1000 Red River St. - Austin, Texas 78701 This week the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) announced that retired teachers will be receiving their one-time supplemental benefit check (commonly referred to as a 13th check) next Friday, January 14. Photographs and illustrations, as well as text, cannot be used without permission from AFT. The health of PERS has perhaps the greatest impact on our states credit rating., By joining our newsletter, you are confirming that you agree with the Privacy Policy, Frank Corder is a native of Pascagoula. 2021 Texas Standard. This would be the first 13th check retirees have received since 2007. EARLIER THIS YEAR: More than 400,000 retired Texas teachers receive 13th check today. Code Ann. 2006: $232,710,000 ($22 million) All PERS retirees and beneficiaries who have been receiving benefit payments for at least one full fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) are eligible to receive a COLA. The Texas Pension Coalition (TPC) worked hard for retired teachers in Texas to receive a 13th check. Last week, Texas lawmakers passed SB 12, which will provide a 13th check of up to $2,000 for retired teachers. A service of the Moody College of Communication at the University of Texas at Austin | Contact us, A service of the Moody College of Communication at the University of Texas at Austin. PERS Executive Director Pat Robertson sent the follow information: "What is often referred to as the 13th check is not a bonus, but, in reality, is simply a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) added to a retirement benefit to account for effects of inflation. WebNOW is the time for a meaningful and substantial COLA for TRS retirees. Members who retired before the end of 2020 or beneficiaries of a member who died before the end of 2020 are eligible. WebRetired Judges plan members will receive a 3.33% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) effective July 1, 2022. Questions arise about future of public retirees' 13th check, Former wrestler tied to TANF scandal pleads guilty to conspiracy in federal court, 42K Mississippians without power after strong winds cause outages, Request a First Alert Weather School Visit. These FAQs are a guide to common questions related to public benefits as a result of the 13th Check Payment. 6:57 PM on Jul 13, 2021 CDT. "Rumors are about 90 percent of the way things happen here at the Capitol and they're always based on something that was heard," added Representative Jay Hughes.Representatives Tom Miles and Jay Hughes have posted concerns over a rumor that there might be a push next year to do away with the "COLA" (13th check) for retirees during the coming session. Zeph Capo, president of the Texas American Federation of Teachers, says while a 13th check is most certainly helpful in mitigating some of the harm thats been done to retirees in the form of stagnant annuities, its certainly not enough. Instead, the teachers union would prefer lawmakers look at a permanent cost of living adjustment that ensures that the system will be able to keep up with inflation. The Legislature has provided 13th checks to retired teachers during each of the last two sessions, as well as in 2007. This 13th paycheck is a welcome gesture for retired teachers whose annuities have stagnated but can it make a long-term difference for retirees pocketbooks? where Lt. Gov. The bill gives retired teachers, counselors and school staff in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRST) who retired on or before Dec. 31, 2020, an additional, one-time retirement check. 2005: $211,530,000, As JJ states in their analysis, The funding level has fluctuated around 60% over the last five years despite two employer contribution increases of 300 basis points. The Texas AFT Legislative Team lobbied for and supported the passage of this bill but have continued to push legislators to pass a much needed and much overdue cost of living adjustment to permanently increase the regular monthly payments which TRS members receive. Its not fixing the structural problem we have with the system, he said. The Kentucky swimmer is an outspoken proponent for protecting biological females in athletic competition. Every year about this time we hear the unfortunate forecasts of being able to meet these obligations while funding other needs.. We shouldn't back up on it. 1. Gulf of Mexico warming at faster rate than global ocean, study finds, At these old-school restaurants in Texas, you feel like its an extension of your home, Greg Abbott says if these corporate tax breaks return, renewable energy should be excluded. For more information on the release of this one-time supplemental payment, check out the FAQ on the TRS website. The COLA is equal to 3 percent of a retiree's annual base benefit for each full fiscal year of retirement prior to the year in which he or she reaches age 55 (for those hired prior to July 1, 2011) or 60 (for those hired July 1, 2011, and after), plus 3 percent compounded for each fiscal year thereafter, beginning with the fiscal year in which he or she turns age 55 (for those hired prior to July 1, 2011) or 60 (for those hired July 1, 2011, and after). What I read is this is the foundation for taking away that promise. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate 31-0 and 145-1 in the House. Those using direct deposit to receive TRS pension checks will likely receive the deposit that same day, but there might be a slight delay in processing the deposit due to Martin Luther King Jr. bank holiday weekend. 1000 Red River St. - Austin, Texas 78701 "We made a commitment to our state employees," said Miles. And that's why the president of the Mississippi Alliance for Public Employees Brenda Scott is holding her breath for the session and asking retirees to pay attention. He is a frequent guest on radio and television, providing insight and commentary on the inner workings of the Magnolia State. The bill gives retired teachers, counselors and school staff in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRST) who retired on or before Dec. 31, 2020, an additional, one-time retirement check. But, we, and I mean all Mississippians, have to be willing to make hard decisions if we want our state to be financially viable for the future. Additionally, since 1994, retirees may receive the COLA in either monthly payments or in the lump sum form of a 13th check paid in December. A 13th check was first authorized by the Mississippi Legislature in 1966 as an additional check in December; however, Miss. "I think there's a tendency that people forget that the wall and halls of the Capitol talk and seem to leak out," said Representative Tom Miles. The payment has been dubbed a 13th check an addition to retired teachers monthly pension checks. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate 31-0 and 145-1 in the House. "The fact is that employees worked their career at the state for that promise. 2023 Indiana House Democratic Caucus. All PERS retirees and beneficiaries who have been receiving benefit payments for at least one full fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) are eligible to receive a COLA. Theyre completely dependent on the retirement check they receive from the state retirement system., Absent any broader action, Capo calls the 13th check a Band-Aid.. Amendment #2 to House Bill 1260 would have provided a $250 payment in 2022 to the Teachers' Retirement Fund (TRF) Capo argues that an adjustment is fair for former teachers degreed professionals paid far below what others in comparable industries are paid. The Senate can take action on the House bill as soon as the week of March 6. 2017: $603,318,841 ($43 million) Mississippi is no exception, Sen. Wiggins said. The COLA is equal to 3% of the annual retirement allowance for each full fiscal year of retirement up to the year in which the retired member reaches age 60 (55 for those who became members of PERS before July 1, 2011), with 3% compounded for each fiscal year thereafter. The Legislature has provided 13th checks to retired teachers during each of the last two sessions, as well as in 2007. Now it's time to follow that.". Franks interviews, articles, and columns have been shared throughout Mississippi as well as in national publications such as the Daily Caller. 1. INDIANAPOLIS State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis), Ranking Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee, today offered a proposal to provide a 13th check for retired teachers and state employees. HB 1028, 13 th check bill with a $50.00 increase from the last 13 th check paid in 2020, was passed unanimously by the House on February 14, 2023. The 13th check confused many retirees when it was distributed in mid-January, as their regular check came in that same month less than they expected. By Jill Ament and Wells DunbarAugust 31, 20212:18 pmBusiness & Your Money, Education, Government & Politics. 1000 Red River St. - Austin, Texas 78701 Millions of Texans have rare diseases. All rights reserved. Texas AFT represents all non-administrative certified and classified public school employees in the state of Texas. This week the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) announced that retired teachers will be receiving their one-time supplemental benefit check (commonly referred to as a 13th check) next Friday, January 14. 25-11-112 (Rev. Email Frank: frank@magnoliatribune.com. Allrights reserved. Teacher's Retirement System. The payment has been dubbed a 13th check an addition to retired teachers monthly pension checks. The 13th check confused many retirees when it was distributed in mid-January, as their regular check came in that same month less than they expected. Earning your trust every day. 1. Sen. Wiggins expects this discussion will be on the table as Appropriations works through the state budget process this session. HB 1028, 13 th check bill with a $50.00 increase from the last 13 th check paid in 2020, was passed unanimously by the House on February 14, 2023. "It doesn't matter what it's called," noted Hughes. But is it ultimately just a drop in the bucket? 