Policies & Governance

Strong governance is the foundation of SCERS’ ability to protect retirement security. Guided by state law and the California Constitution, SCERS operates under a clear set of bylaws and policies that define responsibilities, set standards, and ensure accountability. These documents provide the framework for how the Board of Retirement and staff make decisions, manage investments, and administer benefits.

Legal Authority

SCERS was established under the County Employees Retirement Law of 1937 (CERL) and is further governed by the Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA). In addition, Article XVI, Section 17 of the California Constitution grants the SCERS Board of Retirement plenary authority and fiduciary responsibility over the administration of the system and the investment of its assets.

This fiduciary responsibility means trustees must act exclusively in the best interest of members and beneficiaries, exercising the highest standard of care, skill, and diligence.

Board Bylaws

The Bylaws of the Board of Retirement set the rules for how the Board conducts business. They cover procedures for meetings, elections of officers, committee assignments, and responsibilities of trustees. The bylaws ensure that the Board operates transparently, consistently, and in compliance with its legal obligations.

Board Policies

The Retirement Board has added further direction to statutes and bylaws by adopting policies and procedures in key areas of benefits, funding, administrative operations, and investments. All policies are available to the public and are reviewed periodically to ensure they reflect best practices and evolving legal requirements.

Why It Matters

Policies and governance aren’t just internal rules—they are the safeguards that protect members’ retirement benefits. They ensure decisions are made with integrity, assets are invested prudently, and members can trust that their system is being managed in a professional, transparent, and accountable way.