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# National Public Pension Coalition

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://publicpensions.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://publicpensions.org/blog/) - The page that lists blog posts. This text will not be visible.
- [This Week in Pensions: August 7, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-7-2026/) - From an emotional visit to Memphis by a CalPERS board member to a long-overdue COLA in Pennsylvania and an ongoing debate in New Jersey over private prisons, it was a busy week for public pensions in the United States. Here's what happened this week in pensions. Willette: Workers' Capital Must Work for Workers This week,
- [Oklahoma's Pension Promise Is on the Ballot](https://publicpensions.org/oklahomas-pension-promise-is-on-the-ballot/) - Retirement security made great strides across the US this year–from expanding benefits to funding promises kept, pension gains were big.
- [This Week in Pensions: July 31, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-july-31-2026/) - From a major leadership transition in the labor movement to renewed fights over retirement security in Michigan and pension governance in Ohio, workers are continuing to push for a stronger voice in the decisions that shape their careers and retirements. Here’s what happened this week in pensions. AFSCME’s Lee Saunders Prepares to Pass the Torch
- [This Week in Pensions: July 24, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-july-24-2026/) - This week: a gubernatorial hopeful’s potential pension plans, the ongoing battle for COs in Michigan, and new litigation over empty board seats in Alaska.
- [This Week in Pensions: July 17, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-july-17-2026/) - This week in pensions: retirement security gains nationwide, Ohio teachers fight for representation, and New Jersey confronts public pension.
- [This Week in Pensions: July 10, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-july-10-2026/) - This week in pensions: retirement security gains nationwide, Ohio teachers fight for representation, and New Jersey confronts public pension.
- [Winners Never Quit: Pension Gains Across the Country](https://publicpensions.org/winners-never-quit-pension-gains-across-the-country/) - Retirement security made great strides across the US this year–from expanding benefits to funding promises kept, pension gains were big.
- [This Week in Pensions: July 2, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-july-2-2026/) - This week we cover the newest episode of Retirement in America, the Colorado PERA staff bonus controversy, and the $18 million settlement in Kentucky.
- [This Week in Pensions: June 26, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-june-26-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. State News Teachers Fight to Restore Member Representation on the Ohio STRS Board Cleveland.com reported
- [This Week In Pensions: June 18, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-june-18-2026/) - Alaska Lawmakers Weigh LNG Tax Breaks After Governor Vetoes Pension Restoration In Alaska, lawmakers are back in Juneau for a special session focused on Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s top priority: a new tax structure for the proposed Alaska LNG megaproject. The debate comes just weeks after Dunleavy vetoed House Bill 78, a bipartisan pension restoration bill
- [This Week in Pensions: June 12, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-june-12-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC Highlights Everyone looks forward to the day they can clock out for good and
- [Retirement is Expensive](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-is-expensive/) - Everyone dreams of the day they can clock out for the last time and enjoy a retirement filled with rest, freedom, and maybe even golden sands. But for most Americans, retirement is far from lavish. While some may enjoy the occasional trip, indulge in a new hobby or two, and finally slow down after decades
- [Why Market Volatility Makes Pensions More Important](https://publicpensions.org/why-market-volatility-makes-pensions-more-important/) - When markets are calm, it can be easy to forget how fragile retirement security has become for millions of Americans. But in periods of economic uncertainty, the weaknesses of a retirement system that depends heavily on individual savings accounts become impossible to ignore. Today’s economy is giving workers and retirees plenty to worry about. Inflation
- [This Week in Pensions: June 5, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-june-5-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC Highlights NPPC State Legislative Update This week, NPPC shared a state legislation update, highlighting
- [NPPC State Legislative Update](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-legislative-update-june-3-2026/) - Detailed pension-related legislative updates from across the country.
- [This Week in Pensions: May 29, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-29-2026/) - Welcome to this week’s roundup of pension news across the country. This week, we’re highlighting the continued fight for retirement security in Alaska, the importance of pensions during times of economic uncertainty, growing concern over Alaska’s public workforce crisis, and a major Tier 6 pension reform victory for New York educators and public employees. NPPC
- [This Week in Pensions: May 22, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-22-2026/) - This Week in Pensions, we cover Alaska’s pension veto, New Hampshire firefighters’ endorsement, Oklahoma’s pension ruling, and more retirement security.
- [Alaska’s Road to Retirement Security: The Rise and Fall of HB 78](https://publicpensions.org/alaskas-road-to-retirement-security-the-rise-and-fall-of-hb-78/) - After Historic Progress, Alaska’s HB 78 Fight Is Not Over For the first time since Alaska closed its defined benefit pension system nearly two decades ago, a bill to restore pensions for public employees cleared both chambers of the Legislature and landed on the Governor’s desk. House Bill 78 represented historic progress for Alaska’s teachers,
- [This Week In Pensions: April 17, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-17-2026/) - NPPC Highlight Modernization or Monetization: 2026 Pension Opposition Watch Who profits when public pensions are weakened? Our latest blog by NPPC Executive Director, Kendal Killian, takes a closer look at the financial firms, policy networks, and industry-backed groups working to undermine defined benefit pensions under the cover of “choice” and “modernization.” Public workers deserve the
- [This Week in Pensions: May 15, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-15-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. NIRS Releases New Podcast, Retirement in America: Conversations on the Future of Retirement Security This
- [This Week in Pensions: May 8, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-8-2026/) - NPPC Highlight Oklahoma public employees and retirees spoke up—and lawmakers listened. After proposals threatened to skip or redirect payments to TRS and other public retirement systems, advocates urged lawmakers to protect pension funding. The result? Oklahoma protected dedicated TRS funding, funded COLAs for retired public employees, and delivered a major win for retirement security.Read our
- [Oklahoma Public Employees Defended Retirement Security—And WON!](https://publicpensions.org/oklahoma-public-employees-defended-retirement-security-and-won/) - This legislative session, Oklahoma public employees and retirees faced a familiar threat: proposals to skip or redirect payments intended for the Teachers’ Retirement System and other public retirement systems to fund unrelated priorities. They had seen this playbook before and knew the cost. The last time Oklahoma redirected retirement funding was in 1982, and it
- [This Week in Pensions: May 1, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-1-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Alaska Passes Historic Pension Legislation Close observers of the United States public pensions landscape know
- [This Week in Pensions: April 24, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-24-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions!
- [Modernization or Monetization: 2026 Pension Opposition Watch](https://publicpensions.org/modernization-or-monetization-2026-pension-opposition-watch/) - Public pension systems in the United States provide secure, stable retirement benefits for public servants who spend their careers serving us as teachers, firefighters, first responders, and social workers. Defined benefit pensions are the bedrock foundation of public service, as many government employees sacrifice forgo lucrative take-home pay in the private sector for stable, long-term
- [This Week in Pensions: April 10, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-10-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Arizona Retirement Security Coalition Organizing to Defeat HCR 2040 In Arizona, pension advocates are working
- [This Week in Pensions: April 3, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-3-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [The Hidden Struggle: Challenges Women Face in Saving for Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/the-hidden-struggle-challenges-women-face-in-saving-for-retirement/) - Did you know that women, on average, accumulate only 75% of what men save for retirement? That statistic alone tells a story—but it doesn’t tell the whole story. The challenges women face in saving for retirement aren’t the result of a single decision or missed opportunity. They are the result of a lifetime of structural
- [Public Pensions Legislative Update: Debates Intensify at Mid-Session](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-legislative-update-debates-intensify-at-mid-session/) - Across the country, state legislatures are approaching the midpoint of their sessions, and public pensions are once again at the center of debates.
- [This Week in Pensions: March 27, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-march-27-2026/) - NPPC Highlight Public Pensions Legislative Update: Debates Intensify at Mid-Session As state legislatures approach the midpoint of their sessions, public pensions are once again at the center of major policy and budget debates. In several states, lawmakers are considering proposals that would reduce scheduled contributions, redirect pension-related funds, or tap retirement reserves to pay for
- [This Week in Pensions: March 20, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-march-20-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement.
- [This Week in Pensions: March 13, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-march-13-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement.
- [This Week in Pensions: March 6, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-march-6-2026/) - This Week in Pensions: honoring women in public service, Alaska Teachers of the Year leaving the state, and new pension legislation advancing in Kentucky.
- [Women Who Paved the Way in Public Service](https://publicpensions.org/women-who-paved-the-way-public-service/) - In honor of Women’s History Month, we at NPPC want to spotlight several remarkable women who made significant contributions to the public sector, broke barriers, and inspired future generations. These four trailblazers dedicated their lives to serving others—educating students, improving public health, protecting communities, and advancing medicine. Their stories also reflect a broader truth: public
- [This Week in Pensions: February 27, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-february-27-2026/) - Washington State Moves to “Strip Away” $3.3 Billion From Police & Fire Pension Opposition is mounting to Washington legislation that pension advocates warn could weaken first responders' pensions through the Law Enforcement Officers’ and Fire Fighters’ (LEOFF) Plan. A coalition represented by the Seattle law firm of Hagens Berman announced it is preparing legal action
- [This Week in Pensions: February 20, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-february-20-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Alaska Pension Fight Gets Heated in the Media As House Bill 78 makes its way
- [This Week in Pensions: February 13, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-february-13-2026/) - NPPC Highlight: A Valentine to Public Employees This week, we shared a heartfelt Valentine’s Day tribute to the people who keep our communities running. In our latest blog, we wrote: “Public employees are the quiet backbone of our communities. They don’t always make headlines. Their work isn’t flashy. But it is constant, essential, and deeply
- [A Valentine to Public Employees: With Love and Gratitude](https://publicpensions.org/a-valentine-to-public-employees-with-love-and-gratitude/) - Valentine’s Day is often framed as a celebration of romantic love—but at its core, it’s about appreciation. It’s about pausing long enough to say thank you to the people who show up, who care deeply, and who make our lives better simply by doing what they do every day. Today, we want to send our
- [This Week in Pensions: Feb 6, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-feb-6-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News Legislative Preview As Americans navigate a tumultuous political, economic, and social landscape, NPPC
- [Why Public Pensions Are a Civil Rights Issue](https://publicpensions.org/why-public-pensions-are-a-civil-rights-issue/) - Black History Month is a time to reflect not only on the struggle for voting rights, desegregation, and political representation, but also on the enduring fight for economic dignity and security. One often overlooked part of that history—and that struggle—is retirement security. Public pensions are frequently discussed in fiscal or actuarial terms. Yet when viewed
- [ 2026: What We're Watching for in State Legislative Sessions](https://publicpensions.org/2026-what-were-watching-for-in-state-legislative-sessions/) - As Americans navigate a tumultuous political, economic, and social landscape, we advocate for dignified, secure retirement plans for public servants for all.
- [This Week in Pensions: January 30, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-january-30-2026/) - This is the pension news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement.
- [This Week in Pensions: January 23, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-january-23-2026/) - NPPC Highlight Earlier this week on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we reflected on Dr. King’s vision of dignity, labor, and economic security. Dr. King understood that poverty and instability erode human dignity—and that people who spend their lives working and serving their communities deserve stability, not uncertainty, in the years that follow. That belief
- [Honoring Dr. King’s Vision of Dignity, Work, and Economic Security](https://publicpensions.org/honoring-dr-kings-vision-of-dignity-work-and-economic-security/) - Each year, we honor the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.—a leader whose vision extended far beyond a single movement or moment in time. Dr. King deeply believed in the dignity of work and the moral responsibility to ensure that people who serve their communities can live with stability, respect, and security throughout
- [This Week in Pensions: October 25, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-october-25-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. Boeing employees continue to strike. Why? Pensions. A decade after Boeing nixed pensions for its employees, it
- [This Week in Pensions: November 22, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-november-22-2024/) - The Social Security Fairness Act's fate now rests in the Senate's hands. Read about that and more in today’s edition of This Week In Pensions!
- [This Week in Pensions: January 9, 2026](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-january-9-2026/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions!
- [This Week in Pensions: December 19, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-december-19-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. 2025 NPPC Year in Review It’s been a busy year in the public pension world, with workers in Alaska moving closer to restoring their defined benefit pension, overall public pension
- [2025 Wrapped: Stories That Shaped the Conversation on Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/2025-wrapped-stories-that-shaped-the-conversation-on-retirement-security/) - As 2025 comes to a close, conversations about retirement security aren’t slowing down—they’re gaining momentum. This year, we published stories highlighting public employees, pension reform, and the nation’s shifting retirement landscape. Together, these stories reached more than 2 million people across 136 media outlets, reflecting a growing national demand for stability, fairness, and long-term security.
- [NPPC Briefing: TIAA’s “Futurewise” Rollout Signals a New Push to Privatize Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-briefing-tiaas-futurewise-rollout-signals-a-new-push-to-privatize-retirement/) - Last month in Washington, D.C., TIAA convened its FUTUREWISE conference—an event that doubled as a high-profile launch for its media campaign and product rollout. Framing the U.S. as facing a “retirement-income crisis,” TIAA executives cast the company’s growing portfolio of annuity-based, defined-contribution–oriented products as the supposed solution. TIAA’s Media Blitz The timing is strategic. Coordinated
- [This Week in Pensions: December 12, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-december-12-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. Alaska’s Teacher Turnover Continues to Rise—Fueling Calls for Stronger Retention Tools A new report presented to the Alaska State Board of Education highlights a troubling trend: educators are leaving their
- [This Week in Pensions: December 5, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-december-5-2025/) - The Role of Politics in Pensions was a hot topic in the news this week.
- [This Week in Pensions: November 21, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-november-21-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. Alaska’s Workforce Crisis Deepens as Teacher Turnover, Low Pay, and Retirement Insecurity Persist This week in Alaska, a powerful combination of educator testimony, economic analysis, and public reflection underscored the
- [This Week in Pensions: November 14, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-november-14-2025/) - NCPERS Policy Webinar: What’s Ahead for Public Pensions The National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS) is hosting a timely webinar on December 11th at 2:00 PM EST on the state and federal policy landscape that will shape public pensions in the year ahead. NCPERS Executive Director Hank Kim and Anthony Roda of William
- [This Week in Pensions: November 7, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-november-7-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions!
- [This Week in Pensions: October 31, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-october-31-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions!We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Tim Hill: It’s Time to Start a Discussion About Private Equity in Retirement Plans Writing on
- [This Week in Pensions: October 10, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-october-10th-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Impact of Federal Layoffs on Black Workers’ Retirement Security This week, during Retirement Security Month,
- [This Week in Pensions: October 24, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-october-24-2025/) - This Week in Pensions highlights Alaska’s push to restore Social Security, Iowa’s IPERS concerns, Ohio’s STRS lawsuit, and Maine’s shutdown impacts.
- [This Week in Pensions: October 17, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-october-17-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [The Hidden Cost of Mass Layoffs: Black Workers’ Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/the-hidden-cost-of-mass-layoffs-black-workers-retirement-security/) - When headlines announce hundreds or thousands of public servants being laid off, the coverage often stops at the immediate job loss. But the real damage runs much deeper: federal and state job cuts erode a foundational source of economic stability for Black workers—especially Black women—the security of a dignified retirement. Public service as a pathway
- [This Week in Pensions: October 3, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-october-3-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. NPPC Highlight October marks National Retirement Security Month (NRSM)—a time to shed light on the growing retirement crisis and the importance of reliable retirement tools, such as public pensions. In
- [This Week in Pensions: September 19, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-september-19-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. Is America’s Retirement System Failing Future Retirees? A new analysis from economist Teresa Ghilarducci and colleagues warns that without reforms, millions of Americans—especially Generation X and Millennials—face a far less
- [National Retirement Security Month](https://publicpensions.org/national-retirement-security-month/) - October is National Retirement Insecurity Month. While public pensions remain one of the strongest and most reliable retirement tools, millions of Americans continue to face a frighteningly uncertain future. This year, that reality feels even more urgent. Recognize the Escalating Retirement Crisis The retirement crisis in America is worsening. Mass layoffs in both the public
- [This Week in Pensions: September 26, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-september-26-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [This Week in Pensions: September 12, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-september-12-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Economy and Public Workforce Under Strain This week’s economic headlines paint a troubling picture for
- [This Week in Pensions: September 5, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-september-5-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News By the first week in September, many schools across the nation have welcomed
- [Supporting the Educators Who Support Our Students](https://publicpensions.org/back-to-school-teachers/) - As a new school year begins, teachers face mounting challenges—from staff shortages to rising school violence. Pensions are key to keeping them in classrooms.
- [This Week in Pensions: August 29, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-29-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. NPPC News This week, we published two blog posts addressing important issues: Iowa Briefly Looks at Closing Pension System Iowa’s DOGE task force, created by Gov. Reynolds, briefly eyed replacing
- [Iowa Briefly Looks at Closing Pension System](https://publicpensions.org/iowa-briefly-looks-at-closing-pension-system/) - On February 10, 2025, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed an Executive Order establishing the Iowa Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Task Force. Framed as a panel to “improve effectiveness and efficiency in government at all levels,” the task force was established with sweeping authority, but without a single representative from organized labor at the table.
- [Worker Representation in Pension Governance: Why It Matters](https://publicpensions.org/worker-representation-in-pension-governance-why-it-matters/) - Worker representation remains crucial for decision-making that reflects the interests of rank-and-file workers.
- [This Week in Pensions: August 22, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-22-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. With the economy again showing signs of tariff-driven turbulence, investment returns and asset strategies are in the news. Also, this week in Oklahoma, a legislative committee heard testimony from representatives
- [This Week in Pensions: August 15, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-15-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News This week marks the 90th anniversary of the Social Security Act. Nearly 74
- [90 Years of Social Security: Protecting the First Leg of Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/90-years-of-social-security/) - On August 14, 1935, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law, creating one of the most enduring pillars of economic security in American history. For nine decades, Social Security has ensured that millions of Americans—retirees, people with disabilities, and survivors—can count on a guaranteed income, regardless of economic or political shifts.
- [This Week in Pensions: August 8, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-8-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. Trump Administration Moves to Allow Riskier Assets in 401(k)s Trump is set to sign an executive order opening the door for 401(k) retirement accounts to invest in “alternative assets” —
- [This Week in Pensions: August 1, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-1-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This summer, three new research papers have been released, spotlighting the vital role pensions play in supporting our communities and generating state and local tax revenue. Pensions are funded through
- [This Week in Pensions: July 25, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-july-25-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Public Pensions Maintain Healthy Funding Levels in 2025 This week, Millman released data from its
- [This Week in Pensions: July 18, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-july-18-2025/) - Public education and public employees are under attack nationwide—from budget cuts and pension threats in Ohio to a federal voucher scheme and funding freezes across 25 states
- [This Week in Pensions: July 11, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-july-11-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [This Week in Pensions: June 27, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-june-27-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. NPPC Highlight Earlier this week, NPPC hosted its first-ever webinar featuring Executive Director Kendal Killian and special guests, who shared valuable insights on the latest pension legislation from across the
- [Webinar Recap: Key Moments from NPPC’s Mid-Year Legislative Update](https://publicpensions.org/webinar-recap-key-moments-from-nppcs-mid-year-legislative-update/) - NPPC Executive Director Kendal Killian was joined by special guests to deliver in-depth insight on the latest in pension legislation from across the country.
- [This Week in Pensions: June 20, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-june-20-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News Juneteenth reminds us of the fight for equality, but today, we face a new threat
- [Federal Job Cuts Threaten the Black Middle Class](https://publicpensions.org/federal-job-cuts-threaten-the-black-middle-class/) - Learn how federal job cuts threaten Black families' economic stability and the essential role federal employment has played in building wealth for Black communities.
- [This Week in Pensions: June 13, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-june-13-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. Federal Workers’ Retirement Options Feeling the DOGE EffectHouse Republicans have advanced a provision in former President Trump’s
- [This Week in Pensions: June 6, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-june-6-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. Thousands of California Teachers Laid Off Amid Budget Cuts Roughly 3,000 California educators are losing their jobs as districts grapple with funding shortfalls resulting from declining enrollment and cuts in
- [This Week in Pensions: May 30, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-30-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [2025 State Legislative Recap](https://publicpensions.org/2025-state-legislative-recap/) - As legislative sessions wrap up across the country, we take a look at some of the wins and losses in state pension legislation.
- [This Week in Pensions: May 23, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-23-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. Big Win for Educators in Minnesota Early this week, Minnesota lawmakers passed pension reform measures improving pension
- [This Week in Pensions: April 25, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-25-2025-2/) - Alaska advances pension reform, federal workers face cuts, Michigan corrections officers rally for stalled bills, and Georgia's pension remains strong.
- [A Major Step Forward: Alaska’s House Passes HB 78](https://publicpensions.org/alaska-house-passes-hb78/) - After nearly two decades without a defined benefit pension system for public employees, Alaska is one step closer to reversing course. On May 12, 2025, the Alaska House of Representatives passed House Bill 78 —a historic move toward restoring secure retirement benefits for public servants across the state. The final vote was 21-19. The bill
- [This Week In Pensions: May 9, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/twip-05-09-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News The first full week in May marks Public Service Recognition Week. We extend our deepest
- [Public Service Deserves Public Support](https://publicpensions.org/public-service-deserves-public-support/) - We believe that true recognition for public service is ensuring that public employees have the respect, pay, and benefits they deserve.
- [This Week in Pensions: May 2, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-2-2025/) - Find out what's going on this week in pension news from around the country.
- [This Week in Pensions: April 25, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-25-2025/) - NPPC Highlight This week, we’re excited to announce we’ve officially expanded to the Buckeye State! Introducing our newest partner in the fight for retirement security: the Ohio Public Pension Coalition. This coalition will work tirelessly to ensure that Ohio’s public employees can count on the secure retirement they’ve earned through a lifetime of public service.
- [Alaska’s Pension Reform Faces Another Delay](https://publicpensions.org/alaska-pension-reform-delay/) - Alaska’s effort to restore defined benefit pensions for public workers faces legislative delays. With no pension or Social Security, Alaska’s recruitment crisis deepens
- [Public Pension Plans Highlight Long-Term Investing Strategy Amid Market Volatility](https://publicpensions.org/public-pension-plans-highlight-long-term-investing-strategy-amid-market-volatility/) - Public pension funds have lost billions amid market chaos sparked by unpredictable tariff policies. Learn how defined benefit pensions still offer stability.
- [This Week in Pensions: April 18, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-18-2025/) - This week in pensions: Alaska lawmakers face delays in restoring defined benefit plans, while public pensions grapple with market instability caused by tariffs. Read how pensions are staying strong—and why defined benefits still matter.
- [This Week in Pensions: April 11, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-11-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement.
- [This Week in Pensions: April 4, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-4-2025/) - From federal layoffs to Alaska’s teacher crisis to Utah’s collective bargaining fight—it’s all part of a coordinated effort that threatens retirement security.
- [This Week in Pensions: March 28, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-march-28-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. NPPC Highlight In a new opinion piece, NPPC Executive Director Kendal Killian connects the dots between the decades-long attacks on defined benefit pensions and the mounting threats to Social Security.
- [The Billionaire Blueprint: Gut Pensions, Privatize Social Security](https://publicpensions.org/the-billionaire-blueprint-gut-pensions-privatize-social-security/) - The fate of social security and pensions is intrinsically connected—a message from NPPC’s executive director, Kendal Killian.
- [This Week in Pensions March 21, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-march-21-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions!
- [This Week in Pensions: March 14, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-march-14-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [Honoring Women in the Public Sector: A Legacy of Service and Security](https://publicpensions.org/honoring-women-in-the-public-sector-a-legacy-of-service-and-security/) - Women in the public sector have long faced financial challenges due to the gender pay gap and career interruptions. Learn how pensions provide financial stability and equity for women in retirement.
- [This Week in Pensions: March 7, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-march-7-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [This Week in Pensions: February 28, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-february-28-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [Mid-Session Legislative Updates](https://publicpensions.org/mid-session-legislative-updates/) - State legislative sessions are underway; here’s a look at what we’re tracking in Alaska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Connecticut.
- [This Week in Pensions: February 21, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-february-21-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News: Texas Teacher Retirement System’s Voucher Problem. In Texas, Senate Bill 2, which would divert education
- [This Week in Pensions February 14, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-february-14-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [This Week in Pensions February 7, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-february-7-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [How Public Sector Jobs Have Empowered Black Workers and Why They Must Be Protected](https://publicpensions.org/how-public-sector-jobs-have-empowered-black-workers/) - Public sector jobs have long been a pathway to economic stability for Black workers. However, ongoing threats like DEI rollbacks, privatization, and budget cuts put these opportunities at risk.
- [This Week in Pensions January 31, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-january-31-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [NIRS’ Pensionomics 2025 Report](https://publicpensions.org/nirs-pensionomics-2025-report/) - The NIRS’ Pensionomics 2025 Report highlights the economic impact that public pensions have on the larger economy.
- [This Week in Pensions January 24, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-january-24-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [Honoring Martin Luther King Jr.'s Legacy: Advancing Equality in the Public Sector](https://publicpensions.org/honoring-martin-luther-king-jr-s-legacy-advancing-equality-in-the-public-sector/) - In the struggle for equality during the American civil rights movement, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. played a pivotal role in advocating for job opportunities for African Americans in the public sector. King believed that access to these opportunities would not only bring economic empowerment but also pave the way for political representation,
- [Threats and Opportunities: 2025 State Legislative Preview](https://publicpensions.org/threats-and-opportunities-2025-state-legislative-preview/) - For many states, legislative sessions start in January.
- [This Week in Pensions January 17, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-january-17-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [Standing with Los Angeles: Supporting Our Heroes](https://publicpensions.org/standing-with-los-angeles-supporting-our-heroes/) - As flames threaten lives and property in Los Angeles, brave firefighters are on the front lines, risking their safety to protect others.
- [This Week in Pensions January 10, 2025](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-january-10-2025/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News: A historic victory for public workers was won this week when President Biden signed the
- [Historic Victory for Public Workers: Repealing WEP and GPO](https://publicpensions.org/historic-victory-for-public-workers-repealing-wep-and-gpo/) - On January 5, 2025, President Joe Biden signed the Social Security Fairness Act, marking a monumental win for public employees nationwide. This long-awaited legislation repeals the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO)—policies that unfairly reduced Social Security benefits for millions of teachers, firefighters, nurses, police officers, and other public servants for more
- [This Week in Pensions December 20, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-december-20-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. The Senate Moves Forward with the Social Security Fairness Act This week, the Senate committed to bringing
- [This Week in Pensions December 6, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-december-6-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions. 🗞️
- [This Week in Pensions: November 15, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-november-15-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [This Week in Pensions: December 13, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-december-13-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [Celebrating Unsung Heroes: A Month of Gratitude for Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/celebrating-unsung-heroes-a-month-of-gratitude-for-public-employees/) - In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we often overlook the tireless efforts of the unsung heroes who work diligently behind the scenes to keep our communities thriving. They are the public employees who dedicate themselves to serving the public and making a positive impact on our lives. This month, NPPC expresses our
- [Understanding WEP and GPO: Why We Must Act Now](https://publicpensions.org/wep-gpo-action/) - When public employees dedicate their lives to serving their communities—as teachers, firefighters, police officers, and other essential workers—they deserve a secure retirement. Yet, two federal provisions—the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO)—undermine that promise for millions of public workers. These policies unfairly penalize retirees, reducing or eliminating Social Security benefits they’ve
- [Surplus or Deficit? How a state’s budget can affect your pension.](https://publicpensions.org/surplus-or-deficit-how-a-states-budget-can-affect-your-pension/) - What does it mean for you when a state has a budget surplus or deficit?
- [This Week in Pensions: November 8, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-november-8-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. The Social Security Fairness Act may see the House floor in the coming weeks. Introduced in 2023,
- [This Week in Pensions: November 1, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-november-1-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC Election News The upcoming November 5th General Election will have an immense impact on public pensions.
