State Rep. Mike Harris on Wednesday secured House passage of his plan to allow dedicated public servants to continue serving their communities without risking their hard-earned retirement benefits.

“Retirement looks different for everyone. Some people vacation, some spend more time with family, some decide to go back to work. Many choose some combination of all three. Whatever that choice may be, retirement should never mean less opportunity,” said Harris, R-Waterford. “These years should be lived freely, without fear of losing benefits because a retiree decides to continue serving their communities. At a time when communities are calling for stronger public safety and more efficient government services, we should be clearing a path for experienced professionals to continue serving, even if it’s technically a retirement job.”

Across Michigan, county sheriff’s offices and prosecutor’s offices are facing significant staffing challenges. These shortages impact public safety, delay case processing, and place added strain on the professionals already serving our communities. At the same time, retired professionals with years of experience are willing and able to help, but current state law prevents them from doing so.

House Bill 4471 would allow retired county employees, including those who worked in sheriff’s offices and prosecutor’s offices, to return to public service without forfeiting their retirement benefits.

The plan now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

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