The State Retirement and Pension System administers death, disability and retirement benefits on behalf of more than 279,000 active and former State employees, teachers, State police, judges, law enforcement officers, correctional officers and legislators. The State of Maryland is the primary sponsor of this multi-employer defined benefit system; over 100 local eligible governmental agencies voluntarily participate in the System as well. The State Retirement and Pension System provides important coverage both during a member`s working career and after members retire.