- [Is Retirement Security Attainable for Americans? (Repost)](https://publicpensions.org/is-retirement-security-attainable-for-americans-repost/) - Americans are woefully unprepared for retirement. It’s not a fact that’s comfortable to face, but the truth is evident. As we continue to observe National Retirement Security Month, today we’ll explore the stark reality of retirement insecurity for countless hard-working folks across the country. In this land of the free, how brave does one have
- [This Week in Pensions: October 18, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-october-18-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [The Financial Health of Public Pensions: Facts vs. Fiction](https://publicpensions.org/the-financial-health-of-public-pensions-facts-vs-fiction/) - On any given day in America, news outlets run headlines sensationalizing the funding status, investment returns, and management of state and municipal pension systems. Whether it’s a Milliman analysis, a Pew report, or a local newspaper, reporting can be confusing at worst and often skewed by the opposition agenda. Luckily, we are here to help
- [Is the Private Sector Eying a Return to Pensions?](https://publicpensions.org/is-the-private-sector-eying-a-return-to-pensions/) - Over four decades ago one small change to the Internal Revenue Code through the 1978 Revenue Act changed the course of retirement in America. Section 401(k), originally a retirement tax-deferral initiative, eventually became the name of a financial product, but it was never intended to be workers’ primary retirement tool. By shifting fees and investment
- [This Week in Pensions: October 11, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-october-11-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News The Heritage Foundation is a dangerous public policy organization promoting anti-worker policies in Project 2025,
- [The Dangers of Project 2025: A Threat to Public Service and Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/the-dangers-of-project-2025-a-threat-to-public-service-and-retirement-security/) - Project 2025 looms over our government's integrity and public servants' welfare. How will it affect public service?
- [This Week in Pensions: October 4, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-october-4-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [National Retirement Security Month: Why Public Pensions Matter More Than Ever](https://publicpensions.org/national-retirement-security-month-why-public-pensions-matter-more-than-ever/) - During National Retirement Security Month, we spotlight the unsettling reality faced by those with inadequate retirement plans.
- [This Week in Pensions: September 27, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-september-27-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News We often hear businesses needing more workers or struggling to build stable talent pools. The
- [Want to Solve the Worker Shortage Crisis? Try Pensions.](https://publicpensions.org/want-to-solve-the-worker-shortage-crisis-try-pensions/) - Nowadays, we often hear about businesses needing more workers or struggling to build stable talent pools. The worker shortage epidemic has become the new normal, as the issue is constantly echoed in the media and permeates many everyday conversations. The public sector has not been immune to these challenges. In fact, communities everywhere are feeling
- [This Week in Pensions:September 20, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensionsseptember-20-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News Pensions are making a big splash in the news lately. While many claim that defined
- [Don’t call it a comeback: We’ve been here for years.](https://publicpensions.org/dont-call-it-a-comeback-weve-been-here-for-years/) - Despite shifting tides, pensions have remained a reliable source of retirement security for public workers, and now in 2024 have been thrust into the national spotlight in the current presidential race.
- [This Week in Pensions: September 13, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-september-13-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [This Week in Pensions: September 6, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-september-6-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News Here at the National Public Pension Coalition (NPPC), we believe that just as teachers work
- [Back to School, Back to Advocating for Teachers’ Pensions!](https://publicpensions.org/back-to-school-back-to-advocating-for-teachers-pensions/) - Join NPPC in advocating for defined-benefit pensions that provide educators with the financial security they deserve after a lifetime of shaping the future.
- [This Week in Pensions: August 30, 2023](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-30-2023/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week.
- [Someone to Answer the Call: Pensions are Crucial to Bolstering Public Safety](https://publicpensions.org/someone-to-answer-the-call-pensions-are-crucial-to-bolstering-public-safety/) - State and local governments face challenges in staffing public safety roles but research finds pensions arethe best recruitment and retention tool.
- [Did You Know NFL Players Earn a Pension?](https://publicpensions.org/did-you-know-nfl-players-earn-a-pension/) - Summer is ending, and for some, this is tragic news. Soon, it will be time to bust out the leaf blowers and the snow shovels. However, as football season approaches, this is a time of pure joy for football fans. As the NFL season kicks off, fans eagerly anticipate the action on the field–but not
- [This Week in Pensions: August 23, 2023](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-23-2023/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News Did you know that professional athletes receive defined-benefit pensions? In honor of the start of
- [This Week in Pensions: August 16, 2023](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-16-2023/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News Earlier this summer, the conservative editorial magazine National Review published a piece entitled Republicans Need
- [This Week in Pensions: August 2, 2023](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-2-2023-2/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. CalSTRS announced that the state’s pension fund outperformed, ending the year with $341.4B The California State Teachers’
- [This Week in Pensions: August 2, 2023](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-august-2-2023/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News With the summer Olympics in full swing, we can’t help but point out that if
- [This Week in Pensions: July 26, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-july-26-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. CT Now Sitting On $4.1 Billion Budget Reserve Connecticut has seen a massive windfall in the state's
- [Creating a Fake Crisis: When Pension Opponents Stir the Pot](https://publicpensions.org/creating-a-fake-crisis-when-pension-opponents-stir-the-pot/) - Earlier this summer, the conservative editorial magazine National Review published a piece authored by Dominic Pina entitled Republicans Need to Promise Now: No State Pension Bailouts. The politics and policy story in this notorious right-wing publication (founded by noted segregationist William F. Buckley) has many issues, the most fundamental problem being that it articulates opposition
- [Going for the Gold in Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/going-for-the-gold-in-retirement/) - The 2024 Summer Olympic Games are in full swing in Paris, France. Just a week into the games, Simone Biles has become the most decorated Olympic gymnast in history with the U.S. women’s gymnastics team's gold medal performance. She is just one among the swimmers, divers, cyclists, and other athletes who have demonstrated their hard
- [This Week in Pensions: July 19, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-july-19-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News Contrary to what you might hear from pension opponents, pensions are making a comeback. Defined
- [Bringing Pensions Back!](https://publicpensions.org/bringing-pensions-back/) - Contrary to what you might hear from pension opponents, pensions are making a comeback. Once considered a relic of the past, traditional defined benefit (DB) pensions are experiencing a resurgence as states and cities across the country reinstate and bolster these benefits. This strategic move aims to tackle pressing challenges in workforce recruitment and retention.
- [This Week in Pensions: June 28, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-june-28-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News A new report in Vanguard highlights the inequity in 401(k) benefits, showing that the majority
- [This Week in Pensions: June 7, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-june-7-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. Oklahoma Police Set to See an Increase in Pension Benefits Oklahoma lawmakers overrode Governor Kevin Stitt's veto
- [What’s Happening Around The Country](https://publicpensions.org/whats-happening-around-the-country/) - State legislative sessions are in full swing across the nation. NPPC is working with several state coalitions to protect pensions and pass proactive policies to improve public employee retirement security. NPPC’s state coalitions are working hard to deliver for public employees, and so far, we’ve seen some great progress. In a post in early February,
- [Pensions Help Women Close The Income Gap (Repost)](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-help-women-close-the-income-gap-repost/) - In honor of Women’s History Month, NPPC Reshares this blog post by Maria French. In 1978, Congress declared that March is observed as Women’s History Month, honoring and observing the contributions of women to the fabric of American society. At that time, the gender pay gap was significant. On average, women earned only 62.7% of
- [The Inequity Trap: How 401(k)s Drive Earning Gaps Between Workers](https://publicpensions.org/the-inequity-trap-how-401ks-drive-earning-gaps-between-workers/) - A new study from Vanguard outlines a predictable yet troubling reality: The vast majority of employer contributions to 401(k) plans benefit higher-income employees rather than their working-class counterparts. The study, conducted by economists from MIT, Yale, and the U.S. Census Bureau, found significant disparities in employer matches to 401(k) contributions among different demographics. Black and
- [High Pension Stakes in the Great Lakes State](https://publicpensions.org/high-pension-stakes-in-the-great-lakes-state/) - Michigan has a pension problem. The complicated history between the state legislature and the state’s defined benefit pension systems has contributed to public sector employee shortages, including education, public safety, public works, and other state and local government positions. But now the question is does Michigan’s labor-aligned majority signal an opportunity for lawmakers to reverse
- [This Week in Pensions: March 22, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-march-22-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered this week’s top stories about pensions and retirement security all in one place. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. In Case You Missed It… State legislative sessions around the country are in full
- [This Week in Pensions: March 29, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-march-29-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered this week’s top stories about pensions and retirement security all in one place. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. In Case You Missed It… As Women’s History Month comes to a close, we’ve
- [This Week in Pensions: April 5, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-5-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered this week’s top stories about pensions and retirement security all in one place. This is the news you need to know. A new survey shows Americans have increased their retirement “Magic Number” Northwest Mutual released their latest survey findings, revealing that Americans
- [This Week in Pensions: April 12, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-12-2024/) - NPPC Highlights Check out our latest blog, which delves into insights from NIRS' recent report on how Rhode Island's shift away from defined benefit pensions impacted the turnover trends within the state's public workforce. Addressing Maine's Growing Teacher Shortage Maine faces a serious issue–a shortage of teachers in several critical subjects. The Maine Department of
- [This Week in Pensions: May 3, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-3-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News May 1 is International Workers’ Day, a day to honor the individuals who came together
- [This Week in Pensions: April 19, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-19-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News The tragic loss of six lives in the wake of the Francis Scott Key Bridge
- [ This Week in Pensions: May 17, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-17-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News Contrary to what some opponents say, pensions are highly beneficial to young workers. Understanding the
- [This Week in Pensions: May 24, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-24-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News As state legislative sessions come to a close, we looked back on some of the
- [Welcome to Defined Benefit!](https://publicpensions.org/welcome-to-defined-benefit/) - Happy Labor Day! Today as a nation, we celebrate and remember the contributions of workers to the prosperity and well-being of our country. The working people and their families that comprise the National Public Pension Coalition are fighting hard every day so that teachers, firefighters, nurses, librarians and other public workers can retire with the
- [Three States that Abandoned Their Pensions- And Suffered the Consequences](https://publicpensions.org/three-states-that-abandoned-their-pensions-and-suffered-the-consequences/) - We all know that pensions provide a safe and secure retirement for public employees in a cost-effective way. In many states, though, anti-pension ideologues and politicians try to sell pension “reform” as a way to save money for the state. However, the example of states that have actually switched from a defined benefit pension plan
- [The Hidden Cost of Reducing Pension Benefits: Increased Income Inequality](https://publicpensions.org/the-hidden-cost-of-reducing-pension-benefits-increased-income-inequality/) - In a previous post, we discussed the consequences for states that abandoned their pension plans. But gutting defined benefit pensions has consequences beyond unstable funding and decreased retirement security. A recent report by the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems revealed another effect of slashing pensions: increased income inequality. Over the past three decades,
- [West Virginia Has a Lesson for Kentucky](https://publicpensions.org/west-virginia-has-a-lesson-for-kentucky/) - Just the other day, Matt Bevin, a candidate for governor of Kentucky attacked the retirement security of public workers in Kentucky when he declared, “We have to move to a defined contribution plan, period.” When politicians like Matt Bevin attack pensions, they usually do it under the guise of saving money, but the facts don’t
- [Spotlight on: Chris Christie](https://publicpensions.org/spotlight-on-chris-christie/) - Today we begin a new series where we shine the spotlight on the politicians and ideological activists behind the attacks on public pensions. Our first subject: New Jersey governor and presidential aspirant Chris Christie. Below are five things you need to know about Chris Christie and his record on pensions. Christie violated the terms of
- [Tax Fairness](https://publicpensions.org/tax-fairness/) - States looking for revenue to fund key priorities like education, infrastructure, and pensions need look no further than tax fairness. Tax fairness—the principle that the wealthy should be taxed the same as the middle and working classes—could help resolve a number of state funding challenges. A report released earlier this year by the Keystone Research
- [Myths and Facts About Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/myths-and-facts-about-pensions/) - In the conversation around public pensions, there are a lot of myths that get repeated over and over again. We’re going to dispel three of the most common myths here. Myth #1: Pensions are Underfunded and Unsustainable Fact: Most public pensions are back on sound financial footing after the Great Recession and on a path
- [Dispatches from the Field: Wisconsin](https://publicpensions.org/dispatches-from-the-field-wisconsin/) - What do you think of when you think of Wisconsin? The Green Bay Packers? Fried cheese curds? Anti-worker (failed) presidential candidates? Here at Defined Benefit, when we hear Wisconsin we think of a fully-funded model pension system. Wisconsin’s pension system, thanks to responsible politicians, has been 100% funded for a decade and will continue to
- [Partner Organization Spotlight: NCPERS](https://publicpensions.org/partner-organization-spotlight-ncpers/) - Occasionally here on Defined Benefit, we like to highlight the work of one of our partner organizations. Protecting retirement security for public workers is hard work and we can’t do it by ourselves. Today we’re taking a look at the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems. NCPERS is the largest trade association for public
- [Spotlight on: John Arnold](https://publicpensions.org/spotlight-john-arnold/) - Today we continue shining a spotlight on anti-pension politicians and activists by turning to the story of John Arnold. Arnold got his start at Enron, where he left with an $8 million golden parachute as the company collapsed, wiping out billions in pension funds. With his Enron millions, Arnold became a Wall Street hedge fund
- [Spotlight on: Alabama](https://publicpensions.org/spotlight-on-alabama/) - [rwd imageid='768' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2016/02/Alabama-Pensions.png'] The health of Alabama’s pension system has been in the news a lot recently. Why the sudden interest in Alabama’s pensions, you might ask? Well, it has a lot to do with some familiar faces: Enron billionaire John Arnold and the Pew Research Center. In Monday’s blog post, we
- [Defined Benefit vs Defined Contribution: the Basics](https://publicpensions.org/defined-benefit-vs-defined-contribution-the-basics/) - Many Americans believe that a retirement security crisis is looming; they feel it in their daily lives. Many Americans also believe that one of the benefits of a lifetime of hard work should be a secure retirement. The question for both employers and employees then is how best to provide that secure retirement. While conservative
- [Spotlight on: Pennsylvania](https://publicpensions.org/spotlight-on-pennsylvania/) - [rwd imageid='787' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2015/11/Pennsylvania-Pensions-NPPC.png'] Politicians in Pennsylvania have been trying to gut worker pensions for years. In this state-focused series at Defined Benefit, we’re going to give you the background on this battle to protect retirement security in Pennsylvania. Let’s begin with some history. As we’ve seen in many states, Pennsylvania’s public pensions
- [Women and Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/women-and-retirement-security/) - Pensions provide retirement security to many workers, but one group that particularly benefits from the security of a reliable pension is women. On average, women in the U.S. make 78 cents for every $1 a man makes. This pay inequity follows women into retirement, when women are almost twice as likely as a man to
- [Where Do Pensions Get Their Money?](https://publicpensions.org/where-do-pensions-get-their-money/) - Many people don’t understand how pensions work – unlike the loyal readers of ‘Defined Benefit’ – so here’s a short primer on how pensions get their money. Typically, it is from three sources: employee contributions, investment returns, and employer contributions. Let’s take a look at each of these. Employee contributions: in nearly every state, public
- [Phoenix Stands Up to John Arnold](https://publicpensions.org/phoenix-stands-up-to-john-arnold/) - We’ve written before about John Arnold, the former Enron energy trader turned hedge fund billionaire, who has made it his mission to gut public pensions across the nation. We’ve also highlighted one of his notable failures: his single-handed attempt to undermine public pensions in Phoenix, Arizona. While Arnold’s measure was rejected by the sensible voters
- [Spotlight on: Bruce Rauner](https://publicpensions.org/spotlight-on-bruce-rauner/) - In today’s post, we continue to shine a spotlight on right-wing politicians and anti-worker ideologues who are leading the charge to gut public pensions. Today’s subject is Illinois governor Bruce Rauner. While relatively new to the office and without the shameful track record of New Jersey governor Chris Christie, Rauner is a rabidly anti-labor politician,
- [Spotlight on: Oklahoma](https://publicpensions.org/spotlight-on-oklahoma/) - Although Oklahoma has well-performing public pensions that follow the nationally recognized best practices for pension plans, it has still been a battleground for public pensions the past several years. The conservative state legislature has considered a number of bills over the past few sessions that would gut public pensions and harm the retirement security of
- [The Promise of a Pension](https://publicpensions.org/the-promise-of-a-pension/) - This week is National Save for Retirement Week. Established by an act of Congress in 2006, this week is intended to raise awareness and promote participation in employer-sponsored retirement savings plans. We at the National Public Pension Coalition believe every American deserves to retire with dignity. However, National Save for Retirement Week is often used
- [The False Promise of a 401(k)](https://publicpensions.org/the-false-promise-of-a-401k/) - We’re in the middle of National Save for Retirement Week. As we indicated in Monday’s blog post, this week is often used by Wall Street banks and other financial interests to promote participation in defined contribution 401(k) plans. One of the biggest changes in retirement planning in the past thirty years has been the move
- [How Pension Cuts Harm the Middle Class](https://publicpensions.org/how-pension-cuts-harm-the-middle-class/) - It’s now the end of National Save for Retirement Week. Hopefully this week you’ve thought some more about how pensions provide the safest and most secure retirement for working families. Unfortunately, when public pensions are cut by irresponsible politicians, those cuts harm the middle class. Public employees like teachers, firefighters, and librarians work in solidly
- [Dispatches from the Field: Arizona](https://publicpensions.org/dispatches-from-the-field-arizona/) - The largest pension system in Arizona funds a safe and secure retirement for employees of state agencies, public schools and universities, county employees and many city employees around the state. For the more than half a million active members and an additional 120,000 retirees of the system, their pension comes with the knowledge that they
- [Haunted House of Pension Horrors](https://publicpensions.org/haunted-house-of-pension-horrors/) - Tomorrow is Halloween. Children across the country will be going door-to-door asking “trick or treat” to their neighbors. Public workers, however, are getting more tricks than treats from the pension ghouls haunting the debate over retirement security for working families. In honor of this most spooky of nights, we’re going to enter the haunted house
- [Welcome to Our New Website!](https://publicpensions.org/welcome-to-our-new-website/) - If you're reading this blog, you may have noticed we've made some changes. New URL, new look, new feel; same work to tell the truth about pensions and protect a safe and secure retirement for working families. You’ll find several helpful new features on this website. This blog, Defined Benefit, will be featured more prominently
- [A Tale of Two Retirements](https://publicpensions.org/a-tale-of-two-retirements/) - Unfortunately, we know that defined benefit pensions have been declining rapidly in the private sector. And we know that some irresponsible politicians and anti-pension ideologues are trying to gut pensions in the public sector. What we didn’t know until recently was just how big the gulf is between the retirement accounts of corporate CEOs and
- [Election Recap: Bluegrass Edition](https://publicpensions.org/election-recap-bluegrass-edition/) - Tuesday was election day in America. While these off-off-year elections feature fewer candidates on the ballots and fewer voters at the polls, these elections still have consequences. One of the most consequential races was the Kentucky gubernatorial election, one of only three gubernatorial elections this year. Despite polls predicting a close race, Republican nominee Matt
- [Not Having a Pension Could Kill You!](https://publicpensions.org/not-having-a-pension-could-kill-you/) - Two recent reports- on unrelated subjects- have highlighted the importance of pensions for low-income working families. The Employee Benefits Research Institute released a report last month that focused on the ability of defined contribution plans and defined benefit plans to replace income in retirement. A separate report from two Princeton economists noted an alarming rise
- [Spotlight on: Carl DeMaio and Chuck Reed](https://publicpensions.org/spotlight-on-carl-demaio-and-chuck-reed/) - Today is Friday the 13th, a day typically associated with bad luck. Bad luck is something Carl DeMaio and Chuck Reed know about. For several years now, they have tried to gut the retirement security of California working families with no luck. Next year they’ll try again. You may remember DeMaio and Reed. They were
- [Latinos and Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/latinos-and-retirement-security/) - Ask any presidential candidate and they’ll tell you that immigration is a major issue in the 2016 campaign. Immigration, however, is not the only issue of concern to the Latino community. Retirement security deserves serious consideration as Latinos have lower rates of retirement security than any other demographic group in the United States. This is
- [Election Recap: Cajun-Style](https://publicpensions.org/election-recap-cajun-style/) - If you don’t follow Louisiana politics, then you might be missing out on their exciting and unique electoral politics. Louisiana elects its governor, other statewide officers, and state legislature in off-off-year elections. The candidates for governor all participate in what’s called a jungle primary. Every candidate, regardless of party, is on one ballot. If any
- [State Update: Pennsylvania](https://publicpensions.org/state-update-pennsylvania/) - [rwd imageid='787' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2015/11/Pennsylvania-Pensions-NPPC.png'] As we’ve written before, Pennsylvania faces an ongoing standoff over its budget and at least part of the fight has to do with pensions. Earlier this month, Democratic Governor Tom Wolf and Republican leaders in the state legislature announced a framework budget agreement to resolve the standoff. Two weeks
- [Dispatches from the Field: Houston, TX](https://publicpensions.org/dispatches-from-the-field-houston-tx/) - John Arnold has been all over Bloomberg lately. He was the protagonist of two articles last week. You’ve heard plenty from us about Arnold before. The Bloomberg Business profile didn’t reveal anything new about the anti-pension billionaire other than that he is playing the long game: Arnold says he hopes to see “results in a
- [Happy Thanksgiving!](https://publicpensions.org/happy-thanksgiving/) - Today's blog post was written by our intern Jennifer: Like most public employees, my father has dedicated his life to helping others. His passion for service propelled him to pursue a career as a police officer in Muncie, Indiana. Although his job meant he wasn’t always able to be home for the holidays, I understood
- [Fund Your Pension!](https://publicpensions.org/fund-your-pension/) - Unfortunately, Kentucky and its public pensions have been in the news a lot lately. I say unfortunately because Kentucky’s pensions do suffer from a real underfunding problem and the state just elected a new governor who campaigned on gutting those pensions and moving to a 401(k)-style system. As we know, this will make the problem
- [Selling Out the Future by Cutting Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/selling-out-the-future/) - Pensions are a promise. In fact, pensions are a form of deferred compensation. Public sector employees- such as teachers, firefighters, and nurses- accept lower salaries during their working years in exchange for monthly contributions from their employer toward their pension. As we explored previously, these employer contributions are added to the employee's own contributions and
- [Retiring Without Social Security](https://publicpensions.org/retiring-without-social-security/) - Most Americans count on Social Security as a significant piece of their retirement plan. For some, it will be a nice supplement to their pension or their personal savings; for others, it will be their entire retirement benefit. The nation recently celebrated Social Security’s 80th birthday and its success at providing a dignified retirement for
- [African-Americans and Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/african-americans-and-retirement-security/) - Due in large part to low levels of wealth, black households are much less likely than their white counterparts to have substantial retirement savings. And while black wealth has fallen in recent years, access to well-funded defined benefit pension plans could help many hard working African-American families save for retirement. Through a history of private
- [The Economic Efficiency of Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/the-economic-efficiency-of-pensions/) - Late last year, the National Institute on Retirement Security re-released a report on the economic efficiency of defined benefit pensions. This updated report, titled “Still a Better Bang for the Buck”, finds that pensions remain a more efficient and reliable means of saving for retirement than defined contribution 401(k)-style plans. Here are a few highlights
- [Pensions as Economic Stimulus](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-as-economic-stimulus/) - Earlier this week, I wrote about the economic efficiency of pensions in providing retirement income to individual workers. Defined benefit pensions have many advantages that make them more cost efficient than 401(k)s. Beyond the advantages for the individual saving for retirement, pensions also act as a means of economic stimulus in local communities. Pensions generate
- [Spotlight on: Guam](https://publicpensions.org/spotlight-on-guam/) - [rwd imageid='785' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2015/12/Guam-Pensions-NPPC.png'] When you think about public pensions, do you think about Guam? If the answer is no... well, I’m assuming everyone’s answer was no, so you’re not alone. The U.S. Territory of Guam does have something valuable to say about public pensions though because its government is considering moving away
- [The Number of Americans without Retirement Savings](https://publicpensions.org/the-number-of-americans-without-retirement-savings/) - We all know America is facing a retirement crisis. We’ve talked about it on this blog and Americans express their worries in opinion polls. Experts tell us that Americans are not saving enough for retirement. Now it’s time to take a hard look at the numbers. Forty-five percent of private sector workers don’t have access
- [Pensions Are Still Better Than 401(k)'s](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-are-still-better-than-401ks/) - If you’ve been reading this blog for a while, then you know that defined benefit pensions are superior to defined contribution 401(k)’s. Defined benefit plans pool risk collectively, optimize investment decisions, and are professionally managed with low fees. Pensions also offer the security of a guaranteed monthly payment for life. In a 401(k) plan, individual
- [2015: the Year in Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/2015-the-year-in-pensions/) - NPPC’s Executive Director Bailey Childers takes a look back at the year in pensions on the Huffington Post. We wanted to be sure you saw it too: For years firefighters, nurses, teachers, social workers, roads crews and others across the country have paid a percentage of their salary toward their retirement security. Notably, in Illinois
- [NPPC's Naughty and Nice List](https://publicpensions.org/nppcs-naughty-and-nice-list/) - ‘Tis the holiday season. While most folks now have visions of sugar plums dancing through their heads, we at the National Public Pension Coalition are still focused on protecting a secure retirement for teachers, firefighters, nurses, and other public employees. But just like a certain jolly old man up north, we keep a naughty and
- [What a Pension Means to Me](https://publicpensions.org/what-a-pension-means-to-me/) - Today’s post comes to us from Grant Wood, the coordinator of the Arizona Retirement Security Coalition. It was originally published in the Arizona Capitol Times: At 23 years old, only 18 months out of college, and with a hefty pile of student debt, you could say I’m living the typical “Millennial” experience. My work is
- [Happy New Year!](https://publicpensions.org/happy-new-year/) - Happy New Year from everyone at the National Public Pension Coalition! All Americans deserve a dignified, secure retirement and we will fight to protect retirement security for teachers, firefighters, nurses, librarians, and the many other public employees who keep our communities safe and strong. Best wishes for the year ahead!
