Federal Legislation & Regulations

Unlike private-sector pensions that are preempted from State and local laws and subject solely to federal regulation, state and local retirement systems are creatures of state constitutional, statutory and case law and must comply with a vast landscape of public statutes, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures.

For this reason, many of the federal requirements for corporate pensions do not apply to plans of state and local government. However, public plans must still comply with various Federal tax qualification, investment, age discrimination, and other requirements. Congress sets the federal laws in these areas, and various federal agencies issue and enforce the corresponding regulations. 

Key Congressional Committees and Federal Agencies

 


Become A Member

Becoming a member of NASRA offers a unique opportunity to join a community committed to the sound, efficient, and innovative stewardship of public retirement systems. Membership connects you with a network of professionals and experts, providing valuable insights into managing public retirement systems with a focus on sustainability and risk-averse strategies.

By joining NASRA, you gain the tools and resources to enhance the management of public retirement systems, ensuring their long-term success and reliability for generations to come.


 

What's New at NASRA: Latest Update on Employee Contributions to Public Pensions

NASRA updates six key briefs annually on public pension management. The latest focuses on employee contributions to public pensions. Unlike private sector pensions, state and local government employees contribute to their retirement benefits, a crucial practice for stable pension funding. Post-2008 financial downturn, many plans increased these contributions. This brief examines the contribution plans’ design, policies, and trends, underlining their importance in pension sustainability.