplacementbenefitsprogramestablishedbyitpursuanttothischapter.Theboardmay,pursuanttoanagreementwiththecountyorthedistrictthatestablishesitsownprogram,assistintheadministrationofthereplacementbenefitsprogramtotheextentpermittedundertheInternalRevenueCode.


§31899.6. Nonconformity with I.R.C. Sec. 415; inoperative effect on chapterIftheInternalRevenueServicedeterminesthatanyprovisionofChapter3(commencing

Chapter3.9,§31899.3.-§31899.6. 358

withSection31450)ofthispartorthischaptercannotbegiveneffectwithoutplacingaretirementsystemadministeredunderthischapterorChapter3(commencingwithSection31450)ofthispartoutofconformitywithSection415oftheInternalRevenueCode,thatprovision, only to the extent that it causes that nonconformity and only with respect to the affectedpartiesshallbecomeinoperativewithrespecttothepaymentofbenefitspursuanttoChapter3(commencingwithSection31450)ofthispart,asoftheeffectivedateofthedetermination.TheretirementboardshallnotifytheSecretaryofStateofinoperationunderthissection.

(FormerlySection31899.7,addedbyStats.1990,Ch.797(SB2327),Sec.3,EffectiveSeptember13,1990)


§31899.7. Exclusion of public retirement systems; invalidation of application of I.R.C. Sec. 415; inoperation of chapter; action by retirement board(a)IfSection415oftheInternalRevenueCodeisamendedtoexcludepublicretirement

systems,oriftheapplicationofSection415oftheInternalRevenueCodetopublicretirementsystemsisinvalidatedbythefinaldecisionofanappellatecourtofproperjurisdiction,allsectionsofthischapter,exceptthissection,shallbecomeinoperativeasoftheeffectivedateofthatamendmentordecision.TheretirementboardshallimmediatelynotifytheSecretaryofStatewheneveranyprovisionofthischapterbecomesinoperativepursuanttothissection.

(b)Wheneverallsectionsofthischapter,exceptthissection,becomeinoperativepursuanttothissection,andtotheextentnotprohibitedbytheInternalRevenueCode,theretirementboard,county,anddistrictsshalldoallofthefollowing:

(1)RemovethepensionlimitationsimposedbySection415oftheInternalRevenueCodeforprospectivepaymentstoannuitants.

(2)Eliminatethereplacementbenefits,andpaybenefitsthataredueunderthesystemtotheaffectedannuitantswithoutregardtoanylimitationsofSection415oftheInternalRevenueCode.

(3)Takeanyandallotheractionstheydeemnecessaryandfeasible.(FormerlySection31899.8,addedbyStats.1990,Ch.797(SB2327),Sec.3,Effective

September13,1990)(RenumberedSection31899.7andamendedbyStats.2003,Ch.520(AB1585),Sec.17)

§31899.8. Legislative intent; compliance with I.R.C.; legislative findings and declarations; costsItisthesoleintentoftheLegislature,inenactingthischapter,tofullycomplywiththe

provisionsoftheInternalRevenueCodethatapplytopublicretirementsystemsinordertomaintainandensurethefederalincometaxexemptstatusofthecountyemployees’retirementsystems,toelectthe“grandfather”optioninSection415(b)(10)oftheInternalRevenueCode,andtorequirethateachcountyanddistrictprovidebenefitsthatreplacethebenefitsthatarelimitedbySection415oftheInternalRevenueCodeforaffectedmembersofthecountyemployees’retirementsystems.

TheLegislaturefindsanddeclaresthatallcostsoflocalpublicagenciesandlocalpublicretirementsystemsofcomplyingwithSection415oftheInternalRevenueCodeareafederalmandatewithinthemeaningofSection6ofArticleXIIIBoftheCaliforniaConstitutionandPart7(commencingwithSection17500)ofDivision4ofTitle2,asconstruedinCityofSacramentov.StateofCalifornia(50Cal.3d51).

ItistheintentoftheLegislaturethatthischapternotbeconstruedtoimposeuponlocalpublicagenciesthataremaintainingcountyretirementsystemspursuanttoChapter

Chapter3.9,§31899.6.-§31899.8.359

3(commencingwithSection31450)ofthispart,state-reimbursable,state-mandatedlocalprogrambenefitcostswithinthemeaningofSection6ofArticleXIIIBoftheCaliforniaConstitutionandPart7(commencingwithSection17500)ofDivision4ofTitle2.

IfeithertheCommissiononStateMandatesoracourtdeterminesthatthischapterimposesuponanylocalagency,state-mandatedlocalprogrambenefitcosts,notwithstandinganyotherprovisionoflaw,noreimbursementthereforshallbemadefromtheStateMandatesClaimsFundpursuanttoPart7(commencingwithSection17500)ofDivision4ofTitle2orfromanyotherstatefund.



§31899.9. Amendment of chapter; reservation of power; memorandums of understandingThe Legislature reserves the power and right to amend this chapter, as needed to

effectitspurposes.ThischaptershallbecontrollingoveranymemorandumofunderstandingreachedbetweenemployersandemployeespursuanttoChapter10(commencingwithSection3500)ofDivision4ofTitle1.



§31899.10. (Renumbered Section 31899.9 and amended by Stats. 2003, Ch. 520 (AB 1585), Sec. 19)

Chapter3.9,§31899.8.-§31899.10. 360

Documents

County Employees Retirement Law of 1937 (CERL)vcportal.ventura.org/VCERA/docs/publications/2014_County_Employe… · Title 3, Division 4, Part 3, Chapter 3 and 3.9 Excerpts from Sections