- [Protecting Pensions in the Year Ahead](https://publicpensions.org/protecting-pensions-in-the-year-ahead/) - Legislative sessions begin in some states this week. Here’s a quick look at some of the places we’ll protect pensions in the year ahead: Kentucky: newly sworn-in Governor Matt Bevin campaigned on gutting Kentucky’s public pensions and forcing state employees into a defined contribution 401(k)-style system. The Bluegrass State is certain to be a battleground
- [Good Pension News for the New Year](https://publicpensions.org/good-pension-news-for-the-new-year/) - The new year brings a new start in politics: new state legislative sessions, new candidates running for office, and new ballot measures being proposed. 2016 is also an election year, which means people all across the country will be talking about how best to provide retirement security for public employees. Ever since the depths of
- [Wisconsin Retirement System: a Model for the Nation](https://publicpensions.org/wisconsin-retirement-system-a-model-for-the-nation/) - Pension systems thrive when they are well-funded. There is no better example of this than the Wisconsin Retirement System: it has been fully funded since 2003. There’s no secret formula here that makes WRS such a success- the state makes its required contributions each year, the employees make their contributions out of each paycheck, and
- [2016 State Outlook: Colorado](https://publicpensions.org/2016-state-outlook-colorado/) - [rwd imageid='781' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2016/01/Colorado-Pensions-NPPC.png'] The Colorado state legislature begins its 2016 legislative session today, with pensions and retirement security both on the agenda for this year’s session. During the break between the 2015 and 2016 legislative sessions, three reports were released that looked at the cost effectiveness, efficiency, and funded status of Colorado’s
- [2016 State Outlook: Michigan](https://publicpensions.org/2016-state-outlook-michigan/) - [rwd imageid='779' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2016/01/Michigan-Pensions-NPPC.png'] This week the Michigan state legislature began its 2016 legislative session. As legislators there consider how best to provide retirement security to public employees, it’s important to look back on Michigan’s history. In 1997, Michigan closed its defined benefit pension plan for state employees and forced new hires into
- [The Star Wars Theory of Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/the-star-wars-theory-of-retirement/) - Last week, NPPC’s executive director Bailey Childers wrote on CNBC about the December 2015 jobs report. She talked about how the release of Star Wars: the Force Awakens accounted for thousands of new jobs, but those jobs aren’t likely to offer any form of retirement security to workers. This reflects a larger trend toward low-wage,
- [Retirement on the Rocks](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-on-the-rocks/) - Yesterday, economics professor Christian Weller spoke at the Center for American Progress about his new book Retirement on the Rocks. His book presents a detailed look at the retirement crisis facing Americans. Not only does he diagnose the problem, but he offers solutions to the imminent crisis. Weller says many Americans today are “muddling through
- [2016 State Outlook: Missouri](https://publicpensions.org/2016-state-outlook-missouri/) - [rwd imageid='776' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2016/01/Missouri-Pensions-NPPC.png'] Retirees and public employees in Missouri should feel good about the security of their retirement. Missouri’s public pensions are healthy and state politicians have largely avoided unnecessary, misguided attacks on pensions. Last year, the executive director of the Public School Retirement System of Missouri reported to a group of
- [2016 State Outlook: Virginia](https://publicpensions.org/2016-state-outlook-virginia/) - [rwd imageid='772' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2016/01/Virginia-NPPC-Pensions.png'] Virginia’s public employees have endured a couple rounds of cuts to their defined benefit pensions in the past several years. Most recently, in 2012, the Virginia General Assembly passed a law that forced new hires, starting January 1, 2014, into a “combo” defined benefit/defined contribution plan. That came just
- [The Inefficiencies of Existing Retirement Savings Incentives](https://publicpensions.org/the-inefficiencies-of-existing-retirement-savings-incentives/) - Last week I wrote about the book release of Retirement on the Rocks by Professor Christian Weller. In addition to being an economics professor at UMass-Boston, Weller is also a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress. In October 2015, CAP released a report that he co-authored with Teresa Ghilarducci, the director of the
- [Iowa Caucus](https://publicpensions.org/iowa-caucus/) - Tonight is the Iowa caucus, the kick off of the presidential nominating process for both Republicans and Democrats. We’ve heard a lot from the presidential candidates, but not a lot about retirement security. Before we talk about the candidates though, let’s talk about the state that is the focus of everyone’s attention today. Did you
- [2016 State Outlook: Oklahoma](https://publicpensions.org/2016-state-outlook-oklahoma/) - [rwd imageid='765' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2016/02/Oklahoma-Pensions.png'] Oklahoma’s 2016 state legislative session starts today. Oklahoma has been in the news a lot recently for a couple of big problems: a teacher shortage and a revenue failure. Neither of those issues directly affects public pensions in the state, but they could (we’ll have more to say on
- [2016 State Outlook: Alabama](https://publicpensions.org/2016-state-outlook-alabama/) - [rwd imageid='768' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2016/02/Alabama-Pensions.png' alt="Alabama State Pensions"] Alabama has strong public pensions. The Retirement Systems of Alabama manages assets of over $37 billion and annually pay out close to $3 million in benefits. RSA earns strong returns on their investments, while having the lowest investment costs in the public pension industry. Yet despite
- [Did you know Peyton Manning has a pension?](https://publicpensions.org/did-you-know-peyton-manning-has-a-pension/) - Last night the Denver Broncos won Super Bowl 50. For Denver’s starting quarterback Peyton Manning, this was almost certainly his last game before retirement. Once Manning enters retirement, there is one thing he can count on: his defined benefit pension. NFL players participate in the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle NFL Player Retirement Plan. NFL players are
- [New Hampshire Primary](https://publicpensions.org/new-hampshire-primary/) - Today is the New Hampshire presidential primary. As in Iowa last week, presidential candidates of both parties have been canvassing the state hoping to win votes at the ballot box. Also like Iowa, New Hampshire public employees earn a defined benefit pension for their retirement. Recently, however, anti-pension ideologues have been attempting to gut pensions
- [Spotlight on: Josh McGee](https://publicpensions.org/spotlight-on-josh-mcgee/) - It might not be on your calendar, but today is the first meeting of the Texas Pension Review Board this year. The PRB consists of seven members appointed by the governor to oversee public pension plans in the state. Recently, Gov. Greg Abbott appointed a new board chair: Josh McGee. If that name sounds familiar,
- [Love Your Pension!](https://publicpensions.org/love-your-pension/) - Sunday is Valentine’s Day. People all across the country will be giving chocolates and roses to the ones they love. Here at NPPC we love public pensions- and we know you do too! Pensions have everything you are looking for: they are reliable, they take care of you in your old age, and they offer
- [It's elementary: pensions are better for teachers than 401(k)s](https://publicpensions.org/its-elementary-pensions-are-better-for-teachers-than-401ks/) - A recent study from researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, confirmed what we here at NPPC already know: traditional defined benefit pensions provide more retirement income for teachers than 401(k)-style plans. This comes as a surprise to no one. Defined contribution 401(k)-style plans are inherently risky because they depend so heavily on stock market
- [The Truth About Cash Balance Pension Plans](https://publicpensions.org/the-truth-about-cash-balance-pension-plans/) - We’ve mentioned cash balance pension plans a few times on this blog. Pew's Public Sector Retirement Systems project and the Arnold Foundation have been actively pushing cash balance plans in Kansas, Kentucky, Alabama, and Virginia. They tout cash balance plans as a solution to the problem of pension underfunding, as some magic combination of defined
- [2016 State Outlook: Wyoming](https://publicpensions.org/2016-state-outlook-wyoming/) - [rwd imageid='759' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2016/02/Wyoming-NPPC-Pensions-4.png' alt="Wyoming Pensions Retirement"] Almost all public employees in Wyoming have their defined benefit pension managed by the Wyoming Retirement System. WRS manages eight separate pension plans for over 700 different employers statewide. These include pension plans for firefighters, law enforcement officers, and public employees, which includes teachers and state
- [Chris Christie: Not Just Bad on Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/chris-christie-not-just-bad-on-pensions/) - Earlier this month New Jersey Governor Chris Christie ended his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination. For the people of New Jersey, this will hopefully mean serious financial issues the state is facing can now be addressed. Christie virtually ignored his state while pursuing his presidential ambitions and New Jersey desperately needs some real leadership
- [The Truth About Pew's Public Sector Retirement Systems Project](https://publicpensions.org/the-truth-about-the-pew-research-center/) - The Public Sector Retirement Systems project, a division of the Pew Charitable Trusts, is a well-known source of information on a variety of topics from religion in public life to the health of the oceans. In one particular area though, Pew publishes misleading research funded by shady money. The Public Sector Retirement Systems project of
- [State Pension Update: a Win for Indiana Teachers](https://publicpensions.org/state-pension-update-a-win-for-indiana-teachers/) - Teachers in Indiana scored a victory last week when a controversial bill that would have made harmful changes to their state pension was defeated. House Bill 1004 died in the state senate due to a lack of support. While HB 1004 contained several controversial education-related provisions, the pension-related provision would have allowed school districts to
- [The Big Short and Your Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/big-short-retirement/) - The Big Short only won one Oscar on Sunday night- for Best Adapted Screenplay- but it’s still a winner for us here at NPPC. The film tells an important story about how reckless greed on Wall Street wiped out the retirement savings of many Americans during the Great Recession. The Oscar-nominated film unpacks sub-prime mortgages,
- [State Pension Update: Expanding Pensions in Wisconsin](https://publicpensions.org/state-pension-update-wisconsin/) - As we’ve written before, Wisconsin has one of the best public pension systems in the country. The Wisconsin Retirement System is a model state pension system that is well-funded and provides a secure retirement to public employees throughout the Badger State. Last week, Governor Scott Walker signed a bill that will expand access to that
- [International Women’s Day: Women Need Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/international-womens-day-retirement-security/) - Today is International Women’s Day and around the world, people will celebrate the accomplishments of women. But today is also a day to reflect on the challenges women still face. One major challenge facing women in the United States is retirement security. Shortchanged in Retirement, a new report by the National Institute on Retirement Security
- [Chuck Reed, San Jose, and the Fiasco of Measure B](https://publicpensions.org/chuck-reed-san-jose-fiasco-measure-b/) - I’ve mentioned Chuck Reed a couple times before on this blog. He’s the former mayor of San Jose, CA, who led a misguided attempt to gut pensions for public employees there. Even after his failure in San Jose, he’s made several attempts to eliminate pensions at the statewide level in California. Now he’s joined up
- [Student Loan Debt Reduces Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/student-loan-debt-retirement-security/) - The amount of student loan debt has increased significantly in the last decade. A study by Experian found that student loan debt had risen 84 percent from 2008 to 2014. A new report reveals the threat this poses to retirement security for future generations. The Center for Retirement Research (CRR) at Boston College released its
- [State Pension Update, Spring Break Edition: Florida](https://publicpensions.org/state-pension-update-florida/) - Many colleges and universities are on spring break this week. Students from across the country will be flocking to Florida’s beaches to take a break from school and soak up the sun. While these students may be able to enjoy a week of relaxation, many Floridians don’t feel so relaxed about their retirement. And a
- [March Madness: Pensions Are a Slam Dunk for Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/march-madness-pensions-retirement/) - The NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments kicked off last week. As always, there were major upsets as underdogs beat expectations and high-seeded teams lost earlier than expected. While March Madness is sweeping the nation, we here at NPPC are going mad over something else: pensions. We love pensions as much as an undergrad loves
- [Puerto Rico, Pensions, and Vulture Hedge Funds](https://publicpensions.org/puerto-rico-pensions-vulture-hedge-funds/) - Puerto Rico is currently experiencing a debt crisis. This crisis has plagued the island for years and is reminiscent of other debt crises in Detroit, Greece, and Argentina. Today, we will look at one often overlooked aspect of Puerto Rico’s debt crisis: the plight of Puerto Rico’s pensioners. Puerto Rico’s pension system is almost completely
- [Retirement Security Often Overlooked in Conversation Around Teacher Shortage](https://publicpensions.org/oklahoma-teacher-pension-report/) - Today NPPC released a new report showing how teacher pensions help alleviate the severe teacher shortage in Oklahoma. The report- “Retirement Security Often Overlooked in Conversation Around Teacher Shortage”- finds that offering the security and reliability of a defined benefit pension is a proven way to recruit and retain quality teachers. Unfortunately, Oklahoma lawmakers are
- [Puerto Rico, Pensiones y Los Fondos Buitre](https://publicpensions.org/puerto-rico-pensiones-y-los-fondos-buitre/) - Puerto Rico está experimentando una crisis de deuda. Esta crisis ha afectado a la isla desde hace años y es evocadora de otras crisis de deuda como en Detroit, Grecia y Argentina. Hoy en día, vamos a ver un aspect que con frecuencia se olvida de la crisis de deuda en Puerto Rico: la difícil
- [State Pension Outlook 2016: Louisiana](https://publicpensions.org/state-pension-outlook-2016-louisiana/) - [rwd imageid='919' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2016/03/Louisiana.png'] The Louisiana legislature began its regular 2016 legislative session this month. This follows an earlier emergency special session called by the governor to address Louisiana’s severe budget crisis. As Louisiana continues to grapple with a long-term budget nightmare, some misguided legislators have called for harmful cuts to public pensions.
- [Pensions: a Grand Slam for Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-grand-slam-retirement-security/) - Yesterday was Opening Day for Major League Baseball. At this point in the season, teams are full of expectations. The Royals will look to defend their World Series title; the Cubs will look to end a 107 year old drought; and the Giants will hope to continue their even year championship streak. Similarly, public workers
- [State Pension Update 2016: Wyoming](https://publicpensions.org/state-pension-update-2016-wyoming/) - Wyoming concluded its brief 2016 legislative session last month. The 2016 session was brief because it was exclusively focused on passing a budget. The good news for working people in Wyoming is that the legislature maintained its commitment to fully funding its state pension plan. As we’ve written before, Wyoming’s state pension plan covers almost
- [Equal Pay Day and Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/equal-pay-day-retirement/) - Today is Equal Pay Day. This represents how far into 2016 a woman would have to work to earn what a man got paid in 2015 alone. On average, American women earn 79 cents for every dollar a man makes. The gender pay gap is real and it has consequences throughout a woman’s life, including
- [How Many Tax Dollars Go to Public Pensions?](https://publicpensions.org/many-tax-dollars-go-public-pensions/) - With Tax Day right around the corner, we thought this would be an appropriate time to answer the question: how many tax dollars go to public pensions? As we’ve written before, public pensions receive funds from three sources: employer contributions, employee contributions, and investment returns. Teachers, firefighters, and other public employees contribute a portion of
- [What is a Discount Rate and Why Does It Matter?](https://publicpensions.org/discount-rate-matter/) - Pensions often seem confusing because there are a number of technical details associated with them. While actuaries and economists may enjoy debating the finer points of these technical matters, most workers and retirees just want to know if their pension is going to be there when they need it. However, one question we’ve gotten is:
- [Michigan Lobby Day 2016](https://publicpensions.org/michigan-lobby-day-2016/) - This week a group of dedicated retirees in Michigan descended on Lansing to stand up for the retirement of their younger counterparts by lobbying their legislators to protect pensions. We often cite Michigan as an example of a state that moved some (but not all) public employees from a defined benefit pension to a 401(k)-style
- [Why Do Pension Boards Matter?](https://publicpensions.org/pension-boards-matter/) - We’ve written before about where public pensions get their money: the employer and the employee both contribute to the pension fund, that money gets invested, and the investment returns provide the majority of money used to pay retirement benefits to teachers, firefighters, and other public employees. Those funds don’t invest themselves, however. Public pension funds
- [National Teacher Appreciation Day](https://publicpensions.org/national-teacher-appreciation-day/) - Today is National Teacher Appreciation Day. Here at NPPC we appreciate teachers everyday and the valuable contributions they make to our communities. However, today, let’s take a look at how teachers benefit from the security of a defined benefit pension. Offering a defined benefit pension is a proven way for schools to recruit and retain
- [Do It Yourself Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/do-it-yourself-retirement/) - Over the past thirty years, pensions have almost disappeared in the private sector. Fortunately, pensions are still fairly common in the public sector, but even there, they are under attack. This decline in the availability of pensions represents a shift from a retirement system where everyone pools their resources and gets the promise of a
- [Early Retirement May Be Unavoidable](https://publicpensions.org/early-retirement-may-unavoidable/) - The full retirement age for Social Security is gradually moving from 65 to 67. Some politicians want to raise it even higher. Additionally, some people say the solution to America's retirement security crisis is to work longer. For many workers, however, this is just not an option as they are forced to retire early due
- [Donald Trump and Your Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/donald-trump-retirement/) - [This post was updated in August 2016 to reflect new developments.] Donald Trump is now the Republican presidential nominee. After his decisive victory in the Indiana Republican primary, his two remaining rivals- Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and Ohio Gov. John Kasich- dropped out of the race. Trump won the Republican presidential nomination on the first
- [State Pension Recap: 2016 Sessions](https://publicpensions.org/state-pension-recap-2016-sessions/) - By this point in the year, many state legislatures have either already finished their 2016 session or will conclude within the next couple weeks. For working families and retirees, the news has been mostly good so far. Legislatures in several states have acted to improve state pension systems. Let’s take a look at what has
- [Are Hedge Funds Hurting Your Pension?](https://publicpensions.org/hedge-funds-hurting-pension/) - Public pensions have a complicated and increasingly strained relationship with hedge funds. While many pensions have increased their investments in hedge funds and other alternative assets, other pensions are turning away from these funds and looking for less expensive investments. Institutional Investor recently released its 2016 “Rich List” of the top 25 hedge fund managers.
- [Cities Are Sticking With Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/cities-sticking-pensions/) - As we explained last week, 2016 has been a good year so far for pensions in state legislatures across the country. However, states aren’t the only ones choosing to protect their workers’ retirement security by protecting pensions. Cities are also protecting and expanding access to pensions. In Lincoln, NE, a pension review committee examined different
- [401(k)s are failing most American workers](https://publicpensions.org/401ks-failing-american-workers/) - If you are a long time reader of Defined Benefit, then you know that we are no fan of 401(k)s here. As 401(k)s have increasingly replaced defined benefit pensions, the retirement security of many Americans has eroded. A new report from the GAO offers new evidence that 401(k)s are failing many American working families. The
- [Student Loan Debt and Retirement: Part 2](https://publicpensions.org/student-loan-debt-retirement-part-2/) - Back in March, we wrote about how high levels of student loan debt are decreasing retirement security for many Americans. A report from the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College had found that current levels of student loan debt had significantly increased the risk of having inadequate income in retirement for many households. Recently
- [Puerto Rico and Pensions: the Basics](https://publicpensions.org/puerto-rico-pensions-basics/) - Puerto Rico and its debt crisis remain in the news as Congress considers legislation to help the island territory restructure and manage its debt. Puerto Rico’s pensioners remain trapped in this crisis as well. Just last week, a new audit of the territory’s pension system by KPMG found that the pension system there could run
- [Pensions Keep People Out of Poverty](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-keep-people-poverty/) - A couple weeks ago, the New York Times ran an excellent article on women and retirement. The article discusses the unique challenges facing women in preparing for retirement. It also highlights that women who work in fields where defined benefit pensions are more common, like education and public administration, are less likely to be in
- [Real Pensions, Real People](https://publicpensions.org/real-pensions-real-people/) - Teachers. Firefighters. Police officers. Behind every pension is a public servant who has dedicated their career to keeping our communities safe and prosperous. Popular rhetoric around public pensions often distracts from the true issue at hand; these aren't numbers, these are real people whose livelihoods depend on receiving the secure and dignified retirement they were
- [Make Retirement Security a Priority](https://publicpensions.org/make-retirement-security-priority/) - Last week NPPC’s Executive Director, Bailey Childers, submitted testimony to the Democratic National Committee’s Platform Committee encouraging them to include retirement security as part of the 2016 platform. So far this year, the presidential candidates have said little about retirement security, aside from calls from some Republican candidates to cut Social Security benefits. We hope
- [State Spending and the Funding of Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/state-spending-funding-pensions/) - If you are a long time reader of Defined Benefit, then you know that pensions remain the best way for working families to save for retirement. Pensions are more cost-effective than defined contribution 401(k)-style plans and provide more income in retirement than those plans. However, opponents of pensions will often claim that pensions are too
- [State Pension Update 2016: Louisiana end of session](https://publicpensions.org/state-pension-update-2016-louisiana/) - Last week, the Louisiana legislature concluded its second special session of the year. Sandwiched in between those special sessions was its brief regular session. Despite the ongoing budget challenges there, this was a successful year in the fight to protect pensions. One of the main issues in the fight to protect pensions in Louisiana is
- [How Are Pension Benefits Calculated?](https://publicpensions.org/pension-benefits-calculated/) - Defined benefit pensions are the most secure and reliable way to provide retirement security for working families. The key feature of pensions is that they pay a guaranteed monthly benefit for life. This provides retirees with unparalleled retirement security and keeps retired public employees out of poverty. People often wonder though, how are those monthly
- [Retirement is Hard if You're Poor](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-hard-youre-poor/) - We’ve written before about how 401(k)s favor the wealthy, but also how pensions can help low-income workers prepare to retire. In general, low-income workers struggle to save for retirement and that is reflected in the large disparity in retirement savings between the wealthy and the poor. Two new studies shed further light on this subject.
- [The Great Recession and Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/great-recession-public-pensions/) - The 2008 financial crisis- dubbed “The Great Recession” by many- had devastating consequences throughout the American economy. Public pension plans were among the hardest hit by the Wall Street greed that led to the crisis. Many public pensions suffered steep investment losses in the several years immediately following the financial crisis- losses they are still
- [You Can Take It With You: Pensions and Portability](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-portability/) - A new report out this week from the National Institute on Retirement Security offers some new insights about the portability of defined benefit pensions. According to the report, pensions have a fairly high degree of portability. One common criticism of pensions by anti-pension ideologues is that they aren’t portable, meaning, if you leave your job
- [How will the Republican convention affect your retirement?](https://publicpensions.org/will-republican-convention-affect-retirement/) - Today the Republican Party kicks off its presidential nominating convention. The GOP is expected to nominate reality TV star Donald Trump for president and Indiana Governor Mike Pence for vice president. We’ve expressed concern in the past about Trump and his support for working families and their retirement. As CEO of Trump Enterprises, he offered
- [State Budgets and Public Pensions: Kansas](https://publicpensions.org/state-budget-public-pensions-kansas/) - Public pensions play a major role in state budgets. This also means that the budget and tax decisions made by state legislatures and governors have a big impact on public pensions. In no state is this relationship better demonstrated than Kansas. Since the election in 2010 of right-wing Governor Sam Brownback, Kansas has been gripped
- [The Democratic National Convention Stands Up for Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/democratic-national-convention-pensions/) - The Democratic Party begins its convention today in Philadelphia. The Democrats will nominate former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to be their presidential nominee and Senator Tim Kaine to be her running mate. The party will also approve the party platform for the upcoming general election. Why does this matter? Because the Democratic Party platform
- [Private and Public Pensions and the State of Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/private-public-pensions-retirement-security/) - At one time, defined benefit pensions were the most common retirement plan for working people. Workers in both the public and private sectors enjoyed the security and reliability of pensions in planning for retirement. These workers knew that if they worked hard and played by the rules, they would be able to enjoy a dignified
- [What Happened to Private Sector Pensions?](https://publicpensions.org/happened-private-sector-pensions/) - It is one of the most well-known stories about American retirement: the decline of defined benefit pensions in the private sector. At one time, 88 percent of private sector workers who had a workplace retirement plan had a pension. That number is now 33 percent. So what happened? Where did all the private sector pensions
- [Going for the Gold in Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/going-gold-retirement/) - The Opening Ceremonies for the 2016 Olympic Games were held in Rio de Janeiro last Friday. Four days into the competition, medals have been awarded, dreams have been fulfilled, and millions watching at home have been inspired. Just like the Olympic athletes preparing for the games, preparing for retirement takes years of hard work, dedication,
- [How Has Pension Wealth Changed Over Time?](https://publicpensions.org/pension-wealth-changed-time/) - As we’ve written about extensively on this blog, employer-sponsored retirement plans have changed a lot over time. In the private sector, 401(k)s have largely replaced defined benefit pensions and this shift has weakened the retirement security of working families. 401(k)s favor the wealthy and a new study provides further evidence of this fact. A new
- [Even Major Universities Can’t Beat High 401(k) Fees](https://publicpensions.org/even-major-universities-cant-beat-high-401k-fees/) - Last week eight major universities were sued by their own employees for failing to curb excessive fees in their retirement plans. In a series of class action lawsuits filed across the country, the plaintiffs allege that the universities failed to uphold their fiduciary duty to bargain for lower fees, eliminate underperforming investments, and reduce the
- [How to Reduce Houston's Pension Liabilities](https://publicpensions.org/reduce-houston-pension-liabilities/) - Last week the Kinder Institute at Rice University released a report examining the causes of the growth in Houston’s unfunded pension liabilities. The report also proposed several possible changes to reduce the unfunded liability. The report focuses on the combination of factors over the past 21 years that have contributed to the increase in unfunded
- [Chile and the Failure of a Privatized Pension System](https://publicpensions.org/chile-failure-privatized-pension-system/) - In 1981, during the dictatorship of General Augusto Pinochet, Chile radically reformed its pension system. It changed from a traditional public pension system to a system of mandatory individual retirement accounts. These accounts are privately managed by firms selected by the government and workers are required to contribute 10 percent of their earnings to the
- [Does Oklahoma's Revenue Crisis Threaten Pensions?](https://publicpensions.org/oklahoma-revenue-crisis-pensions/) - Last month on the blog, we talked about Kansas and how harmful right-wing tax policy there had ruined the state’s budget and threatened public pensions and other critical state services. A similar situation is happening in Oklahoma. Just like in Kansas, a right-wing governor, working with a conservative-dominated legislature, passed massive tax cuts for corporations
- [The Decline of Pensions is Bad for Low-Income Workers](https://publicpensions.org/decline-pensions-bad-low-income-workers/) - If you are a regular reader of Defined Benefit, then you already know that we don’t care for defined contribution plans like 401(k)s that have many failings when compared to traditional pensions. One of these failings is that they provide little in retirement security for low-income working families. Let's take a look back at the
- [Pensions in 60 Seconds](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-60-seconds-video/) - Every American who works hard and plays by the rules should be able to retire with security and dignity. Defined benefit pensions make that possible. Learn how pensions provide the most secure retirement for millions of working people, in 60 seconds or less.
- [Public Pensions Work - And These Three Systems Prove It](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-work-three-systems/) - It turns out the secret to a strong public pension system isn’t a secret at all: fully funding the pension every year is the most important thing cities and states can do to have a strong public pension system. Today NPPC released a new report entitled Public Pensions Work - And These Three Systems Prove
- [Public Pensions Help Grow States’ Economies](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-grow-states-economies/) - State and local public pensions generate significant amounts of economic activity nationally each year. In 2014, state and local public pension plans paid $253 billion to 9.6 million retirees and their beneficiaries. These pension benefits helped to support over 3.4 million jobs. This is according to a report released today by the National Institute on
- [Pension Woes Continue in Kentucky](https://publicpensions.org/pension-woes-continue-kentucky/) - It’s a tough time for Kentucky’s public pensions. According to one recent report, Kentucky has the most poorly funded public pensions in the country. In his budget this year, first-term governor Matt Bevin moved to increase funding for the commonwealth’s public pensions, but then he picked a fight with the director of the Kentucky public
- [Hillary Clinton and Your Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/hillary-clinton-retirement-pensions/) - Last night was the first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. With just over a month to go, the presidential campaign is as close as it has ever been. We’ve written fairly extensively about Donald Trump and what his presidency could mean for your retirement. What, though, would a Hillary Clinton presidency mean
- [Wisconsin’s Retirees Benefit From Strong Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/wisconsin-retirees-public-pensions/) - Earlier this week the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel published a lengthy article about state and local government obligations to retirees in Wisconsin. Much of the article focused on the costs of retiree health care obligations. The article was generally positive when it came to pension obligations, praising the Wisconsin Retirement System for being fully funded. We’ve
- [The Vice Presidential Candidates and Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/vice-presidential-candidates-public-pensions/) - Tonight is the vice presidential debate for the 2016 campaign. While it certainly lacks the hype of the first presidential debate last week, tonight’s debate should be an opportunity for substantive discussion between two experienced politicians. Both Tim Kaine and Mike Pence have served as governors of their states as well as serving in Congress.
- [Can States Manage Their Pension Obligations?](https://publicpensions.org/can-states-manage-pension-obligations/) - Can states and localities manage their pension obligations? The answer, according to the Center for Retirement Research, is yes. In a new brief released earlier this month, researchers at CRR assess the true costs of pensions, other post-employment benefits (OPEBs), and debt service for states, counties, and cities. They then compare these costs to own-source revenue
- [It’s National Retirement Security Week 2016!](https://publicpensions.org/national-retirement-security-week-2016/) - It’s the third week of October and that means it’s National Retirement Security Week! Formerly called “National Save for Retirement Week”, this week is intended to promote retirement savings to the American public. This week is established by a U.S. Senate resolution, but is used primarily by the private investment industry to promote its products
- [How Pensions Provide Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-provide-retirement-security/) - This is National Retirement Security Week. Typically, this week is used by the private investment industry to promote their products, such as 401(k)s, that provide little in the way of actual retirement security for working families. On Monday, we documented the many ways in which 401(k)s fail to provide an adequate retirement for most workers.
- [Retirement Preparedness Saves Everyone Money](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-preparedness-saves-money/) - We here at NPPC love pensions because they provide working families with a reliable and secure source of income in retirement. By contributing to their pension with a portion of every paycheck, public employees are earning deferred compensation that will provide them with a secure retirement. Many, but not all, public employees also participate in
- [Haunted House of Pension Horrors: 2016 Edition](https://publicpensions.org/haunted-house-pension-horrors-2016/) - Today is Halloween. Last year we took you on a tour through the Haunted House of Pension Horrors. Once again the frightening specter of threats to public pensions has returned, so on this most spooky of nights, let’s behold the pension ghouls playing tricks on hard-working Americans. The Threat Lurking in the Shadows: John Arnold
- [Pensions and Retirement: 2016 Election Preview](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-2016-election-preview/) - Next Tuesday, November 8th, is Election Day. The marquee event of Election Day will be the presidential election between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. We’ve written about both candidates and what their elections could mean for pensions and your retirement. There are, however, a number of other candidates and issues on the ballot next week,
- [San Jose Pension Victory: Measure F Passes!](https://publicpensions.org/san-jose-pension-victory/) - Last week’s election results were unexpected, to say the least. Few people projected Donald Trump to win the presidential race. While we’ve expressed doubts about Trump’s commitment to retirement security for working families, much is still uncertain about the future Trump administration. There was one clear pension victory though: Measure F passed in San Jose,
- [Pensions Are the Solution to the Retirement Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-solution-retirement-crisis/) - It’s increasingly obvious that there is a retirement savings crisis in the United States. At any given time, half of working Americans don’t have access to a retirement savings plan through their employer. Even workers who do have an employer-sponsored plan are mostly in risky and inadequate 401(k) plans. For companies that do still offer
- [The True Value of a Pension](https://publicpensions.org/2750-2/) - It’s that time of year again. On Thursday families across the country will gather to overindulge on turkey and pumpkin pie while trying desperately to steer clear of any mention of politics. Despite the tumultuous events of the past year, there is plenty to be grateful for this Thanksgiving. For millions of public employees and
- [Will President Trump Address the Retirement Savings Crisis?](https://publicpensions.org/president-trump-retirement-savings-crisis/) - Now that Donald Trump is settling in as the president-elect, he is beginning to outline the priorities for his administration. As with many issues regarding Trump, it is hard to say for sure where he stands on Social Security, public pensions, and retirement security in general. Here are a few potential ways President Trump could
- [Retirement Savings Lessons from the United Kingdom](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-savings-united-kingdom/) - The United States faces a retirement savings crisis. Just over half of all workers don’t have access to a retirement savings plan through their employer. Most working families, even near-retirement age households, have very little saved for retirement. The United Kingdom faces a similar challenge, but has decided to take bold steps to address it.
