CalSTRS board authorizes rulemaking to implement AB 1997; members and public discuss HR 82

The CalSTRS board voted Nov. 7 to begin preliminary regulatory rulemaking needed to implement AB 1997, the recently signed state statute meant to simplify rules on credible compensation and credible service. Director of Governmental Relations Joycelyn Martinez Wade and Employer Services Director Jeff Zimmer described the statute's aims and the work ahead to revise regulations, update electronic employer reporting formats and prepare Benefit Connect for the July 1, 2027 effective date.

Wade asked the board to approve initiation of preliminary rulemaking activities to resolve statutory details that do not appear directly in the bill text; trustees moved, seconded and approved the request by roll-call vote. Jeff Zimmer said staff have begun outreach planning, training curriculum redesign and Benefit Connect changes so employers, unions and members can align with the new rules.

On the federal front, staff briefed trustees on developments around HR 82, the proposal to repeal the Government Pension Offset. Joycelyn noted movement in the U.S. House and a narrowed path after election-day maneuvers. During public comment, Susie Dixon, president of CalRTA, told trustees she is coordinating with coalition partners and asserted "parliamentary procedure was not followed" in a House action related to HR 82; other public commenters and union representatives described a sustained advocacy effort and promised follow-up in Washington, D.C.

The board did not take a legislative-position vote beyond authorizing the required state-level rulemaking for AB 1997.