St. Paul Reporter

Minnesota State Representative Ben Bakeberg has announced new developments in pension reform for educators. The legislature has passed a law allowing teachers to retire early at age 60 with 30 years of service. This provision, based on House File 2329, aims to provide more flexibility for long-serving educators as they approach retirement.

Bakeberg highlighted the significance of this measure, stating, "This session, a key part of our pension reform work became reality. Teachers will now have access to early retirement at age 60 with 30 years of service.  This new option is modeled on our bill, House File 2329 and is a major win for educators who’ve committed their careers to the classroom and need more flexibility as they approach retirement."

He also emphasized that further efforts are underway: "But let me be clear: this is just the beginning."

The next step involves advocating for an unreduced pension option at age 62 with 30 years of service through House File 2318. According to Bakeberg, "We are continuing to push for a true 'career rule'—an unreduced pension for educators at age 62 with 30 years of service (House File 2318). This would bring Minnesota in line with many other states and recognize the full value of a lifelong career in education."

To address funding concerns related to these reforms, lawmakers considered proposals such as adjusting school meal eligibility requirements. Under one proposal, breakfast would remain free for all students while high-income families—defined as those earning over $188,250 annually for a family of five—would contribute toward lunch costs. Lawmakers estimate this change could save over $470 million across four years.

Bakeberg explained why these savings matter: "These savings could fully fund the 62/30 pension bill and deliver $40 million more each year to our local schools to reduce class sizes, hire more teachers, and give you the tools you need to succeed in the classroom."

He concluded by encouraging continued engagement from educators: "This work only moves forward because educators like you are engaged. Your stories, your input, and your advocacy make all the difference."

Bakeberg invited feedback from constituents and reaffirmed his commitment to representing their interests at the Capitol.