- [Protecting Public Pensions in Michigan](https://publicpensions.org/protecting-public-pensions-michigan/) - Anti-pension ideologues in the Michigan legislature have wanted to gut public pensions there for a long time, especially pensions for teachers. This year, they attacked teachers’ retirement security during the lame duck legislative session, but they were defeated by the strong backlash from working people. This was a victory for working families, but we can
- [The Pension Protection Act Decreased Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/pension-protection-act-retirement-security/) - In August, we wrote about the decline of traditional pensions in the private sector. One of the major reasons for private companies abandoning pensions was a series of laws beginning in the 1980s and culminating in the Pension Protection Act of 2006. These laws, in various ways, increased the volatility of pension plan funding and
- [How Much Should Public Employees Save for Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/public-employees-save-retirement/) - As we’ve written about on this blog, the prevalence of defined benefit pensions has declined in the private sector and this has hurt working families. In the public sector, though, defined benefit pensions remain quite common. According to a recent report by the Center for State and Local Government Excellence, 93 percent of state and
- [Public Pensions Help Local Communities Thrive](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-help-local-communities/) - Often when we talk about public pensions, we focus on the individual teacher, firefighter, or other public employee who earns a secure retirement through their pension. That is certainly one of the best features of defined benefit pensions: workers know they can retire with a reliable benefit that will cover them for the rest of
- [National Public Pension Coalition’s Naughty and Nice List 2016](https://publicpensions.org/public-pension-naughty-nice-list/) - Around this time of year, many children- and some adults- are very concerned about whether they made it onto the naughty or nice list of a jolly old man who lives up north. Here at NPPC, we also keep a naughty or nice list. We know if you’ve been bad or good when it comes
- [Public Pensions in the Year Ahead: 2017 Preview](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-year-ahead-2017-preview/) - All in all, 2016 was a good year for public pensions. States and cities chose to protect and preserve their defined benefit pension plans and the city of Palm Beach, FL, moved back to a defined benefit plan from an unpopular hybrid plan. What do we expect for 2017? Let’s take a look at the
- [The 401(k) Has Failed as a Replacement for Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/401k-failed-replacement-pensions/) - In an article published by the Wall Street Journal this week, the creators of the 401(k) reflected on the consequences of the product they promoted. The takeaway: many of the early advocates of 401(k)s now regret the “revolution” they helped to start. As you know if you are a regular reader of this blog, 401(k)s
- [States Have Made Changes, But Are Sticking With Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/states-made-changes-sticking-pensions/) - A recent report from the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College looked at state and local pension plans and whether there had been changes to those plans since the financial crisis. The report’s authors found that three-fourths of state pension plans and more than half of local pension plans had made changes since 2009.
- [Betsy DeVos and Public Pensions in Michigan](https://publicpensions.org/betsy-devos-public-pensions-michigan/) - President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Michigan billionaire Betsy DeVos to be the Secretary of Education in his upcoming administration. If that name sounds familiar, it should. The DeVos family is a major advocate for gutting public pensions in Michigan. Should Betsy DeVos be confirmed by the Senate as Education Secretary, she could pose a significant
- [John Arnold Is Attacking Pensions in Nebraska](https://publicpensions.org/john-arnold-attacking-pensions-nebraska/) - It’s still early in 2017 and state legislative sessions haven’t even begun in every state yet. John Arnold, however, is already on the attack. Arnold, the anti-pension billionaire and former trader at the disgraced Enron, who has spent over $50 million to attack pensions nationwide, is active in Texas, South Carolina, and Nebraska so far.
- [Governor Sam Brownback’s Budget – What You Should Know](https://publicpensions.org/2879-2/) - Governor Sam Brownback of Kansas is at it again. If you’ve followed our blog over the last couple of years, as well as the news, you know that Kansas is in fiscal disarray. In 2011, when he first took office, Brownback promised a conservative utopia – low taxes for corporations and individuals, slashing of public
- [Public Pension Funds Continue to Recover from the Recession](https://publicpensions.org/public-pension-funds-recover-recession/) - It’s well-known that public pension funds took a major hit during the financial crisis. We’ve written before about the steep drop in funding levels from 2008 - 2009 when the economy was crashing due to Wall Street greed and incompetence. The story that’s less well-known is that the majority of public pension funds continue to
- [NPPC Is Here to Help You Protect Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-help-protect-pensions/) - It’s still early in 2017 and the fight to protect pensions is just beginning. John Arnold is on the attack against pensions in Nebraska, South Carolina, and Texas. Anti-pension legislators in Michigan are threatening to reintroduce legislation that would gut teacher pensions there. And legislators from Florida to Virginia to Oklahoma are introducing legislation that
- [Attacks on Pensions Keep Happening Again and Again](https://publicpensions.org/attacks-pensions-keep-happening/) - Today is Groundhog Day. Everyone’s favorite groundhog- Punxsutawney Phil- will stick his head out of the ground and look for his shadow. Legend has it that if Phil sees his shadow, we’ll have six more weeks of winter. Many of you may also remember a film called Groundhog Day, which stars Bill Murray as a
- [What would Andrew Puzder mean for workers’ retirement?](https://publicpensions.org/andrew-puzder-mean-workers-retirement/) - President Donald Trump has nominated Andrew Puzder to be Secretary of Labor. Puzder is the CEO of CKE Restaurants, which is the parent company of Hardee’s and Carl’s Jr. Puzder’s confirmation hearing in the Senate has been delayed four times and is currently postponed indefinitely until Puzder completes required ethics paperwork. If his confirmation hearing
- [Moving Maryland workers into a 401(k) plan would harm retirement security](https://publicpensions.org/maryland-401k-harm-retirement-security/) - Maryland Governor Larry Hogan recently proposed creating a 401(k)-style defined contribution plan for state employees. Future state employees would have the option of participating in this plan instead of the traditional defined benefit pension plan. Current state employees would not be able to switch to the new 401(k)-style plan and future teachers would not have
- [President Trump and Your Retirement: What We Know So Far](https://publicpensions.org/president-trump-retirement-know-far/) - Donald Trump has been president for a few weeks now. During the campaign, we speculated on what his presidency might mean for your retirement. Now that he is actually in office, we are beginning to see the signs of his approach to retirement security. As we’ve discussed in previous blog posts, President Trump has made
- [How Much is a Presidential Pension?](https://publicpensions.org/much-presidential-pension/) - Just like most legislators, former presidents receive a lifetime pension for their service. How much is that pension and what other perks do former presidents enjoy? Read on to find out! Pensions for former presidents were established by the Former Presidents Act in 1958. Before the FPA was enacted, ex-presidents did not receive pensions or
- [Three States That Abandoned Their Pensions - And Suffered The Consequences](https://publicpensions.org/abandoned_pensions_consequences/) - What happens when a state abandons its defined benefit pension for a riskier, 401(K)-style plan? Taxpayers lose - According to the National Institute on Retirement Security, “for a given level of retirement income, a typical 401(k) plan costs 91% more than a typical pension plan.” Unfunded liabilities increase - closing a pension system exacerbates funding
- [Defined Benefit Pensions and Racial Equity in Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-racial-equity-retirement/) - A report released today finds that three-fourths of Americans- both Democrats and Republicans- are concerned about their ability to retire securely. Unfortunately, this lack of retirement preparedness affects some communities more profoundly than others. Black households earn significantly less income than white households. This inequality in income leads to inequality in overall household wealth, which
- [Secure Choice Retirement Plans: What You Need to Know](https://publicpensions.org/secure-choice-retirement-plans-need-know/) - Roughly half of private sector workers do not have access to a retirement plan through their employer. For most of these workers, that means they will have little to retire on, except for Social Security. A half-dozen states have taken the initiative to provide retirement security for these workers through programs that are often called
- [Attention South Carolina: Closing a Pension is Never a Good Idea](https://publicpensions.org/attention-south-carolina-closing-pension-never-good-idea/) - If you’re a devoted reader of Defined Benefit, then you know there is one way to ensure a pension plan is well-funded: employees and employers alike must make contributions to the plan annually - and in full. State employees like firefighters, sanitation workers and nurses never miss a payment. As for state governments, most pay
- [Are Working Families Prepared for Retirement?](https://publicpensions.org/working-families-prepared-retirement/) - It’s no secret that there is a retirement savings crisis in the United States. Financial planners frequently warn that Americans are not saving enough for retirement. Stagnating wages and the gradual disappearance of pensions in the private sector make it that much more difficult to save. The results of a recent survey by the National
- [Pensions are Still Important for Oklahoma Teachers](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-important-oklahoma-teachers/) - For school districts, fire departments, and other government entities across the nation, public pensions are an important tool for recruiting and retaining high-quality public employees. In Oklahoma, defined benefit pensions for teachers are especially valuable given the ongoing teacher shortage and the continuing cuts to education funding in state. Today NPPC released a new report-
- [Cesar Chavez: Pension Pioneer](https://publicpensions.org/cesar-chavez-pension-pioneer/) - Today we commemorate the life and achievements of Cesar Chavez - one of our country’s preeminent social justice champions. Born on March 31, 1927 in Yuma, Arizona, Chavez spent his life fighting for better treatment, fair pay and improved working conditions for farm workers. In 1962 Chavez founded the National Farm Workers Association - later
- ["It was a disaster": Garry Lynne Shearer's Story](https://publicpensions.org/garry-lynne-shearers-story/) - When a state closes a public pension system, the consequences are widely felt. Unfunded liabilities skyrocket and plan costs rise. Defined contribution 401(k) plans cost 91% more than pensions, with the burden falling on taxpayers. No one feels these consequences more directly, however, than the public employees whose retirement security is on the line. In
- [National Retirement Planning Week](https://publicpensions.org/national-retirement-planning-week/) - This week is National Retirement Planning Week. During this week, the financial services industry encourages Americans to focus on setting aside what they’ll ultimately need for a secure retirement. Unfortunately, many Americans will only be able to save for retirement through an IRAs or 401(k). As the loyal readers of Defined Benefit already know though,
- [Special Interest Groups And Your Pension: What You Need To Know](https://publicpensions.org/special-interest-groups-pension/) - Long-time readers of Defined Benefit are familiar with John Arnold, the money behind many attacks on public pensions. Loyal readers have also heard about the Pew Research Center, which uses Arnold’s money to promote flawed anti-pension research, and the Retirement Security Initiative, a national special interest group led by some prominent anti-pension politicians. Today we’re
- ['Should I Stay or Should I go?' Budget Cuts Force Oklahoma Teachers to Make Tough Decisions](https://publicpensions.org/should-i-stay-or-should-i-go/) - Should I stay or should I go? This question is more than just the refrain from the insanely catchy 1982 hit by The Clash. It’s also a daily quandary facing Oklahoma’s underpaid educators. Shawn P. Sheehan, Oklahoma's 2016 Teacher of the Year, posed this question in a recent op-ed in The Oklahoman: “We love our
- [160 Years of Public Pensions in the United States](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-early-history/) - Public pensions are not a recent creation. In fact, the earliest public pension in the United States was established over 150 years ago for police officers in New York City. We covered the history of public pensions in our recent report, Why Pensions Matter. Below we’ve highlighted some major landmarks in the early history of
- [Attention Michigan: Closing a Pension System is Never a Good Idea](https://publicpensions.org/attention-michigan-closing-pension-system-never-good-idea/) - Is anyone else experiencing some serious deja vu? Michigan Senate Majority Leader Arlan Meekhof has been tossing around the idea of closing the Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System (MPSERS) pension plan and moving new hires to a defined contribution 401(k). If this sounds familiar, it’s because Republican legislators attempted this a mere 5 months
- [A Win for Pensions in South Carolina!](https://publicpensions.org/win-pensions-south-carolina/) - Victory in South Carolina! Last week, Gov. Henry McMaster signed a bill increasing contributions to the state pension fund. While this is an important step towards improving the health of the fund, the cause for celebration is the part of the bill that did not make it to Gov. McMaster’s desk: an amendment to close
- [Why Are Some Public Employees Not in Social Security?](https://publicpensions.org/public-employees-not-social-security/) - When most Americans begin to prepare for retirement, they count on Social Security to form the bedrock of their retirement savings. For millions of working families, Social Security is the key to retiring with dignity. However, a significant number of public employees nationwide will not receive Social Security benefits in retirement because they do not
- [Attention North Carolina: Closing a Pension is Never a Good Idea](https://publicpensions.org/attention-north-carolina-closing-pension-never-good-idea/) - We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Closing a pension system is a terrible idea. Shuttering a pension system and shifting new hires to a defined contribution 401(k)-style plan is damaging not only to the thousands of workers whose retirement security is jeopardized but also for taxpayers and the fiscal health of the
- [Closing a Pension Plan Increases Costs for Taxpayers](https://publicpensions.org/closing-pension-plan-increases-costs-taxpayers/) - Michigan lawmakers are at it again. During last year’s lame duck session, legislators in Michigan attempted to force through a bill to close the pension plan for teachers and public school employees - the Michigan Public Schools Employee Retirement System (MPSERS). They ended up dropping the bill due to a strong backlash from working families
- [Defined benefit pensions help ease the transition into retirement](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-ease-transition-retirement/) - It’s well-known that defined benefit pensions provide a secure and dignified retirement to librarians, nurses, correctional officers, and other public employees. They do this by providing a regular, reliable source of income in retirement. However, public pensions serve other functions as well. One of these often-overlooked functions is to ease the transition into retirement for
- [What other countries can teach us about retirement planning](https://publicpensions.org/countries-teach-retirement-planning/) - The United States is facing a retirement security crisis. As the private sector has moved from defined benefit pensions to defined contribution 401(k)s, the retirement security of working families has been devastated. This switch also doesn’t account for the roughly half of workers who lack access to a retirement savings plan through their employer. Social
- [Kansas reaps the whirlwind](https://publicpensions.org/kansas-reaps-whirlwind/) - Kansas is home to tornadoes and the Land of Oz. It is home to more cows than people. It is also the site of a massive, failed experiment in tax policy. When Kansas passed large tax cuts several years ago, Gov. Brownback described it as a “live experiment.” There is now plenty of evidence that
- [President Trump Leads the Attack on Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/trump-attack-retirement-security/) - Today President Trump released his proposed 2018 budget for the federal government. His proposal includes a harsh attack on the retirement security of federal employees. Unfortunately, this proposal follows a pattern of attacks on the retirement security of working families by Trump and Congressional Republicans. Federal employees hired after 1987 participate in the “three-legged stool”
- [Pensions and the Cost of Teacher Turnover in Alaska](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-cost-teacher-turnover-alaska/) - States across the country, from Wisconsin to Oklahoma to Alaska, are experiencing teacher shortages. Fewer people are preparing to become teachers and it is becoming more difficult for states to find qualified individuals to replace teachers who quit or retire. A recent study from the University of Alaska Anchorage calculated just how expensive this teacher
- [Michigan School Employee Pensions Under Siege...Again](https://publicpensions.org/michigan-school-employee-pensions-siege/) - Republican lawmakers in Michigan recently introduced legislation to close the Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System (MPSERS) pension plan. The bills - S.B. 401 and H.B. 4647 - would move all employees hired after September 30 into a defined contribution 401(k). Shuttering teacher pensions has been a top priority of Michigan’s Republican lawmakers for the
- [How Can We Honor Public Employees? By Protecting Their Pensions.](https://publicpensions.org/how-can-we-honor-public-employees-by-protecting-their-pensions/) - When it comes to honoring the hard work of America’s public employees, the entire month of May was a veritable commemoration of their service. From International Firefighters Day to Emergency Medical Services week, May was host to a plethora of celebrations recognizing public servants. While we paused to appreciate the service of teachers, police officers,
- [Oklahoma’s Legislative Session Ends Not With a Bang, But a Whimper](https://publicpensions.org/oklahoma-legislative-session-ends/) - The Oklahoma state legislature adjourned its 2017 legislative session on May 26. In many ways, what was remarkable about the 2017 session was how little got accomplished. For public pensions in Oklahoma, the session was largely a win, except for one bill that will likely increase meddling by politicians. Let’s take a closer look at
- [Public Pensions Benefit Small, Rural Communities in Louisiana](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-benefit-louisiana/) - Public pensions generate significant economic activity in cities and states across the nation. Public workers and their employers contribute to the pension fund and those pension funds earn a meaningful return on their investments. That money goes back into the local communities, where retirees live and shop, through monthly benefit checks to those retirees. Late
- [Kansas Ends Its Disastrous Experiment with Tax Policy](https://publicpensions.org/kansas-ends-disastrous-tax-policy/) - If you felt the ground shaking last week, there’s a reason why: the Kansas state legislature caused a political earthquake by rejecting Gov. Brownback’s disastrous, failed tax policy. In 2012, the Kansas legislature passed Brownback’s extreme right-wing tax plan, something the governor himself described as a “live experiment.” The experiment proved to be a failure
- [Repeal of Dodd-Frank Threatens Americans’ Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/repeal-dodd-frank-retirement-security-risk/) - Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to repeal stringent Wall Street regulations included in the 2010 Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Immediately after his election in November of last year, President Trump pledged to repeal Dodd-Frank in its entirety. It appears as though the President and Congress have forgotten the
- [States Will Be Hit Hard by Cuts to Federal Employee Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/federal-employee-pensions-cuts/) - In his 2018 budget proposal unveiled last month, President Donald Trump proposed attacks on the pensions of federal employees. We wrote about how harmful these cuts would be to the retirement security of federal employees. However, these proposed cuts would also have a detrimental effect in the states, where the majority of federal employees work.
- [Josh McGee: Playing Both Sides in Houston](https://publicpensions.org/josh-mcgee-playing-sides-houston/) - During its legislative session this year, the Texas Senate confirmed Josh McGee as the Chairman of the Texas Pension Review Board. This should concern everyone who cares about the retirement security of public employees in Texas because McGee is also an employee of the Laura and John Arnold Foundation, an organization that has spent millions
- [Retirement Security is Particularly Challenging for Latino Workers](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-security-latino-workers/) - Many Americans struggle to save for retirement. As we’ve discussed before, roughly half of working Americans do not have access to a retirement savings plan through their employer. Even for those who do have access, many are contributing too little to an inadequate 401(k) plan. The number of working Americans with access to a traditional
- [The Shift to 401(k)s Has Decimated Retirement Savings](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-savings-decimated/) - Long time readers of Defined Benefit know that 401(k)-style defined contribution plans have largely failed working families. Defined contribution plans are a poor substitute for defined benefit pension plans and as the private sector has shifted from pensions to 401(k)s, working families have fallen behind. More and more research is emerging that demonstrates the inadequacy
- [Raising the Cap on 401(k)s Won’t Solve Retirement Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/raising-cap-401ks-wont-solve-retirement-crisis/) - As we discussed last week, the evidence continues to grow that 401(k)s and other defined contribution plans do not provide a secure retirement for working families. Despite this mounting evidence, some have pushed for more contributions to 401(k)-style plans, as if throwing more money at the problem will make it go away. This idea, though,
- [Everyone Suffers When Pensions Are Cut](https://publicpensions.org/everyone-suffers-pensions-cut/) - When pension benefits are cut, public employees and retirees are hurt. In the past decade, every state has made changes to its public pension systems, some more significant than others. Teachers, firefighters, and other public employees have been asked to pay more (which results in a loss of take-home pay), work longer, and receive smaller
- [The "Pension Crisis" is a Myth, Part One](https://publicpensions.org/pension-crisis-myth-part-one/) - Since the Great Recession in 2008, warnings of an impending pension crisis have been splashed across the business pages of newspapers across the country. Despite these boisterous decrees, America's public pension funds are stable. We explore the roots behind the false pension crisis narrative and examine the facts. Public pension plans have existed for more
- [Michigan Weakens the Retirement Security of Its Public School Employees](https://publicpensions.org/michigan-weakens-retirement-security-public-school-employees/) - Yesterday Michigan Governor Rick Snyder signed legislation- SB 401- that weakens the retirement security of the state’s public school employees. This newly-signed legislation continues a long running saga of attacks on the pension benefits of Michigan’s public employees. While SB 401 does not completely eliminate the defined benefit pensions of Michigan’s public school employees, it
- [The "Pension Crisis" is a Myth, Part Two](https://publicpensions.org/pension-crisis-myth-part-two/) - Since the Great Recession in 2008, warnings of an impending pension crisis have been splashed across the business pages of newspapers across the country. Despite these boisterous decrees, America's public pension funds are stable. We explore the roots behind the false pension crisis narrative and examine the facts. Last week we wrote about how the
- [The Assault on the Retirement Security of Federal Employees Continues](https://publicpensions.org/assault-federal-employee-retirement-security/) - As we’ve discussed before, President Trump proposed devastating cuts to the retirement benefits of federal employees in his 2018 budget request. This far-reaching and unnecessary attack would undermine the retirement security of current and future federal employees. While Trump sticks by his harsh proposal, Republican members of Congress have taken positions on both sides of
- [Public Pensions Are Under Attack in Iowa](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-iowa/) - Iowa is fortunate to have a strong public pension system. The Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS) provides pensions to teachers, firefighters, and other public employees throughout the Hawkeye State. In fact, one in ten Iowans is a member of IPERS. IPERS is funded at 84 percent, which is a healthy funding level. Despite all
- [Public universities offer superior retirement for professors](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-professors/) - University professors are typically regarded as having one of the most desirable jobs in the country. Pay is usually high, benefits are good, and if they have tenure, then professors have excellent job security. Despite these benefits, professors still rely on employer-provided retirement plans to provide financial security in their golden years. A report from
- [The "Pension Crisis" is a Myth, Part Three](https://publicpensions.org/pension-crisis-myth-part-three/) - Since the Great Recession in 2008, warnings of an impending pension crisis have been splashed across the business pages of newspapers across the country. Despite these boisterous decrees, America’s public pension funds are stable. We explore the roots behind the false pension crisis narrative and examine the facts. In our first two posts in this
- [Pew Misleads States By Pushing Cash Balance Plans](https://publicpensions.org/pew-misleads-states-cash-balance-plans/) - The Pew Charitable Trusts are a widely respected source of information on a great number of subjects. Pew provides objective, non-partisan analysis on issues ranging from religion & public life to the health of the oceans. Unfortunately, one division of Pew - the Public Sector Retirement Systems project - has been hijacked by anti-pension ideologues.
