Legislative Update AB 196/SB 170
One bill with broad, bipartisan support is currently stalled in committee. With limited session days remaining, it is critical that Assembly Bill 196 / Senate Bill 170 – Rehired Annuitants advance to clear both committees so it can hopefully reach the Governor’s desk.
I encourage you to work with your district leadership team to share your support for this important legislation. Using the talking points below and your district’s unique story, please consider sending an email to your legislators as well as all members of the Senate and Assembly committees where the bill is awaiting a vote (email addresses included below). To find your legislators, please use this link.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to SAA if you have any questions. If you’re able to connect with legislators, I’d love to see the responses you receive and am happy to offer any support you might need as those conversations continue.
Sample Message
Subject: Support for AB 196 / SB 170 – Rehired Annuitants
Dear Chairmen and Committee Members,
Respectfully, I request that you schedule a vote for AB 196 / SB 170 in your respective committees. This legislation provides schools and public employers with a direct and effective tool to address urgent staffing shortages. It allows retirees to return to service without compromising the long-term integrity of the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS), ensuring sustainability and security for all members. The current 75-day break-in-service requirement remains in place.
This bill addresses real needs in our classrooms—particularly in hard-to-fill positions such as special education, computer science, mathematics, physics, advanced placement courses, and music. Retired educators bring invaluable experience and institutional knowledge, allowing them to step into classrooms with minimal onboarding and an immediate positive impact.
Under current law, retirees may return to private-sector employment without suspending their annuity. This legislation extends that flexibility to public employers, helping school districts and other public entities meet critical workforce needs. Across Wisconsin, districts are already relying on retired teachers who have suspended their WRS benefits to fill essential positions. This bill makes that process more sustainable and effective, allowing schools to focus on students rather than vacancies.
Thank you for your consideration and leadership on this important issue.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title / District]
Committee Contact List (Copy and paste into your “To” or “Cc” field as needed.)
Senate Committee
Assembly Committee
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