Retired teachers in New Mexico are allowed to return to the classroom for three years without losing their retirement benefits.
In May, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed a measure containing the amendment into law. It was approved by the legislature and became effective immediately. “This is a win-win for New Mexico teachers and New Mexico students, as retired educators can now go back into classrooms without losing their hard-earned retirement benefits,” Grisham said in a statement. “I thank the dedicated professionals who go back to the classroom.”
It was applauded by the state’s chapter of the American Federation of Teachers. “House Bill 73 is a great example of proactive legislation addressing New Mexico’s urgent need to staff our schools with quality educators,” AFT New Mexico President Whitney Holland said in a statement. “We already know this legislation is working, with many of our retired members actively pursuing a return to the classroom, which is a win for our students, our communities, and our profession.”
The governor’s office said that retirees must first get clearance from the state’s Educational Retirement Board before returning to the classroom.