- [Defined Benefit vs Defined Contribution: The Basics](https://publicpensions.org/defined-benefit-vs-defined-contribution-the-basics-2/) - Many Americans believe that a retirement security crisis is looming. According to a recent survey, 88 percent of Americans agree that the nation faces a retirement crisis. Many Americans also believe that one of the benefits of a lifetime of hard work should be a secure retirement. The question for both employers and employees then
- [Public Pensions FAQ](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-faq/) - In the fight to protect pensions, education is key. We've answered some of the most commonly asked questions about public pensions. For more information on all things pension, check out our Glossary of Common Pension Terms. What is a pension? A pension is the strongest and most stable retirement option. Workers earn their pension by contributing
- [The Fundamentals of Retirement Planning](https://publicpensions.org/the-fundamentals-of-retirement-planning/) - Nearly two-thirds of Americans can’t pass a rudimentary financial literacy test. This illiteracy extends to retirement: when quizzed on their retirement income knowledge, 80% of Americans ages 60-75 failed. Fortunately, in our increasingly digital age, the information needed to educate oneself is readily available. When it comes to learning about retirement planning, we’ve made it
- [Public Pensions Remain the Best Option for Kentucky](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-best-option-kentucky/) - Today the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy (KCEP) and the Keystone Research Center (KRC) released a new report on public pensions in Kentucky. The report, titled “Switch to 401k-Type Plan for Kentucky Public Employees Will Cause More Harm,” finds that changes to the public pension systems proposed by Gov. Matt Bevin would harm current public
- [The "Pension Crisis" is a Myth, Part Four](https://publicpensions.org/pension-crisis-myth-part-four/) - Since the Great Recession in 2008, warnings of an impending pension crisis have been splashed across the business pages of newspapers across the country. Despite these boisterous decrees, America’s public pension funds are stable. We explore the roots behind the false pension crisis narrative and examine the facts. Today we continue our series exposing the
- [Attention Kentucky: Closing a Pension is Never a Good Idea](https://publicpensions.org/attention-kentucky-closing-pension-never-good-idea/) - Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it - and it’s prime time for Kentucky lawmakers to learn a history lesson. Kentucky’s public pension funds face very real challenges, caused by decades of underfunding on behalf of the state. While public employees contributed with every paycheck, the state continuously kicked the
- [The Trump Administration Continues to Weaken Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/trump-administration-weaken-retirement-security/) - As we’ve documented before, the Trump administration has taken multiple actions that will weaken the retirement security of working families. From attacking the pensions of federal employees to hindering the work of states to enact Secure Choice savings programs, the administration has demonstrated that it cares more about the interests of Wall Street than of
- [There’s no question: workers want pensions](https://publicpensions.org/theres-no-question-workers-want-pensions/) - Traditional defined benefit pensions remain the most common retirement plan for public sector employees. 84 percent of state and local government employees have access to a pension. Increasingly, however, anti-pension ideologues say public employees should be given a choice between pensions and 401(k)-style defined contribution plans. Just this year, Indiana, Michigan, and Pennsylvania made changes
- [A Workingmen's Holiday](https://publicpensions.org/a-workingmens-holiday-labor-day/) - Labor Day: the unofficial end of summer. A last hurrah of vacations, barbecues, and pools close for the season. But the holiday is more than just a long weekend - it’s a day to commemorate the immense contributions of America’s working women and men. As the Industrial Revolution modernized the American workforce in the 19th
- [Spotlight on Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin](https://publicpensions.org/spotlight-kentucky-governor-matt-bevin/) - Public pensions are the hot topic of conversation in Kentucky these days. Governor Matt Bevin has pledged to call a special legislative session this fall, most likely in October, to address the challenges facing the state’s public pension systems. Bevin has repeatedly stated his desire to force new public employees into risky and unreliable 401(k)-style
- [This Missouri City Just Switched to a Pension](https://publicpensions.org/missouri-city-just-switched-pension/) - The narrative promoted by anti-pension ideologues is that defined benefit pensions are a thing of the past. These pension critics falsely claim that cities and states are abandoning pensions. One city in Missouri is proving them wrong. The city of Webster Groves switched from a defined contribution 401(k) plan to a defined benefit pension through
- [An Update on Secure Choice Retirement Savings Plans](https://publicpensions.org/secure-choice-retirement-savings-plans/) - We first discussed Secure Choice plans back in March of this year. At the time, Congress was moving forward with repealing Obama-era regulations that would have made it easier for states to establish these plans. Unfortunately, Congress passed and President Trump signed legislation to repeal those regulations. However, that did not end Secure Choice programs-
- [What is the New Hampshire Decennial Retirement Commission?](https://publicpensions.org/new-hampshire-decennial-retirement-commission/) - This autumn the New Hampshire Decennial Retirement Commission is meeting to consider the future of the New Hampshire Retirement System (NHRS), the state’s public pension plan. The commission is supposed to issue a report by November 1 detailing their recommendations, although most expect the report will be delayed. So what exactly is the Decennial Retirement
- [San Jose Offers a Lesson about Pensions for Kentucky](https://publicpensions.org/san-jose-lesson-pensions-kentucky/) - There are plenty of differences and a few thousand miles between Frankfort, KY, and Silicon Valley. Despite these differences, San Jose, CA, offers lessons for Kentucky legislators about the mistakes made by the anti-pension activists who tried to gut pensions in Silicon Valley. We’ve written before about San Jose and the misguided attempt by former
- [Kentucky Spends More on Corporate Giveaways Than on Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-corporate-giveaways-public-pensions/) - Kentucky gives away millions of dollars in corporate subsidies and tax loopholes, an amount that far exceeds the annual cost of funding public pensions. That is the conclusion of a new report released yesterday by Good Jobs First, a national nonpartisan organization that tracks economic development programs. Earlier this year, when Gov. Matt Bevin began
- [Retirement Savings Struggles for Low-Income Workers](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-savings-struggles-low-income-workers/) - It’s well-known that low-income working Americans struggle to save for retirement and have less retirement income than middle-class and wealthy Americans. It shouldn’t be this difficult. The main goal in retirement planning is to achieve what the experts call an income replacement rate. For example, the goal of a worker should be to save enough
- [Women and Retirement: Some Things to Consider](https://publicpensions.org/women-retirement-things-consider/) - Women typically enter their golden years with less retirement income than men. According to a report last year from the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS), women are 80 percent more likely than men to be impoverished at age 65 and older. Women face unique challenges in saving for retirement, but much of the guidance
- [Pensions Keep Teachers in the Classroom](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-keep-teachers-classroom/) - The overwhelming majority of public school teachers in the United States participate in traditional defined benefit pension plans. This year, however, Michigan and Pennsylvania both made significant and harmful changes to their pension plans for teachers and other public school employees. A recent report finds that pensions keep experienced, effective teachers in the classroom and
- [Corporate Giveaways Exceed Public Pension Costs](https://publicpensions.org/corporate-giveaways-exceed-public-pension-costs/) - In many states, the amount given away in subsidies and tax breaks to big corporations exceeds the amount needed to fund public pensions each year. That is the conclusion of a new report from Good Jobs First, a nonpartisan economic development watchdog group. When states make harmful cuts to public pensions, legislators often say the
- [Maine Could Vote to Improve Pension Funding](https://publicpensions.org/maine-vote-improve-pension-funding/) - Next month Maine will vote on a state question that would amend the state constitution to improve public pension funding. State Question 4 would increase the amortization period for the pension plan to recover investment losses from 10 years to 20 years. This change would make pension contributions more consistent over time, while still allowing
- [The "Pension Crisis" is a Myth, Part Five](https://publicpensions.org/pension-crisis-myth-part-five/) - Since the Great Recession in 2008, warnings of an impending pension crisis have been splashed across the business pages of newspapers across the country. Despite these boisterous decrees, America’s public pension funds are stable. We explore the roots behind the false pension crisis narrative and examine the facts. When promoters of the pension crisis myth
- [The State of Retirement Security in the United States](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-security-united-states/) - This week is National Retirement Security Week. Every year this week is used by the financial industry to promote retirement savings through their products and services. While we applaud the goal of promoting adequate retirement savings for all Americans, the reality is that many working families are not saving at all and are woefully unprepared
- [How the Government Contributes to the Retirement Security Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/government-contributes-retirement-security-crisis/) - In Monday’s blog post we documented the sad state of retirement security in the United States today. Many working families have little or no savings and will face a lower standard of living in retirement. Unfortunately, the government, at both the state and federal levels, has done little to help alleviate the retirement security crisis
- [Pensions Provide Retirement Security to Working Families](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-provide-retirement-security-2/) - This week we’ve been documenting the dismal state of retirement security in the United States and the ways in which governments at both the state and federal levels contribute to the retirement security crisis. As National Retirement Security Week, or, as we’re calling it, National Retirement (In)Security Week, comes to a close, we want to
- [Charter School Teachers Deserve Retirement Security Too](https://publicpensions.org/charter-school-teachers-retirement-security/) - Today the National Public Pension Coalition released a new report titled A School’s Choice: Retirement Security for Charter School Teachers. The report focuses on states where public charter schools have the option of participating in a public pension plan or offering their teachers an alternative retirement plan. In all states reviewed for the report, the
- [How the Republican Tax Plan Would Hurt Retirement Savings](https://publicpensions.org/republican-tax-plan-hurt-retirement-savings/) - This week there has been a lot of discussion about the forthcoming Republican tax reform plan. In particular, there has been significant coverage of President Trump’s tweet about 401(k)s and protecting their current tax status. The president’s tweet has prompted a much needed discussion about 401(k)s and how much they help the middle class save
- [Haunted House of Pension Horrors: 2017 Edition](https://publicpensions.org/haunted-house-pension-horrors-2017/) - Beware, friends, of the frights that lay ahead: it’s once again time to enter the Haunted House of Pension Horrors. In our annual tradition, we will take you through the spooky and blood-chilling attacks on the retirement security of working families. Just like Freddy and Jason, anti-pension ideologues want to slash pension benefits for teachers,
- [Teachers Are Best Served by Traditional Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/teachers-best-served-pensions/) - The first public pension plan for teachers was established in Manhattan in 1894. In the 1910s, six states established teacher pension plans. More states followed suit and now the overwhelming majority of public school teachers in the United States participate in traditional defined benefit pension plans. These pensions have successfully provided a secure and reliable
- [Votes for Pensions: Election Day 2017](https://publicpensions.org/votes-pensions-election-day-2017/) - Today is Election Day in cities and states across the United States. While this is considered an off-off-year election, there are still important votes happening today, some of which will have a considerable impact on public pensions. Here’s a quick overview of elections taking place today and their potential effect on retirement security for public
- [The "Pension Crisis" is a Myth, Part Six](https://publicpensions.org/pension-crisis-myth-part-six/) - Since the Great Recession in 2008, warnings of an impending pension crisis have been splashed across the business pages of newspapers across the country. Despite these boisterous decrees, America’s public pension funds are stable. We explore the roots behind the false pension crisis narrative and examine the facts. As we’ve recounted throughout this series, anti-pension
- [Josh McGee: Trying to Discredit Defined Benefit Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/josh-mcgee-attack-defined-benefit-pensions/) - During its legislative session this year, the Texas Senate confirmed Josh McGee as the Chairman of the Texas Pension Review Board. This should concern everyone who cares about the retirement security of public employees in Texas because McGee is also an employee of the Laura and John Arnold Foundation, an organization that has spent millions
- [Strong Investment Returns Prove Pension Plans Work](https://publicpensions.org/strong-investment-returns-pension-plans/) - Last month the Dow Jones Industrial Average surpassed 23,000 for the first time ever and closed at a record high. In the ninth year of an economic expansion following the devastating effects of the Great Recession, the financial markets have been strong and consistently breaking new records. Public pension funds have benefitted from this rebound
- [Thankful for Pensions and Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/thankful-pensions-retirement-security/) - On Thursday, Americans will gather with friends and family to celebrate Thanksgiving. It is the time of year to reflect on what we are thankful for and to give thanks to those who make our communities stronger. We at NPPC are thankful for the teachers, firefighters, nurses, librarians, and so many more public employees who
- [Kentucky and Public Pensions: An Update](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-public-pensions-update/) - As we’ve discussed before, public pensions in Kentucky have been the subject of much debate this year. Kentucky has some of the most poorly funded pension systems in the country, the result of years of underfunding by the state government. Earlier this year, Gov. Matt Bevin said he planned to call a special legislative session
- [Tax Reform & Public Pensions: Minor Provision Causes Major Trouble](https://publicpensions.org/tax-reform-public-pensions-update/) - This week the U.S. Senate is busy debating its tax reform plan. Republican leaders in the Senate plan to hold a vote on Thursday and hope to pass their tax reform bill. They would then have a conference committee with the U.S. House to work out the differences between the two chambers’ tax reform proposals.
- [Municipal Pensions Under Attack in Michigan](https://publicpensions.org/municipal-pensions-attack-michigan/) - Last week, companion bills were introduced in the Michigan House and Senate that would attack pensions and retiree healthcare for current and retired local government employees. Earlier this year, Michigan’s governor convened a task force on Responsible Retirement Reform for Local Government. That task force issued a unanimous recommendation that called for increased transparency and
- [Public Pensions Can Meet Their Obligations](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-can-meet-obligations/) - Full funding of public pensions is one of the most hotly debated subjects in state legislatures across the nation. It’s generally accepted that public pensions should aim to be 100 percent funded. However, does full funding actually relate to the ability of a pension plan to pay benefits each year? A new report from NCPERS
- [Working People Need Access to Guaranteed Income in Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/working-people-guaranteed-income-retirement/) - We’ve written a lot on this blog about how 401(k)s and other defined contribution plans fail to provide adequate retirement savings for most working people. There is now plenty of evidence that most workers will not save anywhere close to the recommended amount needed to retire securely. Even if workers do manage to save a
- [Protecting Pensions in 2017: Ending the Year With Some Wins](https://publicpensions.org/protecting-pensions-2017-ending-year-wins/) - It seems like protecting pensions is a never-ending battle these days. The year 2017 certainly saw its share of attacks on the retirement security of teachers, firefighters, nurses, and other public employees. Before we look ahead to next year, it’s time to consider the outcome of some fights that occurred this year. Kentucky: For most
- [National Public Pension Coalition: Naughty and Nice List 2017](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-naughty-nice-list-2017/) - It’s the holiday season. While the merry bells keep ringing, Santa Claus is coming back with a big fat pack upon his back. And you can be sure that he’s making a list and checking it twice and he’s going to find out who’s naughty or nice. Just like that jolly old man who lives
- [Our New Year’s Resolution: Protect Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/new-years-resolution-protect-pensions/) - In a few short days, many Americans will begin writing their New Year’s resolutions. Some will try to lose weight, others will try to exercise more, and many others will follow resolutions of their own. We at the National Public Pension Coalition have made our own resolution for 2018: continue the fight to protect pensions.
- [An Ominous Future: a United States Without Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/united-states-without-pensions/) - Two days before Christmas, the Washington Post published a powerful article warning of a frightening future: a United States without pensions. The Post story highlights the plight of former employees of a McDonnell Douglas plant in Tulsa, OK. These employees lost their full pension benefits through a plant closure—a decision illegally made by the company
- [John Arnold Still Attacking Public Pensions in 2018](https://publicpensions.org/john-arnold-attacking-public-pensions-2018/) - Much has been written in recent years about the influence of so-called “dark money” in American politics. Whether it is the Koch Brothers and their extensive network or mysterious Super-PACs that seem to pop up each election cycle, the influence of dark money is widespread. One dark money influencer with less national prominence is John
- [Changing retirement: the 40th anniversary of the 401(k)](https://publicpensions.org/changing-retirement-anniversary-401k/) - It’s been 40 years since Congress passed the Revenue Act of 1978. Why is this obscure piece of legislation significant? Because the Revenue Act created Section 401(k) of the federal tax code. Over the past 40 years, the 401(k) provision has helped to transform the way working Americans save for retirement. Unfortunately, this transformation may
- [So long, Chris Christie](https://publicpensions.org/chris-christie-departure/) - Today, Phil Murphy will be inaugurated as the new governor of New Jersey. That also means that Chris Christie’s two terms as governor are ending. Christie leaves office as the most unpopular governor in the history of New Jersey. Given his track record just on public pensions, it is not surprising that Christie is so
- [Older Workers Need Secure Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/older-workers-need-secure-pensions/) - Many times on this blog we’ve discussed the shift from defined benefit pensions to 401(k)-style defined contribution plans. While this transition has been most dramatic in the private sector, it is also occurring in the public sector. We’ve detailed how this shift puts more risk on working families and, therefore, reduces their retirement security. The
- [What is a Cost of Living Adjustment?](https://publicpensions.org/cost-living-adjustment/) - A Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) is an occasional increase in the amount of a retiree’s or beneficiary’s pension payment in order to account for inflation. COLAs have been much discussed recently, in part because it has been so long since many retirees have received one. This post will explain what a COLA is, why
- [The "Pension Crisis" is a Myth, Part Seven](https://publicpensions.org/pension-crisis-myth-part-seven/) - Since the Great Recession in 2008, warnings of an impending pension crisis have been splashed across the business pages of newspapers across the country. Despite these boisterous decrees, America’s public pension funds are stable. We explore the roots behind the false pension crisis narrative and examine the facts. Recently, Amazon announced the list of twenty
- [Watch What President Trump Says About Federal Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/president-trump-federal-pensions/) - Tonight, President Trump will deliver his first State of the Union address to Congress. It is unlikely that he will mention pensions for federal employees in his speech, but in the weeks ahead, the president will propose his budget for the federal government for the upcoming year. If last year is any indication, he may
- [Public Pensions Strengthened Their Funding in 2017](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-strengthened-funding/) - Public pension plans continued to improve and strengthen their funded status last year. That is the takeaway from a new report by the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS). With many plans earning double-digit investment returns, pension plans took the opportunity to fortify their funded position for the long term. The annual survey
- [Public Pensions in Kentucky Still Need Full Funding](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-kentucky-full-funding/) - By now, the story of public pensions in Kentucky has become a familiar one: after years of underfunding by the state government, the public pension plans in the Bluegrass State are among the most poorly funded in the nation. Last year, Gov. Matt Bevin pledged to call a special session to address two topics: tax
- [Pension cuts hurt employee recruitment and retention](https://publicpensions.org/pension-cuts-hurt-employee-recruitment-retention/) - In 2012, Palm Beach, Florida decided to close all of its public pension plans and move current and future employees to a hybrid defined benefit-defined contribution plan. This move gutted retirement security for public employees. In response, Palm Beach experienced an exodus of police officers and firefighters over the next four years. The loss of
- [The lack of pension plans diminishes public service in Alaska](https://publicpensions.org/lack-pension-plans-alaska/) - On Tuesday, we wrote about a new case study examining the experiences of Palm Beach, FL after the town closed its defined benefit pension plan for police officers, firefighters, and other municipal employees. Palm Beach is certainly not the only place to face challenges with recruitment and retention after closing a pension plan. The state
- [Congress Recognizes that Working Families Need Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/congress-working-families-retirement-security/) - We’ve written about the growing retirement security crisis many times. We’re not the only ones to warn about it either. Back in October, the Government Accountability Office issued a significant report on the lack of retirement security for many working families. Last week, the Democratic members of the congressional Joint Economic Committee (JEC) issued a
- [Exposing John Arnold’s Web of Connections](https://publicpensions.org/exposing-john-arnold-web-connections/) - John Arnold is the chief funder of anti-pension activity across the nation. A former Enron energy trader and Wall Street hedge fund manager, Arnold retired in his thirties and has devoted a significant portion of his fortune to attacking public workers’ pensions. So far he has spent more than $50 million on his anti-pension crusade.
- [There is finally a pension bill in Kentucky and it’s bad](https://publicpensions.org/finally-pension-bill-kentucky-bad/) - For months now, public employees and retirees in Kentucky have awaited the introduction of a pension bill. Republican legislators have been promising that the introduction of a pension bill is just days away, but they never ended up releasing anything- until now. Last week, State Senator Bowen introduced Senate Bill 1, which makes substantial changes
- [Millennials Already Falling Behind in Retirement Savings](https://publicpensions.org/millennials-retirement-savings/) - We’ve spent a lot of time on this blog discussing the plight of working families struggling to save for retirement. It’s a challenge for many Americans to save for retirement with the decline of pensions in the private sector and the risky and unreliable nature of 401(k) plans. In previous posts, we’ve often focused on
- [Many Americans plan to work in retirement](https://publicpensions.org/many-americans-plan-work-retirement/) - Once there was a time in America when retirement meant enjoying your golden years. It could be taking a long-awaited trip, volunteering in your community, or spending time with the grandkids. Retirement, however, did not mean continuing to work. Unfortunately, the reality in America today is that many people do work or plan to work
- [Middle-Class Families Could Be Retiring Into Poverty](https://publicpensions.org/middle-class-families-retiring-poverty/) - In a blog post last week, we discussed the fact that many Americans plan to work in retirement just to make ends meet. As we’ve mentioned before, though, many people won’t be able to continue working in retirement and may have to retire earlier than planned. A new report from the Schwartz Center for Economic
- [The fight to protect pensions in Kentucky: an update](https://publicpensions.org/fight-protect-pensions-kentucky-update/) - Last month, Kentucky State Senator Joe Bowen introduced Senate Bill 1, legislation that would make harsh, unnecessary changes to Kentucky’s public pension plans. SB1 was the long-awaited pension bill that had been promised for months by Republican legislative leaders in the commonwealth. The bill was swiftly condemned by groups representing public employees and retirees in
- [The Fight to Protect Pensions in Colorado](https://publicpensions.org/fight-protect-pensions-colorado/) - As we’ve discussed plenty of times, politicians will often attack public pensions for their own political gain. There is a perfect example of this in Colorado, where the state treasurer, Walker Stapleton, is using attacks on public pensions to fuel his campaign for governor this year. Stapleton has used his position to create the perception
- [Public Pensions Help Recruit New Teachers](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-help-recruit-new-teachers/) - Following the successful strike of teachers in West Virginia for higher pay, there has been increased focus on the longstanding issue of low pay and benefits for public school teachers. This is a critical issue that we’ve discussed before. One overlooked issue, however, is the number of people preparing to be teachers, or lack thereof.
- [Who is the Retirement Security Initiative?](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-security-initiative/) - Since beginning his crusade against public pensions, John Arnold has been relentless in his attacks on retirement security for working families. Often, he pays others to do his dirty work for him. For example, he funds biased research from the Pew Research Center. He has also funded failed ballot measures to gut public pensions. Recently,
- [A stinking piece of legislation guts pensions in Kentucky](https://publicpensions.org/stinking-piece-legislation-guts-pensions-kentucky/) - The fight to protect pensions in Kentucky has been long and drawn-out. Despite months of promises, Governor Bevin never called a special legislative session last year to address tax reform and public pensions. Earlier this year, members of the Kentucky State Senate introduced a pension bill, Senate Bill 1, that, despite passing out of committee,
- [Kentucky Must Fix Its Porous Tax Code](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-must-fix-porous-tax-code/) - Today we are resharing a post from September 2017 about a report from Good Jobs First, a national nonpartisan organization that tracks economic development programs. Their report found that Kentucky gives away far more each year through corporate subsidies and tax loopholes than it spends to fund public pensions. In recent weeks, the state legislature
- [Tax Day and Public Pensions: Your Questions Answered](https://publicpensions.org/tax-day-public-pensions/) - Today is Tax Day. We thought this would be a good time to re-post a blog post from two years ago that answered the question: how many tax dollars go to public pensions? Taxpayer contributions to public pensions represent a smaller percentage of pension plan revenues than many people believe. Read on to learn more!
- [Pension cuts harm public employee recruitment](https://publicpensions.org/pension-cuts-harm-public-employee-recruitment/) - The financial crisis and Great Recession had a devastating effect on public pension plans. On average, public pension plans lost about a quarter of the value of their assets due to the crisis. In the years since the recession, almost every state has made some kind of change to its public pension plans. Recently, there
- [Why Workers Retire When They Do](https://publicpensions.org/why-workers-retire-when-they-do/) - Retirement has long been a part of the American dream. Throughout the twentieth century, the belief was that after a lifetime of hard work, workers could retire and enjoy their golden years. When defined benefit pensions were still common in the private sector, retirement was an easier goal to achieve. In recent years, however, the
- [Puerto Rico's Pensions Are Still Threatened](https://publicpensions.org/puerto-ricos-pensions-still-threatened/) - Today, thousands of workers and retirees rallied in Puerto Rico to protest ongoing austerity measures, including proposed cuts to public pensions. Puerto Rico's public pensions have been threatened for years by the long-lasting debt crisis and other calamities to befall the island. We wrote about public pensions in Puerto Rico two years ago. We are
- [Pew's Public Sector Retirement Systems Project Cannot Be Trusted](https://publicpensions.org/pew-research-center-not-trusted/) - Pew Charitable Trusts is a respected institution studying many different aspects of American life. Legislators, civic leaders, and everyday Americans rely on Pew for objective, high-quality data and analysis on various issues. So why is one small division of Pew actively campaigning to eliminate defined benefit pensions for public employees? Because they have received millions
- [Plan Choice Undermines Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/plan-choice-undermines-retirement-security/) - The attacks on public pension plans are constantly changing. Pension critics claim public employees need to be given a choice between defined benefit pension plans and 401(k)-style defined contribution plans. This is an unnecessary and risky choice. Public employees, like all Americans, want a secure and reliable way to save for retirement. Pensions provide that
- [What are the legal protections for public pensions?](https://publicpensions.org/legal-protections-public-pensions/) - Public pension plans are authorized by the municipal or state government that offers the plan to its public employees. This means there is a wide range of variation about the specifics of public pensions from state to state. With thousands of state and local public plans in the United States, the question of how public
- [Colorado Makes Changes to Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/colorado-makes-changes-public-pensions/) - Teachers, firefighters, and other public employees in Colorado are members of PERA, the Public Employees Retirement Association. This public pension plan covers most public employees in the state. It is also a Social Security substitute: most members of PERA do not participate in Social Security. PERA has been in the news a lot ever since
- [What is the California Rule and why does it matter?](https://publicpensions.org/california-rule-matter/) - Last week we wrote about the various forms of legal protections that exist for public pensions in the United States. We noted that a majority of states (34) follow a contract rights approach to public pension benefits. One of the most important states to adopt this approach is California. Why? Because the so-called “California Rule”
- [Attacks on Pensions Promote Retirement Inequality](https://publicpensions.org/attack-pensions-retirement-inequality/) - Defined benefit pensions are the most secure form of retirement savings. This has been true for decades and is why cities and states have offered pensions to their public employees for more than a hundred years. Pensions also used to be common in the private sector, but they have experienced a rapid decline in recent
- [Public Pensions Generate Tax Revenue for States](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-generate-tax-revenue/) - Despite what you may think, public pension plans generated more than $277 billion in state and local tax revenues in 2016. That is the groundbreaking finding of a new report from the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS). Nationwide, public pension plans are net revenue generators: they create $137 billion in revenue more
- [Don’t Trust the Reason Foundation on Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/reason-foundation-public-pensions/) - Despite its name, the Reason Foundation cannot be trusted to provide accurate information regarding public pensions. This so-called “think tank” promotes a radical anti-government agenda that is openly hostile to public employees and their retirement security. They have also accepted millions of dollars in funding from John Arnold to promote his anti-pension agenda. Public employees,
- [What does the increasing gap in retirement ages mean for pensions?](https://publicpensions.org/increasing-gap-retirement-age-pensions/) - Retirement inequality is increasing in the United States and the age of retirement is one dimension of that inequality. While the overall average retirement age for Americans is increasing, that increase is not even across socio-economic status. Less educated workers tend to retire earlier than more highly educated workers. This is due to a variety
- [The "Pension Crisis" is a Myth, Part Eight](https://publicpensions.org/pension-crisis-myth-part-eight/) - Since the Great Recession in 2008, warnings of an impending pension crisis have been splashed across the business pages of newspapers across the country. Despite these boisterous decrees, America’s public pension funds are stable. We explore the roots behind the false pension crisis narrative and examine the facts. Defined benefit pensions provide the most secure
- [The Reason Foundation Has a Pension Reform Handbook](https://publicpensions.org/reason-foundation-pension-reform-handbook/) - The Reason Foundation is a prominent, national libertarian advocacy organization. Their advocacy covers a wide range of public policy issues, but one area where they are particularly focused is public pensions. For their work campaigning against public pensions, they have received millions of dollars from John Arnold. In fact, Arnold just recently granted them another
- [Keeping Retirement Affordable in New Hampshire and Oklahoma](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-affordable-new-hampshire-oklahoma/) - Earlier this year, we wrote about Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). To recap, a COLA is an adjustment in the amount of a pension benefit to account for inflation. Since the price of almost everything is constantly going up due to inflation, pension benefits lose value over time if they are not adjusted for the
- [The Domino Effect of Attacks on Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/domino-effect-attacks-pensions/) - Earlier this year, we exposed John Arnold’s “web of connections.” This is the wide variety of groups he funds to attack public pensions. Many of these groups are connected to each other and many of them cite each other’s work to justify their attacks on pensions. Today we want to dig a little bit deeper
- [Victory in the Courts in Kentucky!](https://publicpensions.org/victory-courts-kentucky/) - In late June, a circuit court judge in Kentucky ruled that Senate Bill 151, the stinking, pension-gutting law, is unconstitutional. The extremely rushed process by which the state legislature passed the bill clearly violated state law and rendered the entire bill unconstitutional. While Governor Bevin is expected to appeal the ruling to the Kentucky Supreme
- [What is PEPTA and how would it impact public pensions?](https://publicpensions.org/pepta-impact-public-pensions/) - In June, Congressman Devin Nunes (R-CA) reintroduced the Public Employee Pension Transparency Act (PEPTA). Rep. Nunes has introduced this legislation for the past four Congresses. PEPTA would require state and local public pension plans to disclose their unfunded liabilities to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, but it would require them to calculate their liabilities
- [The Social Security Trustees Report: What It Means for Your Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/social-security-trustees-report/) - Last month the Board of Trustees for Social Security released their annual report on the program’s finances. Much of the information was the same as in previous years: the Social Security trust fund is projected to be exhausted in 2034. This does not mean that Social Security will be bankrupt. It simply means that the
- [How does TABOR harm public pensions?](https://publicpensions.org/tabor-harm-public-pensions/) - Public pensions depend on full funding in order to succeed. More than anything else, public pension plans need to receive their full contributions each and every year. Public employees contribute to their pensions with every paycheck and they never miss a payment. State and local governments, on the other hand, do sometimes skip, defer, or
- [Minnesota Politicians Vote to Protect Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/minnesota-politicians-protect-pensions/) - We frequently write on this blog about states where politicians are attacking public pensions. For much of the past decade, public pensions have been criticized by anti-pension ideologues and opportunistic politicians have sought to undermine them. Today we want to tell a different story. At the end of its legislative session this year, Minnesota showed
- [The Wrong Way to Preserve Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/wrong-way-preserve-public-pensions/) - Last week we wrote about Minnesota and the collaborative process that led to the unanimous passage of pension legislation that will shore up the pension systems there. Minnesota showed the right way to do things: bring everyone to the table and negotiate in good faith. Other states have not followed this same path when dealing
- [The "Pension Crisis" is a Myth, Part Nine](https://publicpensions.org/pension-crisis-myth-part-nine/) - Since the Great Recession in 2008, warnings of an impending pension crisis have been splashed across the business pages of newspapers across the country. Despite these boisterous decrees, America’s public pension funds are stable. We explore the roots behind the false pension crisis narrative and examine the facts. Credit ratings agencies are powerful players in
- [State-Specific Resources to Protect Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/state-resources-protect-pensions/) - The fight to protect pensions is a national one, but the battles are fought state by state. NPPC works with state partners across the country to protect pensions from attacks by John Arnold, Pew, and their allies. Today we want to highlight some of the state-specific resources created by NPPC and its national partners that
- [Pensions Help Black Women Achieve a Secure Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-black-women-secure-retirement/) - August 7, 2018 is Black Women’s Equal Pay Day. This is the day in the year when black women finally catch up and earn as much as white men earned in the previous year. Since black women only earn 63 cents on the dollar that a white man earns, it takes them an additional seven
- [Retirement Savings Obstacles for Millennial Black Women](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-savings-obstacles-millennial-black-women/) - Last week we wrote about the challenges facing black women in saving for retirement, but how many black women benefit from public pensions and the security they provide. Retirement insecurity is a problem for black women of all ages, but it is particularly acute for millennial black women. Millennials as a generation are facing obstacles
- [How Women Miss Out on Retirement Savings](https://publicpensions.org/women-miss-retirement-savings/) - Women are more likely than men to be in poverty during retirement. There are multiple causes for this. Women live longer than men, so they simply have more years of retirement to finance. Also, women typically have less in retirement savings than men due to obstacles faced during their working years. These obstacles include lower
- [Kentucky’s Cash Balance Plan Fails Teachers](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-cash-balance-plan-fails-teachers/) - We’ve written many times about the rushed and potentially unconstitutional process Kentucky legislators used to pass SB 151, the stinking anti-pension bill. While the battle is still playing out in the courts over whether the bill was passed constitutionally, we thought we’d examine why the changes contained in the bill are bad themselves. Specifically, SB
- [More Americans Are Going Bankrupt in Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/americans-going-bankrupt-retirement/) - The move away from pensions and toward 401(k)s has gutted retirement security for many Americans. Defined contribution plans, like 401(k)s, are risky and unreliable and disproportionately benefit the wealthy. An increasing number of Americans are entering their golden years with inadequate savings. The consequences of this shift in retirement policy have become more real each
- [Income Inequality Causes Retirement Inequality](https://publicpensions.org/income-inequality-causes-retirement-inequality/) - The goal of a retirement savings plan, like a pension, is to replace a certain amount of pre-retirement income during retirement. In earlier periods of American history, many elderly citizens spent their last years in desperate poverty with little savings or income in retirement. Defined benefit pensions and programs like Social Security were created so
- [A Firsthand Account of Pension Madness in Kentucky](https://publicpensions.org/firsthand-account-pension-madness-kentucky/) - Today’s blog post is a guest post from Ellen Suetholz, the coordinator of the Kentucky Public Pension Coalition. In 2017, she filed an open records request to obtain the suppressed actuarial analysis of an earlier pension bill. She was denied her request, so she appealed to the state attorney general’s office. After she won a
- [John Arnold Meddling in California Politics](https://publicpensions.org/john-arnold-meddling-california-politics/) - Over the years, we’ve detailed the many different ways in which John Arnold attacks public pensions nationwide. He has used more than $50 million of his personal fortune to support anti-pension groups like the Retirement Security Initiative; to promote biased research from organizations such as the Pew Research Center; and to fund anti-pension ballot measures.