2007: $255,939,000 ($23 million) The walkout in the Legislature could end up hitting retired teachers in their pockets. 2011: $368,645,000 ($30 million) Both the Texas House and Senate have unanimously approved a measure giving retired Texas public school teachers and staff a one-time check of up to $2,400. A 13th check, a one-time additional payment of up to $2,400, could be headed to retirees no later than January 2022, if approved in the special session Teachers who retired after Sept. 1, 2004 have never seen a cost-of-living increase to their pension plan. All PERS retirees and beneficiaries who have been receiving benefit payments for at least one full fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) are eligible to receive a COLA. The COLA benefit increase of 3.33% is based upon the state-mandated increase to the salary for actively employed judges and magistrates in positions covered by the Judges' Retirement System. Earning your trust every day. New State Treasurer David McRae will be delving into this issue, as well, given the impact on Mississippis credit rating. This week the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) announced that retired teachers will be receiving their one-time supplemental benefit check (commonly referred to as a 13th check) next Friday, January 14. This week the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) announced that retired teachers will be receiving their one-time supplemental benefit check (commonly referred to as a 13th check) next Friday, January 14. A 13th check, a one-time additional payment of up to $2,400, could be headed to retirees no later than January 2022, if approved in the special session "We should honor that commitment. This would be the first 13th check retirees have received since 2007. Providing a 13th check for our retired teachers is yet another way we can honor their commitment to our children and to the future of Texas. Texas AFT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers and AFL-CIO. $5 billion is currently sitting in our surplus, gathering dust, with even more expected in the coming year. The Senate can take action on the House bill as soon as the week of March 6. And there's talk on social media that it could be in jeopardy next session. All PERS retirees and beneficiaries who have been receiving benefit payments for at least one full fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) are eligible to receive a COLA. Passing Voting Bill Priority In Last Days Of Second Special Session, Orange Countys Running Two Hurricane Ida Shelters Amid Severe Coronavirus Spread, I Will Never Tell Anyone Theres No Hope San Antonio Afghans Who Helped US Troops Fear For Their Families, Sexually Harassed At Work? 2006) was amended in 1999 to provide for the automatic 3 percent annual benefit adjustment that is used to calculate COLA amounts. 2014: $476,401,043 ($38 million) It's known as the 13th check. The 2021 enacted state budget provided a one-percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to retired teachers and state employees in lieu of a 13th check, which is a one-time, post-retirement payment based on an individual's number of years vested in their retirement plan. The bill gives retired teachers, counselors and school staff in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRST) who retired on or before Dec. 31, 2020, an additional, one-time retirement check. Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports (CAFR). The bill was referred to the Senate on February 15. The amendment was ruled out of order and therefore not granted a vote. where Lt. Gov. We have a tremendous number of bus drivers, cafeteria workers and others that do not collect Social Security. The Legislature has provided 13th checks to retired teachers during each of the last two sessions, as well as in 2007. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate 31-0 and 145-1 in the House. COLAs help ensure that retiree purchasing power remains relatively the same no matter how long a retiree may live and how quickly prices might rise. 13th Check to Retired Teachers Will Be Issued in January 2022 Posted on September 17, 2021 by hinojosa AUSTIN, TX Today, the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) adopted a resolution directing TRS staff to prepare and issue the 13th check authorized by the Texas Legislature during the Second Called Special Session. WebNOW is the time for a meaningful and substantial COLA for TRS retirees. Advocates are pushing for legislation to help them. JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) - Public retirees get a cost of living adjustment added to their benefits every year. 2023 Magnolia Tribune. 