S7567A

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday that would equalize death benefits for judges with those provided to other public employees, addressing what sponsors called the "Death Gamble Bill" problem. Senate Print 7567A, sponsored by Sen. Sepúlveda, amends the Retirement and Social Security Law to ensure that if a judge dies while in office, the judge's family receives the same retirement benefits the judge would have received had he or she lived to retire. Currently, judges' families receive only a small one-time payment significantly less than standard retirement benefits. The bill passed on a 60-0 vote. Sen. Sepúlveda argued the legislation corrects an injustice by treating judges the same as police officers, teachers, and other public employees. Sen. Bailey noted the measure has support from bar associations and Supreme Court Justice associations who view it as essential protection for the judiciary. Sen. Jackson, chair of the Civil Service and Pensions Committee, emphasized the importance of ensuring families receive adequate benefits regardless of whether death occurs in office or after retirement. The bill takes effect immediately.