- [Back to School: Pensions Keep Teachers in the Classroom](https://publicpensions.org/back-school-pensions-keep-teachers-classroom/) - Students are back in school all across the nation now. While many students returned at some point in August, the Tuesday after Labor Day traditionally marks the first day of school in much of the country. With eager students once again filling classrooms, let’s focus on their teachers. Specifically, on the importance of defined benefit
- [Did You Know NFL Players Earn a Pension?](https://publicpensions.org/nfl-players-earn-pension/) - The 2018 NFL season kicks off tonight with a “battle of the birds” between the Atlanta Falcons and the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles. As Americans once again tune in to the nation’s most popular sport, we thought we’d reshare a post from February 8, 2016. At that time, we documented the fact
- [Eleven Years of Fighting for Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/eleven-years-fighting-retirement-security/) - This month, the National Public Pension Coalition (NPPC) celebrates its 11th anniversary of fighting for the retirement security of working families. We have seen some great victories and some painful defeats in the fight to protect pensions. The past eleven years include the Great Recession and its aftermath when public pensions took a financial hit
- [Three States That Abandoned Their Pensions – And Suffered The Consequences](https://publicpensions.org/three-states-abandoned-pensions/) - What happens when a state abandons its defined benefit pension for a riskier, 401(K)-style plan? Taxpayers lose – According to the National Institute on Retirement Security, “for a given level of retirement income, a typical 401(k) plan costs 91% more than a typical pension plan.” Unfunded liabilities increase – closing a pension system exacerbates funding
- [State Pension Update: Kentucky Pension Law Goes to Court](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-pension-law-goes-court/) - This week the Kentucky Supreme Court will hear the case regarding SB 151, the pension-gutting law that was hurriedly passed earlier this year. This case is an appeal of the ruling of Franklin County Circuit Judge Phillip Shepherd that struck down SB 151 for the unconstitutional manner in which it was passed. Governor Matt Bevin
- [Oregon Must Protect Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/oregon-must-protect-public-pensions/) - Today NPPC released a new report titled Oregon PERS Must Be Protected. The report considers the history of the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) and the changes that have previously been made to it. The report then examines the experiences of other states in switching from defined benefit pensions to 401(k)-style plans and concludes
- [Most Americans Have No Retirement Savings](https://publicpensions.org/americans-no-retirement-savings/) - We’ve discussed many times on this blog how the shift from defined benefit pensions to 401(k)-style defined contribution plans has decimated retirement security for a generation of working families. The true depths of the retirement savings crisis are quite alarming. The National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) recently issued an illuminating new report that finds
- [The same old playbook: attacking the pensions of Washington Metro’s employees](https://publicpensions.org/attacking-pensions-washington-metro-employees/) - Public employees of all stripes earn defined benefit pensions through their service to their communities. We frequently discuss teachers and firefighters, nurses and librarians, sanitation workers and police officers. Another group of public employees who earn defined benefit pensions are transit workers, including the employees of the Washington Metro Area Transit Authority, also known as
- [How the Koch Brothers Steal Your Pension](https://publicpensions.org/koch-brothers-public-pensions/) - John Arnold and his cronies are the most well-known opponents of public pensions. John Arnold funds the work of the Pew Research Center, the Retirement Security Initiative, the Reason Foundation, and other groups who are attempting to eliminate public pensions. However, these groups are not the only opponents of public pensions. The Koch brothers fund
- [Gubernatorial Elections and Public Pensions, Part One](https://publicpensions.org/gubernatorial-elections-public-pensions-part-one/) - The elections that will be held on November 6th promise to be some of the most significant in recent years. All 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are up for election, as well as 35 U.S. Senate seats and 36 governor’s mansions. Additionally, numerous state legislative seats and many local races will be
- [Gubernatorial Elections and Public Pensions, Part Two](https://publicpensions.org/gubernatorial-elections-public-pensions-part-two/) - The elections that will be held on November 6th promise to be some of the most significant in recent years. All 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are up for election, as well as 35 U.S. Senate seats and 36 governor’s mansions. Additionally, numerous state legislative seats and many local races will be
- [Gubernatorial Elections and Public Pensions, Part Three](https://publicpensions.org/gubernatorial-elections-public-pensions-part-three/) - The elections that will be held on November 6th promise to be some of the most significant in recent years. All 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are up for election, as well as 35 U.S. Senate seats and 36 governor’s mansions. Additionally, numerous state legislative seats and many local races will be
- [Why Defined Benefit Pensions Cost Less](https://publicpensions.org/defined-benefit-pensions-cost-less/) - During the month of October, we at the National Public Pension Coalition are celebrating retirement security. Next week is National Retirement Security Week. We’ll have more to say about retirement security in a series of blog posts next week. This week, we want to focus on the economics of pensions, the most secure form of
- [Defined Benefit Pensions Support Local Economies](https://publicpensions.org/defined-benefit-pensions-support-local-economies/) - During the month of October, we at the National Public Pension Coalition are celebrating retirement security. Next week is National Retirement Security Week. We’ll have more to say about that in a series of blog posts next week. This week, we want to focus on the economics of pensions, the most secure form of retirement
- [National Retirement Security Week, Part One](https://publicpensions.org/national-retirement-security-week-part-one/) - This week is National Retirement Security Week! Proclaimed by an official declaration from Congress, each year supporters of 401(k)-style defined contribution plans use this week to promote their products. We’ve decided to take back retirement security from the salesmen of the financial industry and focus on the most reliable source of retirement security: defined benefit
- [National Retirement Security Week, Part Two](https://publicpensions.org/national-retirement-security-week-part-two/) - This week is National Retirement Security Week! Proclaimed by an official declaration from Congress in 2016, each year supporters of 401(k)-style defined contribution plans use this week to promote their products. We’ve decided to take back retirement security from the salesmen of the financial industry and focus on the most reliable source of retirement security:
- [National Retirement Security Week, Part Three](https://publicpensions.org/national-retirement-security-week-part-three/) - This week is National Retirement Security Week! Proclaimed by an official declaration from Congress in 2016, each year supporters of 401(k)-style defined contribution plans use this week to promote their products. We’ve decided to take back retirement security from the salesmen of the financial industry and focus on the most reliable source of retirement security:
- [How the Stock Market Affects Your Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/stock-market-affects-retirement/) - Recently, the headlines in the financial section of the newspaper have been dominated by stories about the stock market declining. Some have termed this a “correction” believing that the value of the stock market was inflated to begin with. Regardless of whether this is simply a market correction or the beginnings of another recession, when
- [Haunted House of Pension Horrors: 2018 Edition](https://publicpensions.org/haunted-house-pension-horrors-2018/) - It’s that time of year again -- when the temperature is cooling off and the leaves are falling -- when we must once again enter that most frightening of places: the Haunted House of Pension Horrors. Full of frightening characters seeking to send pensions to the grave, this dreadful abode haunts the dreams of working
- [2018 Midterm Election Preview](https://publicpensions.org/2018-midterm-election-preview/) - Tomorrow, November 6th, is Election Day! This election is one of the most significant in years. Not only are 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives up for election, but 35 U.S. Senate seats, and 35 U.S. governor’s mansions are up for grabs. Additionally, numerous state legislative seats and many local races around the
- [2018 Election Recap](https://publicpensions.org/2018-election-recap/) - Indiana Democrats had a rough night in Indiana, including losing a U.S. Senate seat. Republicans were able to keep their supermajorities in the State House and State Senate and in pension world, a ballot initiative which forces the legislature to pass a balanced budget passed. As we’ve seen in other states, balanced budget amendments can
- [The Shift to 401(k)s Has Decimated Retirement Savings](https://publicpensions.org/shift-401ks-decimated-retirement-savings/) - Long time readers of Defined Benefit know that 401(k)-style defined contribution plans have largely failed working families. Defined contribution plans are a poor substitute for defined benefit pension plans and as the private sector has shifted from pensions to 401(k)s, working families have fallen behind. More and more research is emerging that demonstrates the inadequacy
- [Corporate Giveaways Exceed Public Pension Costs](https://publicpensions.org/corporate-giveaways-exceed-public-pension-costs-2/) - In light of Amazon announcing its two new headquarters on the East Coast, along with the incredible tax incentives provided by Virginia and New York, we’d like to repost a blog from last year about corporate giveaways. In many states, the amount given away in subsidies and tax breaks to big corporations exceeds the amount
- [NPPC's How to Survive the Holidays](https://publicpensions.org/nppcs-survive-holidays/) - This week kicks off the holiday season. Many people will be traveling all over the country to spend Thanksgiving with family and friends. With the election not that far in the rearview mirror, politics are likely to come up in some way or form as people gather over the next six weeks to celebrate the
- [Happy Thanksgiving from NPPC](https://publicpensions.org/happy-thanksgiving-nppc/) - This Thanksgiving, we here at the National Public Pension Coalition are thankful for public employees. We are thankful for their lifetimes of service and all they do to keep our communities running smoothly. Public employees are there for us on the worst days of our lives, and help facilitate some of the best. Public employees
- [Without Pensions, Kentucky Will Lose Teachers](https://publicpensions.org/without-pensions-kentucky-will-lose-teachers/) - As we await a decision from the Kentucky Supreme Court, we wanted to share this piece, written by Laura Adams, a fourth generation teacher from Henry County, Kentucky. Adams shares her story about what SB 151, if upheld by the Supreme Court, would mean for her future as an educator. This piece ran in the
- [Charter School Teachers Deserve Retirement Security Too](https://publicpensions.org/charter-school-teachers-deserve-retirement-security/) - This post was originally published on October 24, 2017 Today the National Public Pension Coalition released a new report titled A School’s Choice: Retirement Security for Charter School Teachers. The report focuses on states where public charter schools have the option of participating in a public pension plan or offering their teachers an alternative retirement
- [Retirees Deserve COLAs](https://publicpensions.org/retirees-deserve-colas/) - A cost of living adjustment (known as a COLA) is is an increase in the amount of a retiree’s or beneficiary’s pension payment in order to account for inflation. As time goes on and inflation increases, the daily costs of buying milk, filling up the gas tank, and paying bills take up more and more
- [How Pension Opponents Use Pension Envy](https://publicpensions.org/pension-opponents-use-pension-envy/) - Today's post is written by Andrew Collier, Communications Director at NPPC. Over the years, many states have enacted laws that make public employee retirees’ pension benefits public information. Every retired public employee, from your high school custodian, school superintendents, to college football coaches have their pension benefits out there in the open for all to
- [Take Note From Minnesota](https://publicpensions.org/take-note-minnesota/) - Bipartisanship. It’s rare these days, isn’t it? No matter which side of politics you’re on over the border wall, health care, climate change, or anything for that matter, it’s tough these days to come together and hash out a deal. Politicians across the United States have been doing this for years, but it seems that
- [Same Old Story in West Haven](https://publicpensions.org/old-story-west-haven/) - Earlier this week, the article West Haven PD, losing officers, pleads with city to return to a traditional pension plan was published in the New Haven Register. The article details how ten years after the city switched the police department from a traditional pension plan to 401(k)s, a shortage of qualified officers is causing the
- [Kentucky Pensions and the Shortest Special Session](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-pensions-shortest-special-session/) - Kentucky and its public pensions are often in the news and this year has been no exception. In just the past two weeks, the Kentucky Supreme Court unanimously struck down the hurriedly passed pension-gutting bill, SB 151, and then Governor Matt Bevin called a special session of the legislature to deal with pensions -- which
- [Grateful for Public Employees and Their Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/grateful-public-employees-retirement-security/) - During this holiday season, many people are fortunate to enjoy winter vacations and travel to spend time with family and friends. For many public employees, however, their work does not stop for the holidays. Every year, there are thousands of public employees who show up for work on December 25, January 1, and every other
- [2019: The Year Ahead for Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/2019-year-ahead-public-pensions/) - A new year is upon us and state legislatures will begin their new legislative sessions as early as this week in some states. Following last year’s midterm elections, we expect this year will be a very active year for state legislatures. In many states, lawmakers will be considering bills affecting public pensions. Today we look
- [Reviewing the Basics of Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-basics/) - Across the country, new governors and state legislators are being sworn into office this month. Many of these policymakers will cast votes and make decisions regarding public pensions during their time in office. New legislators often enter office with little knowledge about public pensions, why they work, how they are funded, etc. In the spirit
- [Federal Employees, Retirement, and the Government Shutdown](https://publicpensions.org/federal-employees-retirement-government-shutdown/) - Today marks the 24th day of the partial shutdown of the federal government. As the shutdown drags on, the effects are becoming more widespread. Some of those most significantly impacted are federal employees who have either been furloughed or forced to work without pay during the shutdown. Federal employees participate in the so-called “three-legged stool”
- [Public Pensions Continue to Support Local Economies](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-support-local-economies/) - The National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) released the most recent update of their Pensionomics report this month. Released every two years, Pensionomics assesses the impact that public pensions have on local, state, and national economies. This year’s report finds that public pensions and the spending of pension benefits continue to have a strong effect
- [How Public Pensions Benefit State Economies](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-benefit-state-economies/) - Last week we wrote about the new Pensionomics report from the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS). The report examines how public pensions benefit the national economy by supporting local jobs and stimulating economic activity. The Pensionomics report also contains a lot of helpful information about the impact of public pensions in each of the
- [Race Impacts Earnings, Wealth, and Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/race-earnings-wealth-retirement-security/) - It should come as little surprise that the amount a worker earns during their career has a direct impact on the amount they can save for retirement. The higher the earnings, the greater the retirement savings. The same is true for wealth: generally speaking, wealthier people have greater levels of retirement savings. So what happens
- [Latinos and Retirement Insecurity: a Closer Look](https://publicpensions.org/latinos-retirement-insecurity/) - Last week we wrote about the many ways race and ethnicity affect retirement savings. Today, we want to focus more closely on the challenges many Latinos face in saving for retirement. Despite being the fastest-growing demographic group in the United States, Latinos have lower levels of retirement savings than other groups. This retirement insecurity has
- [Public Pensions Greatly Benefit Rural Areas](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-greatly-benefit-rural-areas/) - We’ve been talking a lot this month about the economic benefits of public pensions at both the state and national levels. Through the investment activities of the pension fund and the spending of pension benefits by retirees, public pension plans generate substantial economic activity as well as tax revenue for local and state governments. It’s
- [Attacks on Pensions Are Still Happening Again and Again](https://publicpensions.org/attacks-pensions-still-happening/) - Tomorrow is Groundhog Day. This is also the time of the year when many state legislatures are beginning their sessions and legislators are introducing bills - some of which attack pensions. To commemorate these two occasions, we are re-posting this post from February 2017. The more things change, the more they stay the same. Today
- [Wyoming Retirees Need a Cost of Living Adjustment](https://publicpensions.org/wyoming-cost-living-adjustment/) - Retired public employees in Wyoming have not received a cost of living adjustment (COLA) in over a decade. COLAs are necessary to adjust for inflation. The price of almost everything, including food, medicine, and rent, tends to increase over time. If pension benefit payments don’t increase as well, their purchasing power is gradually eroded over
- [The Reason Foundation is Still Attacking Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/reason-foundation-still-attacking-pensions/) - Many state legislatures have been meeting for a month now. We’re already seeing legislation that would impact public pensions in both positive and negative ways. One group that has been actively attacking pensions is the Reason Foundation. Employees of the Reason Foundation have been on the ground in Arizona, Arkansas, and Kentucky, promoting their anti-pension
- [The Funding Levels of Pension Plans Continue to Improve](https://publicpensions.org/funding-levels-pension-plans-continue-improve/) - Public pension plans continue to improve their funding levels. This is the big takeaway from the latest plan survey by the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS). Each year NCPERS, a trade association representing more than 500 state and local public pension plans, conducts a survey of its member plans. In its 2018
- [Pension Changes in Utah Hurt Public Safety](https://publicpensions.org/pension-changes-utah-hurt-public-safety/) - In the immediate aftermath of the Great Recession and facing pressure from anti-pension ideologues, a number of cities and states passed harmful changes to public pensions. Now those cities and states are beginning to face the consequences of these changes. One prime example of this is Utah, which gutted its pension plan for police officers
- [Did You Know That Presidents Receive a Pension?](https://publicpensions.org/know-presidents-receive-pension/) - Yesterday, people across the United States celebrated Presidents’ Day. Many had the day off from work thanks to the federal holiday, which is officially Washington’s Birthday, not Presidents’ Day. Many others undoubtedly took advantage of the numerous sales offered for every major and minor holiday. Here at NPPC, we had our minds on pensions, in
- [Corporate giveaways and the funding of public pensions](https://publicpensions.org/corporate-giveaways-funding-public-pensions/) - One of the major news stories last week was Amazon’s announcement that they are abandoning their plans to locate part of HQ2 in New York City. Facing pressure from local politicians and concerned citizens over a variety of issues, including substantial tax giveaways from the city and state governments, Amazon decided not to move forward
- [What is Stress Testing and Why Does It Matter?](https://publicpensions.org/stress-testing/) - In the past few years, states have considered legislation that would require public pension plans to conduct financial stress testing. While we’ve mostly written about Pew’s promotion of cash balance plans, Pew is also known for traveling to states and pushing for mandatory stress testing. The thing is, most public pension plans already conduct financial
- [What is the Equable Institute?](https://publicpensions.org/equable-institute/) - It seems like there is always some new group attacking public pensions. When one group fades away, a new group pops up to take its place. One new group on the scene is called the Equable Institute. While the group may be new, the people behind it are not. Let’s introduce you to the organization’s
- [Americans Recognize They Face a Retirement Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/americans-face-retirement-crisis/) - Americans are facing a retirement savings crisis. The experts have warned about this for a while now. But do working families themselves recognize the growing crisis? The answer is overwhelmingly “yes” according to a new survey from the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS). Released last week, the survey finds that Americans of all political
- [The California Supreme Court Upholds the California Rule](https://publicpensions.org/california-supreme-court-upholds-california-rule/) - Earlier this week, the California Supreme Court issued a major decision in a case regarding public pension benefits in the Golden State. Ruling in the case Cal Fire Local 2881 v. CalPERS, the court unanimously agreed to uphold the California Rule, while also upholding part of a 2012 law that modified pension benefits in the
- [Pensions on Main Street](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-main-street/) - Public pensions are powerful economic engines for local communities, states, and the national economy. As the money in public pension funds is invested and as public pension benefits are spent by retirees, this creates economic activity that supports local jobs, generates tax revenues for local, state, and federal governments, and sustains communities during economic downturns.
- [Who is Chad Aldeman and why is he attacking pensions for teachers?](https://publicpensions.org/chad-aldeman-attacking-pensions-teachers/) - If you happen to stumble across the website TeacherPensions.org, you might think it is a website advocating for the retirement security of public school teachers. You would be wrong. TeacherPensions.org is a project of Bellwether Education Partners, an “education reform” organization that is hostile to traditional public schools, their teachers, and the pensions those teachers
- [Kentucky lawmakers are at it again](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-lawmakers-are-at-it-again/) - Today's blog post was written by NPPC Communications Director Andrew Collier. If you’ve been a reader of Defined Benefit since we started this blog, you’d know that some lawmakers in Kentucky have tried to dismantle public pensions several times. Last year, lawmakers pushed through SB1 - a bill that created a cash balance system for
- [Oklahoma Coalition Pushes COLA for Public Employee Retirees](https://publicpensions.org/oklahoma-coalition-pushes-cola-public-employee-retirees/) - Retired and current public employees in Oklahoma are resilient. After facing a defeat on cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) legislation last year, current and retired public employees are fighting once again for a much-needed boost in retiree benefits. On March 11th, the Oklahoma House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed HB2304 by a vote of 98-3, which provides a
- [Kentucky Lawmakers Make Another Mistake](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-lawmakers-make-another-mistake/) - Today's blog post was contributed by Andrew Collier, Communications Director at NPPC. Kentucky legislators have a habit of passing legislation at the very last second, bypassing the democratic process by waiving readings and stifling input from the public. Just like they did last year, lawmakers did it again at the end of this year’s legislative
- [New Hampshire Retirees Fight for a COLA](https://publicpensions.org/new-hampshire-retirees-fight-cola/) - Today's blog post was written by Andrew Collier, Communications Director at NPPC. This year, several state legislatures have passed or attempted to pass a COLA for their retired public employees. In New Hampshire, retirees got one step closer to making that happen, due to their strong advocacy and education on the issue. Much like other
- [NPPC Launches Pensions on Main Street](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-launches-pensions-main-street/) - Today, NPPC proudly launches “Pensions on Main Street,” which is dedicated to making the voices of current and retired public employees heard. Public pension benefits are spent in local communities around our country each and every day, supporting local jobs and businesses. This new section of our website will highlight the stories of current and
- [Where are state legislatures with COLAs?](https://publicpensions.org/state-legislatures-colas/) - Over the last few weeks, we’ve been updating readers on where cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) bills are all across the country. Many retired public employees haven’t seen a COLA in over a decade. As the price of medicine, groceries, and other essential items increase, retired public employee benefits have stayed stagnant causing them undue harm. We’ve
- [Oregon Gov. Kate Brown Turns Her Back on Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/oregon-gov-kate-brown-turns-back-public-employees/) - Today's blog post was written by NPPC Communications Director Andrew Collier. In last year’s gubernatorial election in Oregon, Kate Brown defeated State Representative Knute Buehler. We’ve written about how anti-pension Buehler is before: he expressed interest in switching all newly hired public employees to a defined contribution system. Public employees rallied around Gov. Kate Brown
- [The Push for COLAs and Teacher Pay Raises in Texas](https://publicpensions.org/push-colas-teacher-pay-raises-texas/) - The State of Texas is moving in the right direction. This year, the state legislature is making strides to provide a dignified retirement to their retired public employees and make sure that their teachers are paid adequately. This year, several state legislatures, including Texas, have tried or are in the process of passing cost-of-living adjustments
- [Pew Misleads States by Pushing Cash Balance Plans](https://publicpensions.org/pew-misleads-states-pushing-cash-balance-plans/) - At the end of this month, Pew Charitable Trusts plans on unveiling a new report that highlights the aspects of the best funded pension plans. Today's blog post is a reminder to readers of Pew Charitable Trusts’s track record when it comes to pension policy. The Pew Charitable Trusts are a widely respected source of
- [Branford PD Restores Pensions for Officers and Why it Matters](https://publicpensions.org/branford-pd-restores-pensions-officers-matters/) - In April it was reported by the New Haven Register that Branford, Connecticut’s Police Department was looking to restore defined benefit pensions for their officers. Yesterday, that push came to be as the Representative Town meeting unanimously approved both the four-year contract for officers and the move back to a defined benefit pension. In 2011,
- [Unpacking Missouri’s Legislative Session For Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/unpacking-missouris-legislative-session-public-pensions/) - Today's blog post was written by Crystal Brigman Mahaney of the Missouri Retirement Security Coalition. Those who believe all Missourians should be able to retire with dignity and security — especially after a long career of serving our communities — can breathe a little easier this week. On Friday evening, Missouri’s legislators ceremoniously tossed their papers in the air
- [New Brief Finds Benefit Cuts Reduce Retention](https://publicpensions.org/new-brief-finds-benefit-cuts-reduce-retention/) - This month, the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College released a brief entitled, “Do Benefit Cuts Encourage Public Employees to Leave?” Their findings indicate that benefit cuts to current employees cause employees to leave the public sector for private sector employment. The brief analyzes the 2005 reform of the Employees’ Retirement System of Rhode
- [Texas Legislature Provides “13th Check” to Retired Teachers](https://publicpensions.org/texas-legislature-provides-13th-check-retired-teachers/) - This year’s legislative sessions have been a whirlwind for NPPC’s coalitions across the country. Our coalitions have done some great work by ensuring the protection of public employees’ pensions and making sure retirees can keep up with the cost of inflation by pushing for cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs). The Texas Pension Coalition (TPC) worked hard for
- [Defined Benefit Pensions Continue to Provide  Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/defined-benefit-pensions-continue-provide-retirement-security/) - This week, Andy Kiersz of Business Insider wrote an article about The Federal Reserve’s recently published report on household finances in the US. The report found that a staggering 26 percent of non-retired adults, regardless of age, have absolutely no retirement savings. The report also found that 44 percent of non-retired adults do not think
- [Share Your Story: Suzan](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-suzan/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieGgCiNM98I"]
- [Cash Balance Plans Could Make a Comeback](https://publicpensions.org/cash-balance-plans-make-comeback/) - As state legislative sessions wind down across the country, some lawmakers are looking toward next year to introduce disastrous pension legislation. We here at NPPC think this is a good time to re-post a blog written by our former Program Manager, Tyler Bond. In his piece, Tyler writes about cash balance pension plans, which have
- [America Has a Retirement Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/america-retirement-crisis/) - Today's blog post is written by Andrew Collier, NPPC's Communications Director. According to a recent National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) report, more than 75 percent of Americans are worried about their ability to attain and sustain financial security in their older years. Additionally, 57 percent of working age adults do not have a retirement
- [Share Your Story: Steve](https://publicpensions.org/4757-2/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3brCDS2r9o&feature=youtu.be"]
- [Pensions in the Papers](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-in-the-papers/) - This week, we’re highlighting a few op-eds that our coalitions helped publish in their local papers during this year’s legislative session. Public pensions boost Arizona’s local economies: This op-ed, written by Dora Vasquez, a former employee of the city of Casa Grande, highlights how important pensions are to Arizona’s state economy as well as local
- [Share Your Story: Linda](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-linda/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_wvp9Y90Fg"]
- [Why Are Some Pension Employees Not In Social Security?](https://publicpensions.org/pension-employees-not-social-security/) - This week, we’re reposting a blog post from 2017 where we discussed why certain public employees do not receive Social Security. When most Americans begin to prepare for retirement, they count on Social Security to form the bedrock of their retirement savings. For millions of working families, Social Security is the key to retiring with
- [Share Your Story: Denise](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-denise/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXU3XhV4eFc"]
- [Kentucky: A Historical Look at Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-historical-look-public-pensions/) - Over the last decade, Kentucky lawmakers have passed or attempted to pass all different types of pension legislation. Here at NPPC, we wanted to provide some historical context as to how Kentucky’s public pension systems ended up in their current situation and write about the different kinds of legislation lawmakers considered to address the underfunding
- [Five Mistakes Kentucky Lawmakers Are Making](https://publicpensions.org/five-mistakes-kentucky-lawmakers-making/) - Today's blog post was written by Bridget Early, Executive Director at NPPC. Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin has called a special session that began yesterday. The special session is being used to pass his proposed pension bill, HB1. House and Senate leadership say they have the votes to pass the legislation, but ultimately, it’s not over
- [Share Your Story: Mary](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-mary/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://youtu.be/xnMkoDJ2r9g"]
- [Share Your Story: Barbara](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-barbara/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://youtu.be/pzuctGkPmlQ"]
- [The "Pension Crisis" is a Myth, Part Six](https://publicpensions.org/pension-crisis-myth-part-six-2/) - Since the Great Recession in 2008, warnings of an impending pension crisis have been splashed across the business pages of newspapers across the country. Despite these boisterous decrees, America’s public pension funds are stable. We explore the roots behind the false pension crisis narrative and examine the facts. As we’ve recounted throughout this series, anti-pension
- [Share Your Story: Alma](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-alma/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://youtu.be/0Dt0DXcKIEU"]
- [NIRS Releases Series of Case Studies on Downfalls of Closing Pension Plans](https://publicpensions.org/nirs-releases-series-case-studies-downfalls-closing-pension-plans/) - The National Institute on Retirement Security released a new series of case studies entitled, “Enduring Challenges: Examining the Experiences of States that Closed Pension Plans.” The studies examine four states, Alaska, Kentucky, Michigan, and West Virginia, that have all closed their pension plans and moved newly hired public employees into defined contribution, hybrid, or cash
- [Share Your Story: Jerry](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-jerry/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://youtu.be/KJ-cAz_dnOo"]
- [NPPC Moves The Ball Forward for Public Employees in 2019](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-moves-ball-forward-public-employees-2019/) - Today’s post was written by Bridget Early, NPPC’s Executive Director. NPPC has worked hard this year to ensure public employee pensions are protected. NPPC’s coalitions across the country were successful in passing COLA legislation for retired public employees, shored up pension funds, and started the conversation for next year’s legislative sessions. Although 2019 isn’t over
- [Share Your Story: Launa](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-launa/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://youtu.be/R6TMoR1W4G8"]
- [Student Loan Debt Reduces Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/student-loan-debt-reduces-retirement-security/) - As college students head back to class in the next couple of weeks, here's a reminder that student loan debt is harming the ability for young people to save for their retirement. The amount of student loan debt has increased significantly in the last decade. A study by Experian found that student loan debt had risen
- [States should examine re-opening pension plans ](https://publicpensions.org/states-examine-re-opening-pension-plans/) - This week’s blog post was written by NPPC’s Executive Director, Bridget Early Earlier this month we wrote about the National Institute on Retirement Security’s new set of case studies on Kentucky, Alaska, and Michigan. The studies concluded that unfunded liabilities grow, retirement security for public servants diminishes, and recruiting and retaining employees becomes more difficult
- [Share Your Story: Jim](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-jim/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://youtu.be/mGvzqj9BS7A"]
- [The truth about cost-sharing](https://publicpensions.org/truth-cost-sharing/) - This year and last year, many have used the term cost-sharing when referring to certain types of pension policy. In particular, Pew Charitable Trusts has been advocating for cost-sharing in pension plans across the nation using pension plans in Tennessee, Wisconsin, and South Dakota as examples of effective policy. Unfortunately, for many pension plans, cost-sharing
- [Share Your Story: Eve](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-eve/) - Throughout the fall, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85pTGUrOGtM&list=PLqa1XH6sllcggbYiw5XTP1n1gtOOXcVl5&index=5"]
- [CAFR show pensions still better than 401(k)s](https://publicpensions.org/cafr-show-pensions-still-better-401ks/) - In a piece that was published in the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel, Emma Donahue, Secure PERA’s program manager makes the argument that a pension provides a more secure retirement than a 401(k) and PERA’s most recent CAFR report proves it. Secure PERA is NPPC’s coalition in the State of Colorado. Recently, Colorado's Public Employee Retirement
- [Share Your Story: Kay](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-kay/) - Throughout the fall, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://youtu.be/wiNRhvSY4iU"]
- [Don’t Believe the Echo Chamber: Closing Pension Plans is a Bad Idea](https://publicpensions.org/dont-believe-echo-chamber-closing-pension-plans-bad-idea/) - This month, we wrote about The Truth About Cost Sharing and Pew Charitable Trusts using pension plans in Tennessee, South Dakota, and Wisconsin as examples of cost-sharing policy. We went on to debunk the assertion that cost-sharing policies are the way forward by arguing that pension systems shouldn’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to pension policies.
