Parity for Tribal Educators Act

This bill, known as the Parity for Tribal Educators Act, would allow employees of tribally controlled schools to receive pensions through the Federal Employees Retirement System and contribute to the Thrift Savings Plan. It applies specifically to teachers and staff working at schools that operate under contracts or grants from the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act or the Tribally Controlled Schools Act of 1988. Under the bill, the Bureau of Indian Affairs would make the required government contributions to these retirement plans, though employees could choose to opt out of this coverage if they prefer. The legislation also establishes procedures for employees to decline participation in the federal retirement system if they wish.