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Commissioners approve first reading of home‑rule pension amendment adding line‑of‑duty death benefit
Summary
On first reading, the board approved a home‑rule ordinance to add a death benefit for plan participants who die in the line of duty on or after Oct. 1, 2026, with a second reading and final adoption scheduled for Aug. 25, 2026.
The Board approved on first reading a home‑rule amendment to the DeKalb County pension code that would add a line‑of‑duty death benefit for plan participants who die on or after Oct. 1, 2026.
Staff described the item as a housekeeping and clarifying amendment that also implements updates required by federal tax law and makes explicit that once pension benefit payments begin a participant may not add, replace or remove a designated joint annuitant. Staff recommended adopting the June 15, 2026 version on first reading and deferring for a second reading and final action on Aug. 25, 2026.
A resident who spoke during the public hearing asked whether the proposed language would prevent a retiree from redirecting benefits if a designated beneficiary predeceases the retiree; staff said they would provide a written clarification. The motion to adopt on first reading and defer to Aug. 25 carried at the meeting.
