HB 2034 and the LEOFF Pension System: What Washington Law Enforcement Needs to Know in 2026
Washington State's HB 2034 is the most significant piece of LEOFF pension legislation in decades. For members of the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters, and every active LEOFF Plan 1 and Plan 2 member statewide, this bill has direct implications for retirement planning decisions that must be made before June 10, 2026.
Current Status of HB 2034
01
Passed House of Representatives
On February 14, 2026, by a vote of 55–39.
02
Delivered to Governor's Desk
On March 12, 2026.
03
Pending Signature
As of the date of this publication, the bill awaits the Governor's signature.
When signed into law, HB 2034 will terminate the LEOFF Plan 1 fund under its current legal framework by June 30, 2029 and direct the transfer of the fund's surplus — projected to reach approximately $4 billion, representing roughly 225% funded status — to other state purposes as designated by the Legislature.
$4B
Projected Surplus
Estimated surplus from the LEOFF Plan 1 fund.
225%
Funded Status
Representing the financial health of the LEOFF Plan 1 fund.
Members should monitor the Governor's office for signature confirmation. The legislative text is available at app.leg.wa.gov. The Washington State Department of Retirement Systems maintains updated information for members at drs.wa.gov.
What the Bill Does — Key Provisions
HB 2034 contains several provisions directly relevant to LEOFF members:
Termination of LEOFF Plan 1
The bill terminates LEOFF Plan 1 under its current structure by June 30, 2029. LEOFF Plan 1 was closed to new members in 1977. The remaining approximately 5,000 active Plan 1 members and their beneficiaries are directly affected.
Surplus Transfer
The projected $4 billion surplus in the LEOFF Plan 1 fund — built up through decades of contributions and investment returns — is directed to other state purposes under the bill. The specific allocation is determined by the Legislature.
Member Notification Deadline
HB 2034 establishes a member notification deadline of June 10, 2026. This deadline creates a defined window within which LEOFF members should complete their retirement planning review, including any scenario analyses, before elections become permanent.
No Change to Existing Vested Benefits
The bill does not eliminate vested LEOFF Plan 1 benefits. Plan 1 members retain their earned pension rights. The termination applies to the fund structure, not to individual benefit entitlements. Members should confirm the specifics of their individual situation directly with DRS.