13th Check to Retired Teachers Will Be Issued in January 2022 Posted on September 17, 2021 by hinojosa AUSTIN, TX Today, the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) adopted a resolution directing TRS staff to prepare and issue the 13th check authorized by the Texas Legislature during the Second Called Special Session. INDIANAPOLIS State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis), Ranking Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee, today offered a proposal to provide a 13th check for retired teachers and state employees. WebRetired Judges plan members will receive a 3.33% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) effective July 1, 2022. Both the Texas House and Senate have unanimously approved a measure giving retired Texas public school teachers and staff a one-time check of up to $2,400. Here Are 13 You Should Know. But he also points out participants in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, or TRS, are not only teachers. Providing a 13th check for our retired teachers is yet another way we can honor their commitment to our children and to the future of Texas. He says if there's every going to be a change, it may well be that. The COLA benefit increase of 3.33% is based upon the state-mandated increase to the salary for actively employed judges and magistrates in positions covered by the Judges' Retirement System. "People depend on that pension," Scott explained. Rep. Greg Bonnen, chair of the Appropriations Committee, pointed out that if retirees receive a 13th check this year and a COLA in the 2023 Legislative Session, theyd actually be receiving more money overall than they would have if a While PERS cannot predict the actions of the Legislaturethe only governing body with the authority to change retirement benefitsI feel confident that providing a COLA is recognized as being important to the retirement security of retirees.". The work needed to get the Legislature to pass a COLA for TRS retirees does not begin in January: it starts NOW. It's disappointing to see the supermajority once again place a rainy day fund over the everyday needs of hardworking Hoosiers, Porter said. Only the Texas Legislature can approve a COLA for TRS retirees. Teachers who retired after Sept. 1, 2004 have never seen a cost-of-living increase to their pension plan. Final passage of this bill into law will require the House Democrats who have fled the state to return to the House for a quorum. Amendment #2 to House Bill 1260 would have provided a $250 payment in 2022 to the Teachers' Retirement Fund (TRF) and PERF members. A one-time check up to $2,400 is a welcome gesture for retired teachers whose annuities have stagnated. The least this body can do is show our retired Hoosiers the respect they deserve and pay them what they are owed.. TRTA members, we are at a pivotal time. Earning your trust every day. Can I waive or disclaim my right to receive the supplement payment? The 13th check confused many retirees when it was distributed in mid-January, as their regular check came in that same month less than they expected. 6:57 PM on Jul 13, 2021 CDT. EARLIER THIS YEAR: More than 400,000 retired Texas teachers receive 13th check today. The walkout in the Legislature could end up hitting retired teachers in their pockets. 2008: $281,124,000 ($25 million) He made note that the "COLA" check isn't a real cost of living increase, saying that after the first three years it's an automatic 3% increase. Can I waive or disclaim my right to receive the supplement payment? The bill was referred to the Senate on February 15. Additionally, since 1994, retirees may receive the COLA in either monthly payments or in the lump sum form of a 13th check paid in December. Retired teachers in Texas have not received a cost-of-living increase since 2013. 2015: $517,283,072 ($41 million) This 13th paycheck is a welcome gesture for retired teachers whose annuities have stagnated but can it make a long-term difference for retirees pocketbooks? Copyright 2017 MSNewsNow. Occasionally, rumors circulate that the COLA will be eliminated or adjusted. Jackson Jambalaya recently provided an analysis of the PERS annual COLA, outlining the year-to-year data from the PERS Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports (CAFR), shown below: 2019: $699,947,000 ($50 million) The walkout in the Legislature could end up hitting retired teachers in their pockets. The Texas Pension Coalition (TPC) worked hard for retired teachers in Texas to receive a 13th check. Last week, Texas lawmakers passed SB 12, which will provide a 13th check of up to $2,000 for retired teachers. The work needed to get the Legislature to pass a COLA for TRS retirees does not begin in January: it starts NOW. 6:57 PM on Jul 13, 2021 CDT. Dr. Robert Taylor, the state's new Superintendent, says