Changes to judges’ retirement contributions adopted

Lawmakers passed a bill May 29 that extends an increase in Nebraska judges’ retirement contribution rates.

LB306, introduced by Omaha Sen. Jeremy Nordquist, removes the pending July 1, 2014, sunset on a 1 percent employee contribution rate increase that was established in 2009.

The bill incorporates provisions of LB229, a bill Nordquist also introduced, removing a scheduled July 1, 2014 sunset of an additional $1 fee on various court filings that was added in 2009. The fee increase is directed to the Judges Retirement Plan and will help offset any unfunded liabilities.

The bill passed on a 41-6 vote.