- [Kentucky: A Historical Look at Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-historical-look-public-pensions-2/) - Over the last decade, Kentucky lawmakers have passed or attempted to pass all different types of pension legislation. Here at NPPC, we wanted to provide some historical context as to how Kentucky’s public pension systems ended up in their current situation and write about the different kinds of legislation lawmakers considered to address the underfunding
- [Kentucky: a Historical Look at Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/kentucky-historical-look-public-pensions-3/) - Over the last decade, Kentucky lawmakers have passed or attempted to pass all different types of pension legislation. Here at NPPC, we wanted to provide some historical context as to how Kentucky’s public pension systems ended up in their current situation and write about the different kinds of legislation lawmakers considered to address the underfunding
- [Share Your Story: Rohan](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-rohan/) - Throughout the fall, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMWMGRdsPlM"]
- [NPPC Celebrates 12 Years!](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-celebrates-12-years/) - Twelve years ago, the National Public Pension Coalition (NPPC) was established. In 2007, public pensions were under attack, and since then, we’ve seen many of the same anti-pension opponents continue to demean public employees and their hard-earned pensions. NPPC has been on the front lines of these fights, working with public employees across the nation
- [Share Your Story: Sheila](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-sheila/) - Throughout the fall, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzacZ93533Q&list=PLqa1XH6sllcggbYiw5XTP1n1gtOOXcVl5&index=25"]
- [Submit a Story for Retirement Security Month](https://publicpensions.org/submit-story-retirement-security-month/) - For the second year in a row, NPPC is celebrating Retirement Security Month during the month of October. This month, we will be sharing some of our favorite content, including op-eds, videos, and worker stories. In the spirit of the month, we want to give you the opportunity to share your story about why your
- [PUBLIC PENSIONS GREATLY BENEFIT RURAL AREAS](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-greatly-benefit-rural-areas-2/) - For the second week of Retirement Security Month, we are highlighting a post from January 2019 on public pensions and rural areas. We’ve been talking a lot this month about the economic benefits of public pensions at both the state and national levels. Through the investment activities of the pension fund and the spending of pension benefits by retirees,
- [Why 401(k)s have caused the retirement security crisis](https://publicpensions.org/401ks-caused-retirement-security-crisis/) - Today's post was written by NPPC's Executive Director Bridget Early. Readers of Defined Benefit know that NPPC has been shining a light on the failings of the defined contribution 401(k). Since its inception in the 1980s as a retirement savings vehicle, research has shown that 401(k)s are the reason many working people are now woefully
- [Three Things You Need to Know During Retirement Security Week](https://publicpensions.org/three-things-need-know-retirement-security-week/) - On behalf of all of us at the National Public Pension Coalition, we want to wish you a happy Retirement Security Week! Every year during the third week of October, we recognize the importance of defending the pensions public workers have earned throughout their working lives. During this Retirement Security Week we’ve highlighted three things
- [Understanding Unfunded Liability](https://publicpensions.org/understanding-unfunded-liability/) - Time and again, articles are published about states with “large unfunded liabilities.” Often, writers and anti-pension critics use large numbers to scare readers into thinking America has a pension crisis. This is a myth. Before falling for pension opponents’ messaging, readers should understand how a plan determines the unfunded liability. In 2017, Defined Benefit covered
- [Kansas: A Historical Look at Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/kansas-historical-look-public-pensions/) - Earlier this year, we took a deeper look at the history of Kentucky pensions. Fraught with years of underfunding, legislative tax breaks and subsidies to corporations, Kentucky’s pension systems are underfunded. Kansas was in a similar situation, but in recent years they’ve looked to right their wrongs. Part two of our historical guide series takes
- [New Poll Shows Why Pensions Matter for Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/new-poll-shows-pensions-matter-public-employees/) - A new national poll released yesterday shows that pension benefits are one of the most important job features for state and local government employees, with 93 percent of them saying that pensions incentivize workers to have long careers in the public sector. The poll, conducted by the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS), also revealed
- [Share Your Story: Judie](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-judie/) - Throughout the fall, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yuIslpvtqOU"]
- [Oklahoma: A Historical Look at Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/oklahoma-historical-look-public-pensions/) - This year we have taken a look at the history of pensions in Kansas and Kentucky. Fraught with years of underfunding, legislative tax breaks, and subsidies to corporations, both Kansas and Kentucky’s pension systems are underfunded. Oklahoma was in a similar situation, and much like Kansas and Kentucky, the state government made the wrong move
- [Share Your Story: Sue](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-sue/) - Throughout the fall, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2k6_f8IpJ4"]
- [Public Employees Share Why They Are Grateful This Thanksgiving](https://publicpensions.org/public-employees-share-grateful-thanksgiving/) - Thanksgiving is more than just a time for participating in all the usual festivities (eating turkey with all the trimmings, catching up with family, etc.). It’s also a time to reflect on what provides us with security and joy. This Thanksgiving, we’re sharing some of the reasons that public employees are thankful for their pensions.
- [Share Your Story: Barbara](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-barbara-2/) - Throughout the fall, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://youtu.be/nSw9eER6bOI"]
- [Why a COLA Matters in Oklahoma](https://publicpensions.org/cola-matters-oklahoma/) - On November 15, 2019, the Oklahoma House of Representatives held an interim study committee meeting on why retirees need a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Rep. Avery Frix, the sponsor of the study, previously led a push to grant public employees a COLA during the 2019 legislative session. What is a COLA, and why does it matter
- [Share Your Story: The Schicketanzes](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-schicketanzes/) - Throughout the fall, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://youtu.be/e7XxHCaN4Zg"]
- [How to Counter Pension Myths During the Holidays](https://publicpensions.org/counter-pension-myths-holidays/) - Holidays are one of the rare moments throughout the year when you can gather with loved ones. In between partaking in activities such as avoiding cold weather and doing last-minute shopping, you can also view this time as an opportunity to address any misconceptions about public pensions! Below we’ve highlighted some common myths and facts
- [Share Your Story: Jack](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-jack/) - Throughout the fall, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://youtu.be/lzEL4RRHmdY"]
- [NPPC Team Shares 2019 Highlights and 2020 Goals](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-team-shares-2019-highlights-2020-goals/) - As 2019 comes to an end, we at the National Public Pension Coalition (NPPC) wanted to take time to reflect on two things: what we were grateful for this year, and what goals we want to achieve in the fight for retirement security next year. Below some of our staff shares their thoughts about 2019
- [Share Your Story: Rodger](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-rodger/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVPY-PWQSrY"]
- [Share Your Story: Jim](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-jim-2/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zou0st-Tvf4&feature=youtu.be"]
- [Three Ways You Can Protect Pensions During a Legislative Session](https://publicpensions.org/three-ways-can-protect-pensions-legislative-session/) - Did you know that, as of today, almost half of the state legislatures across the country have already begun their legislative sessions? Legislative sessions provide an opportunity for politicians to make decisions that affect their state’s public pension system - making them a critical time for public employees to be on the lookout for any
- [Share Your Story: Helen](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-helen/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDj4Pcr5_Hk"]
- [Inside the Fight for COLAs in 2020](https://publicpensions.org/inside-fight-colas-2020/) - A new study from the University of Massachusetts’s Gerontology Institute evaluated the gap that exists for retirees who live between poverty and having just enough income to cover their necessary expenses. Retirees in several states face an uphill battle when it comes to retirement security. In Oklahoma, for example, 19.6 percent of retired couples fall
- [Share Your Story: Ed](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-ed/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_v6yA7NIx0"]
- [New Report Shows How States Give Away Millions of Dollars in Corporate Tax Breaks and Subsidies Every Year](https://publicpensions.org/new-report/) - Yesterday Good Jobs First (GJF), a non-profit, non-partisan research center focusing on economic development accountability, released new reports showing how states give away millions of dollars in corporate tax breaks and subsidies each year and comparing that with the cost of fully funding their pension systems. The five states highlighted include Arizona, Connecticut, Kentucky, Oklahoma,
- [Share Your Story: Denise](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-denise-2/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFRieu4y9wE"]
- [Three Common Misconceptions About Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/three-common-misconceptions-pensions/) - Anti-pension ideologues will often use the same false attacks on pensions and retirement security for public employees. Today we’ve compiled three common misconceptions about pensions and explained why they are false. 1. Retired public employees automatically receive cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) that tremendously boost their incomes. One recurring pension misconception is the falsehood that retired public
- [Share Your Story: Lisa](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-lisa/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIFANXaCxK4"]
- [Retirees Rally for a COLA in Kansas](https://publicpensions.org/retirees-rally-cola-kansas/) - On Monday, more than 100 retired public employees rallied at the Kansas state capitol to demand the state legislature pass a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) this year. In Kansas, the legislature has not granted a COLA since 1997, more than 23 years ago. As the cost of medical bills and groceries continues to take a larger
- [Share Your Story: Robert](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-robert/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nu4L7O1kg5U&feature=youtu.be"]
- [Where Do The 2020 Presidential Candidates Stand on Retirement Security?](https://publicpensions.org/2020-presidential-candidates-stand-retirement-security/) - As of today, we are 257 days away from the 2020 presidential election. This election will have the potential to affect the retirement security for millions of Americans. Below we’ve outlined the retirement security plans of all the major presidential candidates so you can compare where they stand on this important topic. President Donald Trump
- [Share Your Story: Eddie](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-eddie/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShWBcgenjN0&feature=youtu.be"]
- [Wyoming: A Historical Look at Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/wyoming-historical-look-public-pensions/) - Throughout the last few months, we have explored the history of several states and their pension funds including Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Each of these states’ pension funds can speak of their successes when bolstering communities through economic investment and supporting jobs. Although they have been successful, many times lawmakers have not treated these funds
- [What is the Elder Index, and Why Does It Matter for Retirees?](https://publicpensions.org/elder-index-matter-retirees/) - When it comes to preparing for one’s golden years, retirees are often left on the hook for figuring out how to afford basic necessities in retirement. One tool, however, can help retirees understand their future budgets. The Elder Index is an index produced by the Gerontology Institute at the University of Massachusetts that measures the
- [Share Your Story: Dora](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-dora/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1EpB7LBEqM"]
- [Retirees Share Why They Love Their Pension](https://publicpensions.org/retirees-share-love-pension/) - This Friday is Valentine’s Day (or Anna Howard Shaw Day for those who celebrate other events on February 14). To celebrate, we asked retired public employees to share why they love their pensions. We’ve compiled some of our favorite responses below. My pension allows me to live with dignity and modest security. It is not
- [Share Your Story: Cynthia](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-cynthia/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lotCq14M0tU"]
- [Iowa: A Historical Look at Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/iowa-historical-look-public-pensions-1/) - In 2019, we explored the history of public pension systems in Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Kansas. These plans were fraught with years of underfunding and legislative tax breaks and subsidies to corporations. In recent years, lawmakers in these states have tried to right their wrongs. Iowa, though, continues to have one of the best-funded pension systems
- [The Backstory: Public Pensions in Texas](https://publicpensions.org/backstory-public-pensions-texas/) - Today’s post was written by the Texas Pension Coalition's Keegan Shepherd. Public pensions have been an integral part of the Lone Star State for a long time. The Teachers Retirement System of Texas (TRS)—one of the twenty largest pension systems in the world—dates back to the late 1930s, following voter approval of an amendment to
- [Share Your Story: Barbara](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-barbara-3/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCR4-JPFkAQ"]
- [Background on Connecticut’s Pension Systems](https://publicpensions.org/background-connecticuts-pension-systems/) - Today’s post was written by the Connecticut Coalition for Retirement Security's Alisha Blake. Connecticut has five different pension plans. The three largest plans are the State Employees’ Retirement System (SERS), the Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS), and the Municipal Employees’ Retirement System (MERS) - the lesser two being the Judges’ Family Support Retirement System (JFSRS) and
- [How Public Pensions Help Rural & Small Town America](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-help-rural-small-town-america/) - About one in five Americans lives in rural areas and small towns across the United States, and they face unique economic challenges compared with those living and working in other areas of the country. Many of these communities, for example, still have not fully recovered from the Great Recession in 2008. Earlier this month, the
- [Share Your Story: Ellen](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-ellen/) - Throughout the winter, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5ycdKIkP5Y"]
- [What is the Middle Precariat, and Why Does It Matter for Retirement Security?](https://publicpensions.org/middle-precariat-matter-retirement-security/) - The coronavirus outbreak is wreaking havoc not just on our health care system, but also our economy. Restaurants, bars, coffee shops, hotels, airlines, small businesses, and other groups are sidelining workers, slashing hours, and suspending operations in the wake of the global pandemic. This will harm the lives of millions of Americans who belong in
- [Share Your Story: Debbie](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-debbie/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUKqWwwhYnM"]
- [Wyoming: A Look at This Year's Legislative Session](https://publicpensions.org/wyoming-look-years-legislative-session/) - On March 6, the Wyoming state legislature wrapped up its annual legislative session. Because it was a budget session, it lasted a quick 20 days, but in that time an inflation adjustment bill passed the state House in part because of the Wyoming Coalition for Retirement Security (WCRS) and hard-working retired public employees from across
- [Share Your Story: Bill](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-bill/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2K29roI3JS8"]
- [Why Does the Cost of Long-Term Care Matter for Retirees?](https://publicpensions.org/cost-long-term-care-matter-retirees/) - Long-term care supports 7.9 million Americans over the age of 65 who cannot successfully navigate day to day activities on their own due to their age, according to AARP. With retirement planning, this can be one vital yet expensive aspect that is sometimes overlooked. These activities, according to the National Institute on Aging, include all
- [Share Your Story: Walter](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-walter/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeR2-P9tPHc"]
- [Public Employees Share How They Are Serving During the Coronavirus Pandemic](https://publicpensions.org/public-employees-share-serving-coronavirus-pandemic/) - Active and retired public employees across the country are stepping up and helping their communities in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. Below, we share stories of how some of them are serving at this time. “I am a retired public employee. My husband and I have a little makeshift assembly line going on in
- [Share Your Story: Larry](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-larry/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWNTPRs3fA4"]
- [News Stories Show Public Employees In Action During the Coronavirus Pandemic](https://publicpensions.org/news-stories-show-public-employees-action-coronavirus-pandemic/) - Last Wednesday, we shared stories from public employees about how they are serving their communities during the coronavirus pandemic. Today, we’re going to share a few news stories of other active or retired public employees who are helping their communities at this time. Former police officer provides free grocery delivery service for seniors (KY) In
- [Share Your Story: Tara](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-tara/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5L_R6Rtcb0"]
- [Pension Critics Cite The Market Downturn To Try and Gut Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/pension-critics-cite-market-downturn-try-gut-pensions/) - Right now, millions of Americans are feeling the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the past four weeks, more than 22 million unemployment claims have been filed across the country. The stock market is trying to recover from a significant downturn. And businesses are trying to keep their doors open in this new economic
- [Share Your Story: Vicki](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-vicki/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozXxYhHuQfk"]
- [Second Round of Reports Show States Give Away Millions of Dollars in Corporate Tax Breaks and Subsidies Every Year](https://publicpensions.org/second-round-reports-show-states-give-away-millions-dollars-corporate-tax-breaks-subsidies-every-year/) - On Monday, Good Jobs First (GJF), a non-profit, non-partisan research center focusing on economic development accountability, released another round of reports showing how states give away millions of dollars in corporate tax breaks and subsidies each year, money that could’ve been used to fully cover the cost of funding their pension systems. The states highlighted
- [Share Your Story: Ron](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-ron/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MjzGzHNMYs"]
- [What You Need to Know About Pensions & Divorce](https://publicpensions.org/need-know-pensions-divorce/) - In 2018, the Pension Rights Center received roughly 2,000 inquiries from people seeking free legal assistance with their retirement plans. About one-fifth of those inquiries involved divorce. Emily Spreiser, Legal Program Director at the Pension Rights Center, shared this number during the National Institute on Retirement Security’s (NIRS) annual conference in Washington, DC on March
- [Share Your Story: Gabriel](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-gabriel/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hofnBpw8LqQ"]
- [How the Gender Pay Gap Affects Retirement Security for Women](https://publicpensions.org/gender-pay-gap-affects-retirement-security-women/) - Last Thursday, the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) released new research on how the gender pay gap affects women in retirement. In its findings, NIRS discovered that “older women receive about 80 percent of the retirement income older men receive” in “a disparity that mirrors the gender pay gap.” NIRS also explored some of
- [Share Your Story: Robin](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-robin/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5ZX1lGal7M"]
- [How Will The Market Downturn Affect Pensions?](https://publicpensions.org/will-market-downturn-affect-pensions/) - Since the current market downturn began, pension critics have been pushing a false narrative that unfunded liabilities are skyrocketing and that pensions are at risk of running out of money. Last Tuesday, the Center for State & Local Government Excellence (SLGE) released a new report on how the economic crisis will affect public pensions, which
- [Share Your Story: Joshua](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-joshua/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCgQy_C_Fz0"]
- [Oklahoma’s Retired Public Employees Achieve Their First COLA in 12 Years](https://publicpensions.org/oklahomas-retired-public-employees-achieve-first-cola-12-years/) - Last Thursday, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitts signed House Bill 3350 into law, which grants most of Oklahoma’s retired public employees their first cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 12 years. The bill was unanimously passed by the state House and by an overwhelming 41-5 vote in the state Senate. This is a huge victory for Oklahoma’s retired
- [Share Your Story: Mike](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-mike/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZTLHzoExKA"]
- [Why Do Most Private-Sector Workers Not Have a Pension?](https://publicpensions.org/private-sector-workers-not-pension/) - As late as 1980, almost half of all private-sector employers had an employer-sponsored pension plan, according to the Georgetown University Law Center. By 2006, that number had decreased to lower than one in four private-sector workers. Research shows that pensions are one of the best ways to guarantee a secure retirement. Why, then, has the
- [Public Employee Stories: June 4, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-4-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines during this pandemic. We wanted to take some time to highlight their work. Here are stories
- [Share Your Story: Gilbert](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-gilbert/) - Throughout the spring, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eyj13p5fxdA"]
- [Racial Inequality in Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/racial-inequality-retirement/) - This piece was written by NPPC’s Executive Director, Bridget Early. Our nation is engaged in a dialogue on what racial justice and equality mean. For those who are looking for more information as to how this issue is relevant to ensuring our public employees receive a secure and dignified retirement, we have compiled the following
- [Public Employee Stories: June 11, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-11-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines during this pandemic. We wanted to take some time to highlight their work. Librarians are national
- [Public Employee Stories: June 16, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-16-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines during this pandemic. Social workers are often the unsung heroes of our communities. When folks hit
- [New Research Shows How Durable Public Pensions Are During Economic Downturns](https://publicpensions.org/new-research-shows-durable-public-pensions-economic-downturns/) - On June 2, the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS) released a new report that shows how durable public pensions are during economic downturns. The report states that “the debate over public pension sustainability consistently focuses on one element alone – debt – without regard to what is on the other side of
- [Share Your Story: Kathleen](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-kathleen/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rwzilgbI9Y"]
- [Why Pensions Are Better Than 401(k)s for Public Employees’ Retirements](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-better-401ks-public-employees-retirements/) - Did you know that in 2019 more than 20 percent of adults over the age of 65 were still working or looking for work, according to AARP? That is why it is so important for public employees to have access to a secure form of retirement: a defined benefit pension, instead of a defined contribution
- [Public Employee Stories: June 25, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-25-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of our community. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Share Your Story: Ronel](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-ronel/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAVQXlFlzKk"]
- [Public Employee Stories: June 30, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-30-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of their communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Did You Know NFL Players Earn a Pension?](https://publicpensions.org/know-nfl-players-earn-pension/) - Today, NPPC is re-sharing this blog originally posted on February 8, 2016 and written by Tyler Bond. Last night the Denver Broncos won Super Bowl 50. For Denver’s starting quarterback Peyton Manning, this was almost certainly his last game before retirement. Once Manning enters retirement, there is one thing he can count on: his defined benefit
- [Public Employee Stories: July 7, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-july-7-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of their communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Share Your Story: Karen](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-karen/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGNi7kxZQr4"]
- [How the COVID Recession Affects Millennials' Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/covid-recession-affects-millennials-retirement-security/) - The pandemic-induced recession is affecting workers of all ages across the U.S., but it will create specific challenges for younger Americans to achieve a secure retirement. Before the current economic crisis began, Millennials already faced several obstacles in preparing for a secure retirement. According to CNBC, 45 percent of Millennials in 2019 had “less than
- [Share Your Story: Margie](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-margie/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMP6LBIhnTU"]
- [Public Employee Stories: July 14, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-july-14-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of their communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Three Ways Pension Opponents Gaslight the Public About Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/three-ways-pension-opponents-gaslight-public-public-pensions/) - Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting economic crisis, pension critics have been sowing doubt about public pensions by sharing blatantly false and misleading claims about them. This is gaslighting (a form of manipulation in which a person or group makes someone question reality), as their misinformation flies in the face of
- [Share Your Story: Bob](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-bob/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1xtvH3sO18"]
- [Public Employee Stories: July 21, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-july-21-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of their communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [What is a Discount Rate and Why Does It Matter?](https://publicpensions.org/discount-rate-matter-2/) - Today, NPPC is re-sharing this blog originally posted on April 19, 2016, and written by Tyler Bond. Pensions often seem confusing because there are a number of technical details associated with them. While actuaries and economists may enjoy debating the finer points of these technical matters, most workers and retirees just want to know if
- [Share Your Story: Roger](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-roger/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcGtC--UGKg"]
- [Public Employee Stories: July 28, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-july-28-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of their communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Correcting the Record on the Reason Foundation](https://publicpensions.org/correcting-record-reason-foundation/) - Two weeks ago, we highlighted ways pension opponents like the Reason Foundation gaslight the public on the facts about public pensions. Today we’re diving deeper into how the Reason Foundation spreads misinformation about public pensions by examining a blog post they published last month titled Public Pension Plans Won’t Be Able to Invest Their Way
- [Share Your Story: Sidney](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-sidney/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlHmgVbUgUM"]
- [Public Employee Stories: August 4, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-august-4-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of their communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [How the COVID Pandemic Has Impacted Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/covid-pandemic-impacted-retirement-security/) - A new research brief from the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College shows how the coronavirus-induced economic crisis has inflicted widespread damage on workers’ ability to prepare for retirement. According to the study, the amount of working-age households that will not be able to afford their present-day standard of living in retirement has increased
- [Share Your Story: Susan](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-susan/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6TRKPGQk57A"]
- [Public Employee Stories: August 11, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/5659-2/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Unsung heroes: Behind the scenes,
- [Why African-American Women Equal Pay Day Matters for Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/african-american-women-equal-pay-day-matters-retirement-security/) - [rwd align='right' imageid='5727' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='https://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Gender-Wage-Gap-_webfig_01-1-1.png']Today is African-American Women Equal Pay Day, which marks how much longer an African-American woman has to work into the year to make the same amount of money a white male made in 2019. According to US Census Data, African-American women make just $0.62 cents of every dollar a
- [Share Your Story: Kim](https://publicpensions.org/share-story-kim/) - Throughout the summer, NPPC will be sharing the stories of retired and current public employees, told in their own words. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Er5NU64Fjw"]
- [A Look at the History of Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/look-history-public-pensions/) - Pensions have played a critical role in retirement security from the earliest days of the republic, going back to the American colonies offering pensions to soldiers who were injured during the Revolutionary War. Today, we’re looking back on the history of public pensions in the United States, and why it matters for the future of
- [Public Employee Stories: August 20, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-august-20-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Glen Lake EMT’s adjust to
- [Public Employee Stories: August 25, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-august-25-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. ‘Stuff the squad cars’ virtual
- [How the COVID-19 Pandemic Impacts Older Workers](https://publicpensions.org/covid-19-pandemic-impacts-older-workers/) - The coronavirus pandemic is affecting the economic security of workers of all ages. However, it has been particularly damaging for older workers, as it has led to more of them retiring early. Older workers have been impacted by the one-two punch of layoffs and the risk of getting infected on the job from the coronavirus,
- [Public Employee Stories: September 1, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-september-1-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Three Common Misconceptions About Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/three-common-misconceptions-pensions-2/) - Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, pension opponents have continued spreading misinformation about public pensions. Today we’re going to challenge three misconceptions they frequently cite to try to damage public workers’ retirement security. 1. Unfunded liabilities for pensions are crowding out spending on other government services. One of the most frequent claims pension opponents
- [Public Employee Stories: September 8, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-september-8-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Texas Doesn’t Need to Beg to Get Big Business](https://publicpensions.org/texas-doesnt-need-beg-get-big-business/) - Today’s post was written by the Texas Pension Coalition’s Keegan Shepherd. Last month, Tesla announced that it was building its second US plant in Austin, bringing along with it all of the promises that can be expected with the arrival of a large automotive company to a major metropolitan area. The company claims it will
- [Public Employee Stories: September 15, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-september-15-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Two-time cancer survivor from Waterford
- [NPPC Recognizes 13 Years of Defending Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-recognizes-13-years-defending-retirement-security/) - The National Public Pension Coalition (NPPC) was created 13 years ago this month out of a need to protect the hard-earned pensions of public employees who dedicated their careers to serving our communities. In that time, we’ve worked with retired public employees, activists, and lawmakers across the country to defend public pensions. Below we take
- [Public Employee Stories: September 22, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-september-22-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate
- [Colorado: A Historical Look at Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/colorado-historical-look-public-pensions/) - Over the past year, we’ve taken a look at the history of public pension systems in Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Wyoming. Today, we’re examining Colorado’s public pension systems, which play a critical role for the Centennial State’s public employees since Colorado is one of seven states where all public employees do not participate in
- [Biden v. Trump: Where the candidates stand on retirement security and pensions](https://publicpensions.org/biden-v-trump-candidates-stand-retirement-security-pensions/) - Fox News’ Chris Wallace will moderate the first presidential debate tonight in Cleveland, Ohio. Wallace will be asking the candidates about the economy, the integrity of the election, COVID-19, and other topics. One major topic that will be left out is retirement security. For today’s blog, we’re going to explore where each of the candidates
- [Public Employee Stories: September 30, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-september-30-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Why Fair Wages Matter for a Secure Retirement (Part One)](https://publicpensions.org/fair-wages-matter-secure-retirement-part-one/) - Written by Keegan Shepherd, Policy Coordinator for the Texas Pension Coalition This is a part of the Texas Pension Coalition's ongoing series highlighting the realities workers face during their careers and the subsequent impact on their retirement. While these profiles are based on fictional workers, the salaries, contributions, and cost of living data are all
- [Public Employee Stories: October 6, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-october-6-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Kansas firefighters go west to
- [Three Truths Against Truth in Accounting’s Attacks on Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/three-truths-truth-accountings-attacks-public-pensions/) - Last month, Truth in Accounting (an organization with ties to groups that attack public workers’ retirement security) published a misleading report titled “Financial State of the States” which grades states based on their supposed fiscal health. The report deceptively cites unfunded pension liabilities to unfairly suggest that public pensions are a burden on taxpayers. Below,
- [Texas Stands Up to Truth in Accounting](https://publicpensions.org/texas-stands-truth-accounting/) - Written by Keegan Shepherd, Policy Coordinator for the Texas Pension Coalition Like clockwork, we can expect certain things to appear in a periodic fashion. Flowers show up in the spring, leaves cover the sidewalk in autumn––and every year, Truth in Accounting releases a shortsighted analysis of the financial health of state economies. This report starts
- [Public Employee Stories: October 13, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-october-13-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Minneapolis firefighter goes above and
- [How Much Do Older Adults Earn From Different Sources of Income?](https://publicpensions.org/much-older-adults-earn-different-sources-income/) - Retirement experts often cite the “three-legged stool” as a framework for retirement planning, which is that income from Social Security, personal savings (such as a personal defined-contribution plan), and a defined-benefit pension are critical for a secure retirement. How much income do older adults typically earn from each of these sources? Let’s take a look.
