PENCD-GARS-TIER 3 PLAN

Amends the General Assembly Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Requires the System to prepare and implement a Tier 3 plan by July 1, 2017 that aggregates State and employee contributions in individual participant accounts which are used for payouts after retirement. Provides that a person who becomes a participant on or after July 1, 2017 shall participate in the Tier 3 plan. Provides that a Tier 1 or Tier 2 participant may irrevocably elect to participate in the Tier 3 plan instead of the defined benefit plan; makes conforming changes. Authorizes a Tier 1 or Tier 2 participant who elects to participate in the Tier 3 plan to elect to terminate all participation in the defined benefit plan and to have a specified amount credited to his or her account under the Tier 3 plan. Requires the System to report on its progress in establishing the Tier 3 plan to the Governor and the General Assembly by January 15, 2017. Excludes the amendatory Act from the new benefit increase restrictions. Repeals certain provisions concerning a defined contribution plan added by Public Act 98-599. Authorizes a participant to terminate his or her participation in the System. Makes related changes in the Retirement Systems Reciprocal Act (Article 20 of the Code) and the State Employees Group Insurance Act of 1971. Effective immediately.