1006.Retirement System Coverage Groups

1006.1Can employees covered by a State or local retirement system also be covered for Social Security under a Section 218 agreement?

Yes. Employees covered by a State or local retirement system can be covered for Social Security under a Section 218 agreement (see §1000.2) after a referendum is held. The referendum is held under the State's authorization. (See §1018).

1006.2What employees are eligible to vote in a referendum?

To be eligible to vote in a referendum, you must be:

1. A member of the retirement system at the time the referendum is held; and

2. In a position under the retirement system when:

   1. The notice of referendum is given; and

   2. The referendum is held.

1006.3What does a retirement system coverage group consist of?

The state has the option to include any of the following in a retirement system coverage group:

1. All employees in positions under the retirement system;

2. Only employees of the State in positions under the system;

3. Employees of one or more political subdivisions in positions under the system;

4. Any combination of the groups referred to in (B) and (C);

5. Employees of a hospital that is an integral part of a political subdivision;

6. Employees of two or more hospitals. Each hospital must be an integral part of the same political subdivision; or

7. Employees in each institution of “higher learning,” (e.g., colleges, junior colleges, and teacher's colleges).

Generally, a retirement system coverage group includes: (1) all current members of the retirement system; (2) employees who are ineligible for membership; and (3) employees who can choose to become members of the retirement system.

Some States may divide a retirement system and cover only members who want coverage and new members as in §1008.