there is much to celebrate about Mississippis progress in public education. The bill headed to the Governor will add restrictions to the opening of any new physical locations of EV manufacturers within the state, forcing them to follow franchise laws. The bill was referred to the Senate on February 15. The COLA is equal to 3% of the annual retirement allowance for each full fiscal year of retirement up to the year in which the retired member reaches age 60 (55 for those who became members of PERS before July 1, 2011), with 3% compounded for each fiscal year thereafter. Retired teachers in Texas have not received a cost-of-living increase since 2013. Retired teachers in Texas have not received a cost-of-living increase since 2013. WebNOW is the time for a meaningful and substantial COLA for TRS retirees. While inflation may have been relatively modest in the last several years, the historical average is 3 percent (hence the 3 percent COLA). Just to say we're not going to touch your retirement. Amendment #2 to House Bill 1260 would have provided a $250 payment in 2022 to the Teachers' Retirement Fund (TRF) 2023 Copyright American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO. We represent the interests of teachers, counselors, librarians, diagnosticians, custodians, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, nurses, teaching assistants, clerical employees, and the other employees who make our schools work. That's an insult to the service of our retired teachers and state workers. These FAQs are a guide to common questions related to public benefits as a result of the 13th Check Payment. Amendment #2 to House Bill 1260 would have provided a $250 payment in 2022 to the Teachers' Retirement Fund (TRF) This 13th paycheck is a welcome gesture for retired teachers whose annuities have stagnated but can it make a long-term difference for retirees pocketbooks? The payment has been dubbed a 13th check an addition to retired teachers monthly pension checks. A 13th check, a one-time additional payment of up to $2,400, could be headed to retirees no later than January 2022, if approved in the special session For many, TRS may offer the only form of retirement income. The checks should be in an amount either equal to their regular annuity payment or $2,400, whichever is less. 2009: $312,471,000 ($31 million) Disclosure: As employees of the University of Texas at Austin, the staff on Texas Standard are members of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. Can I waive or disclaim my right to receive the supplement payment? Final passage of this bill into law will require the House Democrats who have fled the state to return to the House for a quorum. The work needed to get the Legislature to pass a COLA for TRS retirees does not begin in January: it starts NOW. HB 1028, 13 th check bill with a $50.00 increase from the last 13 th check paid in 2020, was passed unanimously by the House on February 14, 2023. Frank has served his community in both elected and appointed public office, hosted his own local radio and television programs, and managed private businesses all while being an engaged husband and father. These FAQs are a guide to common questions related to public benefits as a result of the 13th Check Payment. Built by Moticos Studios. Additionally, since 1994, retirees may receive the COLA in either monthly payments or in the lump sum form of a 13th check paid in December. It's nearly a month till lawmakers fill these hallways again but the chatter is already starting up. I look forward to my first meeting as a member of the PERS board next month and helping address this issue, Treasurer McRae told Yall Politics. 2012: $402,514,750 ($33 million) Rep. Greg Bonnen, chair of the Appropriations Committee, pointed out that if retirees receive a 13th check this year and a COLA in the 2023 Legislative Session, theyd actually be receiving more money overall than they would have if a I suspect these questions will continue to be asked as we enter the appropriations process.. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. where Lt. Gov. Rep. Greg Bonnen, chair of the Appropriations Committee, pointed out that if retirees receive a 13th check this year and a COLA in the 2023 Legislative Session, theyd actually be receiving more money overall than they would have if a Developed by. The COLA benefit increase of 3.33% is based upon the state-mandated increase to the salary for actively employed judges and magistrates in positions covered by the Judges' Retirement System. We also represent employees in universities, colleges, and community and junior colleges. Providing a 13th check for our retired teachers is yet another way we can honor their commitment to our children and to the future of Texas. As a state, we must honor our legal obligations to current and soon-to-be retirees, Wiggins said. At that rate of increase, the 13th Check could exceed $1 billion before the end of the next decade due to the manner in which the benefit is calculated. TRTA members, we are at a pivotal time. The 13th check comes as a result of legislation passed this September. "Still, it wouldn't be the first time the COLA check has been brought into question. The COLA is equal to 3% of the annual retirement allowance for each full fiscal year of retirement up to the year in which the retired member reaches age 60 (55 for those who became members of PERS before July 1, 2011), with 3% compounded for each fiscal year thereafter. Teachers who retired after Sept. 1, 2004 have never seen a cost-of-living increase to their pension plan. INDIANAPOLIS State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis), Ranking Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee, today offered a proposal to provide a 13th check for retired teachers and state employees. For nearly two decades, he has reported and offered analysis on government, public policy, business and matters of faith. Instead of squashing rumors, it fired some up even more. Only the Texas Legislature can approve a COLA for TRS retirees. More Than 650 Texas Laws Go Into Effect Sept. 1. INDIANAPOLIS State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis), Ranking Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee, today offered a proposal to provide a 13th check for retired teachers and state employees. The Public Employees Retirement System of Mississippi (PERS) annual cost of living adjustment, otherwise known as the 13th Check, has grown nearly $400 million over the last decade. All Rights Reserved. 2010: $338,628,000 ($25 million) The COLA is equal to 3% of the annual retirement allowance for each full fiscal year of retirement up to the year in which the retired member reaches age 60 (55 for those who became members of PERS before July 1, 2011), with 3% compounded for each fiscal year thereafter. All rights reserved. Due diligence requires us to continue to look at such ways. 2013: $437,808,691 ($36 million) Its Now Easier To File A Complaint In Texas, The Long Road To A New Performing Arts Center In Frisco, Heel To Toe: This Little Cowboy Has A Boot Obsession, Abortion Activists Say Pregnant Texans Are Collateral In Senate Bill 8s Battle Against Abortion, In a Central Texas county, high schoolers are jailed on felony charges for vaping what could be legal hemp, As Texas STAAR test goes fully online, teachers feel defeated, Texas Education Agency projects confidence. The COLA was no small part of the deficit between contributions and payments that grew to $1.2 billion last year., Given the trends, the question before Mississippi leaders and taxpayers alike is, How sustainable is the 13th Check?, Senate Appropriations Vice Chairman Sen. Brice Wiggins told Yall Politics this is not an issue unique to Mississippi, Nationwide, states continue to struggle with how to pay for their obligations to retirees and potential retirees. 13th Check to Retired Teachers Will Be Issued in January 2022 Posted on September 17, 2021 by hinojosa AUSTIN, TX Today, the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) adopted a resolution directing TRS staff to prepare and issue the 13th check authorized by the Texas Legislature during the Second Called Special Session. Its an appreciated one; its certainly better than nothing, absolutely. WebRetired Judges plan members will receive a 3.33% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) effective July 1, 2022. This 13th paycheck is a welcome gesture for retired teachers whose annuities have stagnated but can it make a long-term difference for retirees pocketbooks? "Representative Jeff Smith tried to calm retirees fears via Facebook. Additionally, since 1994, retirees may receive the COLA in either monthly payments or in the lump sum form of a 13th check paid in December. This would be the first 13th check retirees have received since 2007. Members who receive paper checks should expect a regular delay due to postage. EARLIER THIS YEAR: More than 400,000 retired Texas teachers receive 13th check today. 2016: $559,888,063 ($43 million) The Senate can take action on the House bill as soon as the week of March 6. But it is definitely a Band-Aid. 2018: $650,465,578 ($47 million) Final passage of this bill into law will require the House Democrats who have fled the state to return to the House for a quorum. Both the Texas House and Senate have unanimously approved a measure giving retired Texas public school teachers and staff a one-time check of up to $2,400. Teacher's Retirement System. To put it into perspective: with a one percent COLA, a retiree who worked for 15 years would receive only $2.60 more in their monthly benefit. TRTA members, we are at a pivotal time. Both the Texas House and Senate have unanimously approved a measure giving retired Texas public school teachers and staff a one-time check of up to $2,400.