Governor Jay Inslee’s proclamation related to the COVID-19 outbreak, which waived return-to-work restrictions for retirees in specific retirement systems and plans, has expired; it was in effect through July 1, 2020. The previous return-to-work laws resumed on July 2.

The governor’s proclamation, provided retirees in the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS), the Public Safety Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS) and the Law Enforcement Officers’ and Fire Fighters’ Retirement System Plan 2 (LEOFF 2) the option to return to work without suspension of their pension benefits.

Retirees listed above are again restricted in the number of hours they may work for a DRS-covered employer before their benefits are suspended. Individuals who retired under the 2008 Early Retirement Factors (ERF) may not return to work before age 65 without full suspension of benefits.

Hours worked while the proclamation was in place will not count toward yearly hourly limits.

It is important to note that retirees must have a 30-day break in service and no prior agreement with their employer to return to employment. Retirees who have questions about returning to work should consult with the employer or contact DRS.