New Ohio law impacts poll workers

For the first time, election officials are no longer considered OPERS members

By Michael Pramik, Ohio Public Employees Retirement System

Sept. 3, 2026 – With Election Day approaching, OPERS members and retirees should know about a recent change affecting those who work at the polls.

Ohio House Bill 96, which took effect Sept. 30, 2025, changed how OPERS treats service as a precinct election official, the position formerly commonly called an “election worker” or “poll worker.” Section 145.012 of the Ohio Revised Code now exempts anyone appointed as a precinct election official from OPERS membership for that service. Precinct election officials must be qualified voters and serve as election officers for their precincts.

Because precinct election officials no longer participate in OPERS for this service, the amount they earn working at the polls during a calendar year no longer affects their OPERS membership status.

If you have questions about becoming a precinct election official, contact your local board of elections.

Michael Pramik

Michael Pramik is communication strategist for the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System and editor of the PERSpective blog. As an experienced business journalist, he clarifies complex pension policies and helps members make smart choices to secure their retirement.