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Assembly approves SB 301 barring selective pension exclusions under CERL after heated floor exchange
Summary
The Assembly passed SB 301 (Grayson) to prohibit selective exclusion of employee groups under the County Employees’ Retirement Law of 1937; proponents framed it as protecting retirement security while opponents warned of rising taxpayer costs. The measure passed 56–2.
The California State Assembly approved SB 301 on July 17, a bill that bars cities and districts contracting under the County Employees’ Retirement Law of 1937 (CERL) from amending contracts in a way that selectively excludes certain groups of employees. Assemblymember McKenner presented the bill on behalf of Senator Grayson, saying the measure aligns CERL and the Public Employees’ Retirement Law (PERL) and protects retirement security for public employees.
Opposition from Assemblymember DeMayo highlighted concerns about pension liabilities and fiscal impact, arguing the bill would lock in current benefits and limit local ability to reform future hires’ retirement packages. On the floor he raised the “California rule” and warned that voters and taxpayers would bear the long-term cost if benefits cannot be reformed for new employees.
After debate and a closing statement by McKenner, the Assembly passed SB 301 by roll call: ayes 56, noes 2.
Vote: Ayes 56, Noes 2. The bill passed and will move forward according to the legislative process.
