The Senate Standing Committee on Civil Service and Pensions convened on April 29, 2025, for its fifth meeting of the legislative session. Chaired by Senator Robert Jackson, the meeting included Senators Scarcellus Banton, Cooney, McDonald, Parker, White, and Matara, all of whom were present either in person or via submitted voting sheets, confirming a quorum.
The committee began by discussing Senate Bill S3960, introduced by Senator Jackson. This bill aims to amend retirement and social security contributions for certain Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) to facilitate a 25-year reduction in their service goals. Following a brief discussion, the bill was moved and passed with a vote of 6 to 0, and it will be forwarded to the finance committee for further consideration.
Next, the committee reviewed Senate Bill S5058, also introduced by Senator Jackson. This bill pertains to required manual service, and after addressing questions from committee members, it was similarly moved and passed, with plans to report it to the finance committee.
Senate Bill S6068, presented by Senator Parker, was then discussed. This legislation focuses on the creation of an annual report regarding race and ethnic data of individuals who have experienced civil service discrimination. The committee engaged in a brief discussion before moving the bill forward.
The committee continued with Senate Bill S6750, which addresses various laws related to military time and social security. After a motion to move the bill was seconded, it passed with a vote of 7 to 0 and will also be reported to the finance committee.
Lastly, Senator Jackson introduced Senate Bill S6989, which was acknowledged but not elaborated upon in the transcript.
The meeting concluded with a clear progression through the agenda, with all discussed bills set to advance to the finance committee for further evaluation. The committee's focus on civil service and pension issues reflects ongoing efforts to address the needs of state employees and ensure equitable treatment within the system.