- [Why Fair Wages Matter for a Secure Retirement (Part Two)](https://publicpensions.org/fair-wages-matter-secure-retirement-part-two/) - Written by Keegan Shepherd, Policy Coordinator for the Texas Pension Coalition Today’s blog post is part of the Texas Pension Coalition's ongoing series highlighting the realities workers face during their careers and the subsequent impact on their retirement. While these profiles are based on fictional workers, the salaries, contributions, and cost of living data are
- [Public Employee Stories: October 20, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-october-20-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Three Ways You Can Fight for Retirement Security During National Retirement Security Week (And Beyond)](https://publicpensions.org/three-ways-can-fight-retirement-security-national-retirement-security-week-beyond/) - Happy National Retirement Security Week! The National Association of Government Defined Contribution Administrators started National Retirement Security Week in 2006 to recognize the importance of a secure retirement, and it’s been observed during the third week of October each year since. This year, during the coronavirus-induced economic crisis, it’s more important than ever to protect
- [Public Employee Stories: October 27, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-october-27-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Five Scary Facts about the Current State of Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/five-scary-facts-current-state-retirement-security/) - This Halloween, the real ghoul one should be worried about isn’t a spirit, a ghost, or someone dressed up like a monster - it’s the threat of a potentially insecure retirement. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXUqwuzcGeU Below, we share five facts about the retirement security crisis that are guaranteed to scare you more than any horror movie. 1. Most
- [Public Employee Stories: November 4, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-november-4-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Retired Poultney nurse coordinates mask
- [Public Pensions FAQ](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-faq/) - Today, NPPC is re-sharing this blog originally posted on August 18, 2017, and written by Jennifer Watkins. In the fight to protect pensions, education is key. We’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions about public pensions. For more information on all things pension, check out our Glossary of Common Pension Terms. What is
- [Public Employee Stories: November 10, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-november-10-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. HFD kicks off holiday toy
- [Three Reasons Why It’s Difficult to Save for Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/three-reasons-difficult-save-retirement/) - Did you know that, according to the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS), 57 percent of workers have nothing at all saved for retirement? It’s troubling that a majority of Americans are caught in a retirement savings crisis. Here are three reasons why many face difficulty in saving for retirement. 1. Many employers don’t offer
- [The Employees Retirement System of Texas: At a Crossroads](https://publicpensions.org/employees-retirement-system-texas-crossroads/) - Written by Keegan Shepherd, Policy Coordinator for the Texas Pension Coalition Millions of votes have been cast in the state of Texas, and we now have a pretty good sense of what our incoming class for the 87th Texas Legislature will look like. Whether freshmen or veterans, these lawmakers will have to tackle a tremendous
- [Public Employee Stories: November 17, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-november-17-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Three Reasons Why Public Pensions Are Cheaper Than Other Retirement Plans Like 401(k)s](https://publicpensions.org/three-reasons-public-pensions-cheaper-retirement-plans-like-401ks/) - Too often it is claimed that closing public pension plans and moving all newly hired public employees into defined-contribution plans like a 401(k) or cash balance hybrid plans is needed for state and local governments to address budget shortfalls. However, implementing this move can increase costs. Below, we outline three reasons why. 1. Closing a
- [Reasoning with Reason](https://publicpensions.org/reasoning-with-reason/) - Written by Keegan Shepherd, Policy Coordinator for the Texas Pension Coalition Improv comedy is not really my thing, but there are a few principles in improv that I find helpful when engaging with people who bring up negative news about pensions. In fact, these improv rules actually make it easier to have an honest conversation
- [Giving Thanks For Our Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/giving-thanks-public-employees/) - Things are different this holiday season. For our safety and the safety of others, we may forego our usual Thanksgiving gathering. While we’ve had to change what tradition looks like, we have been fortunate enough to rely on our essential public employees. That’s why this Thanksgiving, we want to give special thanks to those dedicated
- [Public Employee Stories: December 1, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-december-1-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Phoenix-area first responders donate plasma
- [COVID-19’s Impact on Public Employment](https://publicpensions.org/covid-19s-impact-public-employment/) - The coronavirus-induced economic crisis has devastated many parts of our economy this year, including state and local governments’ budgets that provide essential services like public safety, education, and nursing. In today’s blog, we will take a deeper look at how the pandemic has impacted state and local government employment. Background Every state in the Union
- [Public Employee Stories: December 8, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-december-8-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Income Inequality Causes Retirement Inequality](https://publicpensions.org/income-inequality-causes-retirement-inequality-2/) - This blog is a re-post of a blog published by Tyler Bond on August 20, 2018. Updated and new information will be indicated with italics. The goal of a retirement savings plan, like a pension, is to replace a certain amount of pre-retirement income during retirement. In earlier periods of American history, many elderly citizens
- [Public Employee Stories: December 15, 2020](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-december-15-2020/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Temple: VA’s ‘Garland of Hope’
- [You’re a Mean One, Mr. Pension Myth](https://publicpensions.org/youre-mean-one-mr-pension-myth/) - This year, the holiday season will look a little different due to the coronavirus pandemic. Unfortunately, that hasn’t stopped some from acting like Grinches and spreading misinformation around public pensions and their ability to offer a secure retirement. Below are three ways pension skeptics share misleading and often inaccurate information about public pensions. 1. Falsely
- [NPPC Team Shares 2020 Highlights and 2021 Goals](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-team-shares-2020-highlights-2021-goals/) - As this turbulent year comes to an end, our team wanted to take some time to share what we have been grateful for, and what we want to achieve in the fight for retirement security next year. Below, members of our staff share their thoughts on this past year and what they are looking forward
- [Public Employee Stories: January 5, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-january-5-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. This year, the holiday season changed for most of us as we were unable to see
- [What to Expect During Your State’s Legislative Session](https://publicpensions.org/expect-states-legislative-session/) - The beginning of the new year often marks the beginning of several states’ legislative sessions. But what exactly happens during one? We’ve got the answers to this and more in today’s blog. What is a state legislative session? Every single state (plus the District of Columbia and several U.S. territories) has a state legislature. They
- [Public Employee Stories: January 12, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-january-12-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate
- [New Research Shows the Economic Benefits of Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/new-research-shows-economic-benefits-pensions/) - Last week, the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) released an updated report showing how spending from defined-benefit pensions boosts economies in communities across the country. The report is divided into three sections that measure pensions’ economic impact: the total amount of pension benefits paid out to participating workers, expenditures from these benefits, and the
- [Did You Know That Presidents Receive A Pension?](https://publicpensions.org/know-presidents-receive-pension-2/) - Today, in light of Inauguration Day, we are re-sharing this blog post originally published by Tyler Bond on February 20, 2017, about presidential pensions. Updated information will be reflected in italics. Just like most legislators, former presidents receive a lifetime pension for their service. How much is that pension and what other perks do former
- [Public Employee Stories: January 19, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-january-19-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate
- [Public Employee Stories: January 26, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-january-26-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Chesterfield Twp. school donates toys
- [Three Reasons Why Public Pensions Are Affordable and Sustainable](https://publicpensions.org/three-reasons-public-pensions-affordable-sustainable/) - Nearly a year after the coronavirus-induced economic crisis began, the U.S. economy still has not recovered to pre-pandemic levels. While the stock market has performed better than expected during the pandemic, too many people still cannot afford their basic needs. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, more than 80 million adults reported
- [Public Employee Stories: February 2, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-february-2-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. When teachers brought free lunch
- [New Research Shows the Resilience of Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/new-research-shows-resilience-public-pensions/) - The National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS) released a new report last month showing that public pensions stayed on solid financial footing despite the coronavirus-induced economic downturn. For the report, 138 public retirement systems across the country shared how their plans performed in 2020. They included metrics like their overall sources of revenue,
- [Public Employee Stories: February 9, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-february-9-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Littleton teachers making intubation boxes
- [Defined-Benefit Pensions and Racial Equity in Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/defined-benefit-pensions-racial-equity-retirement/) - Today, we will be re-sharing this blog post originally published by Tyler Bond on February 28, 2017. Updated information will be reflected in italics. A report from the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) finds that at least three-fourths of Americans- both Democrats and Republicans- are concerned about their ability to retire securely. Unfortunately, this
- [Public Employee Stories: February 16, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-february-16-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [Why Retirees Love Their Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/retirees-love-pensions/) - The financial security that pensions bring is one of our favorite things... It’s one of the most exciting times of the year! Each year for Valentine’s Day, we ask retired public employees to share why they love their pensions. And while Valentine’s Day may have been a bit different this year, one thing has remained
- [Public Employee Stories: February 23, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-february-23-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate our children, volunteer
- [New Report Examines the Consequences of Switching Public Employees to 401(k)s](https://publicpensions.org/new-report-examines-consequences-switching-public-employees-401ks/) - We’re almost a full year into the coronavirus pandemic. Due to the resulting economic downturn, state and local governments could face budget shortfalls of $300 billion over the next two fiscal years. As a result, some have argued that policymakers should consider taking away defined-benefit pensions for future public employees and enrolling them in defined-contribution
- [Public Employee Stories: March 2, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-march-2-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate
- [Pensions Help Close the Women’s Retirement Gap](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-help-close-womens-retirement-gap/) - March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the contributions women have made in our country’s history. Today, we will be looking at how pensions can help guarantee female public employees a secure retirement. Female workers encounter unique challenges to retirement security for several reasons. According to the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS),
- [Public Employee Stories: March 9, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-march-9-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Special Olympics Oklahoma hosts online
- [An Interview with Sherry Chan, NYC Chief Actuary Part I](https://publicpensions.org/interview-sherry-chan-nyc-chief-actuary-part/) - During Women’s History Month, we celebrate the countless contributions women have made throughout history and highlight their accomplishments in our modern world. At the National Public Pension Coalition (NPPC), we’re immensely grateful to the women who dedicate their careers to serving our communities as public employees. Without their service, day-to-day life would look a lot
- [Public Employee Stories: March 16, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-march-16-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. ‘I never imagined this’: How
- [An Interview with Sherry Chan, NYC Chief Actuary Part II](https://publicpensions.org/interview-sherry-chan-nyc-chief-actuary-part-ii/) - Today, we bring you the second part of our interview with Sherry Chan Chief Actuary for New York City. Click here for Part I. This Women’s History Month, we’re proud to highlight Chan’s work as an example of how women continue to contribute. In her position as Actuary, Chan looks after the pension plans that
- [Public Employee Stories: March 23, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-march-23-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate
- [The Impact of Collective Bargaining On Connecticut's Pensions and Budget](https://publicpensions.org/impact-collective-bargaining-connecticuts-pensions-budget/) - Today’s post was written by the Connecticut Coalition for Retirement Security’s Alisha Blake. Public sector pensions are a complex policy issue, even for state and local government policymakers. With most states’ pension systems carrying unfunded liabilities and the private sector, including large corporations, continuing to diminish retirement benefits to its employees, it’s become easy to
- [Public Employee Stories: March 30, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-march-30-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Healing with horses: First responders
- [New Hampshire: A Historical Look at Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/new-hampshire-historical-look-public-pensions/) - Recently, a growing number of articles have outlined the impending increases in New Hampshire’s retirement contribution rates and the low investment performance of the New Hampshire Retirement System (NHRS). Cities and towns are reaching out to Gov. Chris Sununu, the state’s education commissioner, and the state’s House and Senate for help with these projected costs.
- [Public Employee Stories: April 6, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-april-6-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Sioux City police officer helps
- [Florida Should Avoid Other States' Mistakes](https://publicpensions.org/florida-avoid-states-mistakes/) - Today's blog was written by NPPC's Executive Director, Bridget Early. Today, the Florida Senate begins consideration on Senate Bill (SB) 84. This bill would close the Florida Retirement System (FRS) Pension Plan to all future employees, except Special Risk Class members, starting in July 2022. All other new employees would be placed in FRS' Investment
- [Public Employee Stories: April 13, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-april-13-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Shlenker School’s bear hugs bring
- [A Victory for Alaska’s Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/victory-alaskas-public-employees/) - On Friday, April 2, the Alaska Supreme Court voted 3-2 to allow Alaska’s public employees to buy back into Tier 1 of the states’ Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) and Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS). Tier 1 of both systems provides a defined-benefit pension with guaranteed income in retirement. Below, we outline how this case came
- [Public Employee Stories: April 20, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-april-20-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Fayette County’s winter test results
- [Vermont Can Heed Minnesota’s Lessons on Pension Reform](https://publicpensions.org/vermont-can-heed-minnesotas-lessons-pension-reform/) - On Friday, April 2, Vermont House Speaker Jill Krowinski tabled an effort to reduce the state’s unfunded liabilities. The proposal would have required public employees to increase their contributions, stay in the workforce longer, and reduce or eliminate the cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) they receive in retirement. Vermont lawmakers drafted the plan without input from the
- [Public Employee Stories: April 27, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-april-27-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate
- [How the Reason Foundation Misleads the Public on Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/reason-foundation-misleads-public-pensions/) - We have covered the Reason Foundation on our blog before and developed a video about them. This year, they have focused on overemphasizing public pensions’ unfunded liabilities, creating the illusion that pensions are not financially stable and a burden on state and local governments. In states such as Florida and North Dakota, their testimony before
- [Public Employee Stories: May 4, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-may-4-2021/) - May the 4th be with you, and happy Teacher Appreciation Day! During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers and school personnel are
- [Wyoming Report Examines the Consequences of Switching Public Employees to 401(k)s](https://publicpensions.org/wyoming-report-examines-consequences-switching-public-employees-401ks/) - As state legislative sessions are coming to an end around the country, state policymakers have faced budget deficits due to the coronavirus pandemic. To fill their budget deficits, some have argued that policymakers should consider taking away defined-benefit pensions for future employees and enrolling them in defined-contribution accounts like 401(k)s instead. But what are the
- [Public Employee Stories: May 11, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-may-11-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Teacher Appreciation Week: Chalkbeat readers
- [When a “Defined-Benefit” Isn’t a Defined-Benefit](https://publicpensions.org/defined-benefit-isnt-defined-benefit/) - The term “defined-benefit” has been traditionally used as a synonym for “pension.” Increasingly, the term is being used to describe hybrid cash balance plans. While not wholly inaccurate, as we’ll explain, it is certainly misleading for employees and lawmakers to use the terms interchangeably as there are several major distinctions between hybrid cash balance plans
- [Public Employee Stories: May 18, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-may-18-2021/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, public employees across the nation have given back to their communities in extraordinary ways. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have been on the front lines. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our communities. They educate
- [State Pension Recap: 2021 Sessions, Part One](https://publicpensions.org/state-pension-recap-2021-sessions-part-one/) - Following last year’s shortened legislative sessions due to the coronavirus pandemic, state legislators across the country returned to work full legislative sessions in 2021. Today we’re going to share the most significant actions they made on pensions in part one of this year’s legislative recap. Florida Despite what opponents such as the Reason Foundation say,
- [Public Employee Stories: May 25, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-may-25-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our
- [Americans Believe Pensions Can Solve the Retirement Security Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/americans-believe-pensions-can-solve-retirement-security-crisis/) - The National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) released a new poll recently, which shows, while Americans may disagree on many issues, most agree that pensions help ensure working people can retire with security and dignity. Below, we summarize NIRS’ poll and illustrate what its findings mean for the current state of retirement security. 1. Americans
- [Public Employee Stories: June 1, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-1-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our
- [Why Truth in Accounting’s Recent Claims About Pensions Are Inaccurate](https://publicpensions.org/truth-accountings-recent-claims-pensions-inaccurate/) - As routine as the changing of the seasons, every year, Truth in Accounting (TIA) produces a new report which declares that taxpayers across the country will somehow have to foot a huge tax bill immediately to pay for their state’s unfunded pension liabilities. However, a recent working paper from the Brookings Institution shows this is
- [Public Employee Stories: June 8, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-8-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Louisville man
- [Retirement Planning](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-planning/) - When a full-time employee starts a new position that includes a retirement benefit, their employer will usually introduce them to their retirement package in their first few days on the job. During this time, it can be easy for one to feel like they are drowning in an ocean of acronyms with regard to their
- [Public Employee Stories: June 15, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-15-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our
- [New TV Special Reveals How 401(k)s Have Perpetuated the Retirement Security Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/new-tv-special-reveals-401ks-perpetuated-retirement-security-crisis/) - Retirement experts estimate that a worker will typically need to save at least $1 million to maintain their standard of living in retirement. However, many are far from meeting that goal. According to the Federal Reserve, 25% of U.S. adults don’t have any retirement savings, and only 36% of working Americans believe their retirement savings
- [Public Employee Stories: June 22, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-22-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Sewage sleuths
- [New Research Shows the Advantages of Maintaining Defined-Benefit Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/new-research-shows-advantages-maintaining-defined-benefit-pensions/) - An updated research brief from the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS) reveals that defined-benefit (DB) plans offer significant advantages for public employees, employers, and taxpayers over defined-contribution plans (DC) plans. Below, we summarize three significant findings from the report that show why policymakers should continue maintaining DB plans. 1. Switching newly hired
- [Public Employee Stories: June 29, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-29-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Policing a
- [State Pension Recap: 2021 Sessions, Part Two](https://publicpensions.org/state-pension-recap-2021-sessions-part-two/) - Following last year’s shortened legislative sessions due to the coronavirus pandemic, state legislators across the country returned to work full legislative sessions in 2021. Today we’re going to share the most significant actions they made on pensions in part two of this year’s legislative recap. Arizona While much of the Arizona legislature’s attention this year
- [Public Employee Stories: July 6, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-july-6-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Plano police
- [ProPublica Reveals How the Wealthy Use Roth IRAs to Avoid Paying Taxes](https://publicpensions.org/propublica-reveals-wealthy-use-roth-iras-avoid-paying-taxes/) - The dream of a secure retirement is out of reach for most Americans. Fifty-seven percent of workers do not have anything saved for retirement. Voters across party lines overwhelmingly agree that the nation faces a retirement security crisis. However, the richest among us look to be more financially secure than ever before. A new series
- [Public Employee Stories: July 13, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-july-13-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our
- [Government Employees Benefit from Financial Literacy Programs](https://publicpensions.org/government-employees-benefit-financial-literacy-programs/) - One advantage of defined-benefit pensions is that employees do not have to individually manage their retirement accounts - instead, pension funds are managed by finance professionals with deep knowledge of the market and years of experience. And, because of a clear formula, public employees are able to know approximately how much they will receive in
- [Why We Write About Public Employee Stories](https://publicpensions.org/write-public-employee-stories/) - A little over a year ago, we at NPPC embarked on a journey to write about public employees giving back to their communities in extraordinary ways during the coronavirus pandemic. Since then, we’ve collected 500 stories from small and major media outlets across the country about how public employees go the extra mile for our
- [New Research Shows Millennials and Generation X Have Increased Concerns About Their Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/new-research-shows-millennials-generation-x-increased-concerns-retirement-security/) - On Monday, the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) released the findings of a new poll that revealed millennials and members of Generation X are more worried about their retirement security after the pandemic-induced economic crisis. The study illustrated that 64% of millennials and 54% of Generation Xers are more concerned about achieving a financially
- [Public Employee Stories: July 27, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-july-27-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. ACTS to
- [Three Ways Pensions Guarantee a Secure Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/three-ways-pensions-guarantee-secure-retirement/) - It’s more important than ever that every American should have access to a stable and dignified retirement. According to the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS), 67% of Americans say the country faces a retirement security crisis. However, defined-benefit (DB) plans can counter this plight because they produce the strongest pathway for workers to earn
- [Public Employee Stories: August 3, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-august-3-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. 21 moving
- [Understand "Stress Testing" and How it Impacts Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/understand-stress-testing-impacts-public-pensions/) - Today, we will be re-sharing this blog post that was originally published on February 25, 2019. In the past few years, states have considered legislation that would require public pension plans to conduct financial stress testing. While we’ve mostly written about Pew’s promotion of cash balance plans, Pew is also known for traveling to states
- [Public Employee Stories: August 10, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-august-10-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. A bond
- [Why We Recognize National Financial Awareness Day and the Anniversary of the Social Security Act](https://publicpensions.org/recognize-national-financial-awareness-day-anniversary-social-security-act/) - This Saturday, August 14, is National Financial Awareness Day and the anniversary of the Social Security Act. We acknowledge each because they both raise awareness about the importance of guaranteeing a secure retirement. While we do not know the origins of National Financial Awareness Day, its purpose is clear: to shine a light on the
- [Public Employee Stories: August 17, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-august-17-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their communities need them the most. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our
- [How Pensions Guarantee Teachers a Secure Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-guarantee-teachers-secure-retirement/) - The month of August is when teachers and school personnel across the country prepare to head back to school. As these valuable members of our communities get ready for another school year, we can do one thing to thank them for their careers in public service: protect their pensions! The data shows that pensions are
- [Public Employee Stories: August 24, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-august-24-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Arizona residents,
- [How Are Pension Benefits Calculated?](https://publicpensions.org/pension-benefits-calculated-2/) - Today, we are re-sharing this blog post originally published on June 30, 2016. Defined-benefit pensions are the most secure and reliable way to provide retirement security for working families. The key feature of pensions is that they pay a guaranteed monthly benefit for life. This provides retirees with unparalleled retirement security and keeps retired public
- [The High Cost of Elder Care is an Intergenerational Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/high-cost-elder-care-intergenerational-crisis/) - In a recent article for Vox, a woman named Laura shared how becoming a caregiver for her two aging parents depleted her finances. At first, Laura thought that she could afford to care for her parents because she worked as a freelance marketing consultant, which gave her flexibility and the opportunity to be her own
- [How Financial Asset Inequality Threatens Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/financial-asset-inequality-threatens-retirement-security/) - Last week, the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) released a report that shows how financial asset inequality contributes to the retirement security crisis. NIRS’s research examined the ownership of financial assets by class and race among the members of Generation X and the baby boomer and millennial generations. They based their definition of what
- [Public Employee Stories: September 9, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-september-9-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. How gardens
- [Three Reasons Why Pensions Are Portable](https://publicpensions.org/three-reasons-pensions-portable/) - One of the biggest misunderstandings about public pensions is that if one leaves public service before they retire, then they cannot take their pension benefits with them. This belief is usually mentioned by those who say defined-contribution accounts like 401(k)s are somehow more “portable” than defined-benefit pensions. However, the truth is that public pensions are,
- [Public Employee Stories: September 21, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-september-21-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Phoenix police
- [What Bellwether’s New Report Gets Wrong About Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/bellwethers-new-report-gets-wrong-pensions/) - Last month, Bellwether Education Partners published a misleading new report ranking teacher pensions in every state across America. Not surprisingly, given the organization’s past advocacy against pensions, the report is littered with falsehoods and inaccurate information about pensions’ ability to provide a secure retirement. Below, we illuminate the most glaring missteps in their “findings,” revealing
- [Millennial Public Employees Want Pensions!](https://publicpensions.org/millennial-public-employees-want-pensions/) - Millennial public employees recognize that pensions are an important aspect of their retirement security. According to a report from NIRS, 71% of them say they would be more likely to leave their jobs if their pensions were cut. Ninety-two percent of millennial public employees also stated that pensions were an effective way to recruit and
- [Public Employee Stories: October 5, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-october-5-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their communities need them the most. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our
- [Why Pensions Are Critical for Teachers’ Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-critical-teachers-retirement-security/) - In honor of World Teacher’s Day yesterday, we recognized the sacrifices teachers and school personnel make for our communities by sharing some of their stories. Today, we’re going to share why defined-benefit pensions are the best way to ensure they can retire with the security and dignity they deserve after public service. According to a
- [Why Pensions Are Critical to Recruit and Retain Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-critical-recruit-retain-public-employees/) - In addition to providing retirement security that retirees can count on, defined-benefit pensions also play an important role for state and local governments to recruit and retain highly qualified public employees in their workforces. A report from the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) found that switching newly hired public employees from a defined-benefit plan
- [Stories from New Hampshire Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/stories-new-hampshire-public-employees/) - Today we're sharing stories submitted by New Hampshire current and retired public employees. Active Fire Fighter – Mark Curtin Tell us a little bit about yourself. I grew up in and went to college in the Boston area. After graduating from Northeastern, I went to New Hampshire to work as a first responder in
- [Public Employee Stories: October 19, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-october-19-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their communities need them the most. 'Mali deserves to go to Disneyland': A community is working to get an
- [Retirement Security Week 2021](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-security-week-2021/) - It's the third week in October, which means we are celebrating National Retirement Security Week! When first created, the goal of National Retirement Security Week was to create awareness about the need to plan and save for retirement. In that spirit, today we are sharing information on what you need to know for a secure
- [This year’s scariest spook: the retirement security crisis](https://publicpensions.org/years-scariest-spook-retirement-security-crisis/) - Last year around Halloween we shared five scary facts about the current state of retirement security. Unfortunately, the 2021 retirement landscape is no less terrifying. In fact, the National Institute on Retirement Security released a number of studies this year which show that many Americans fear that a secure retirement isn’t possible for them. According
- [Public Employee Stories: November 2, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-november-2-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their communities need them the most. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our
- [ATTACKS ON PENSIONS PROMOTE RETIREMENT INEQUALITY](https://publicpensions.org/attacks-pensions-promote-retirement-inequality/) - This post was originally written by Tyler Bond in 2018. Defined benefit pensions are the most secure form of retirement savings. This has been true for decades and is why cities and states have offered pensions to their public employees for more than a hundred years. Pensions also used to be common in the private
- [UPDATE: ProPublica Reveals How the Wealthy Use Roth IRAs to Avoid Paying Taxes](https://publicpensions.org/update-propublica-reveals-wealthy-use-roth-iras-avoid-paying-taxes/) - In July, we wrote about ProPublica’s series exposing that the ultra-rich are using Roth IRAs as a tax-free piggy bank. In the original reporting and blog post below, you’ll see that wealthy businessman Peter Thiel has a Roth IRA with over $5 billion in tax-free assets, primarily due to early investments in PayPal. In response
- [Missing the Point: Interim Study Showed Much More](https://publicpensions.org/missing-point-interim-study-showed-much/) - At the beginning of November, the Tulsa World published an article entitled Regular boosts to retired teachers’ income would derail progress toward fully funding OTRS, legislators told. Unfortunately, the reporter missed some critical points from the important interim study conducted by the Oklahoma House of Representatives on the effectiveness of public employee pensions in the
- [Public Employee Stories: November 24, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-november-24-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their communities need them the most. Teachers and school personnel are some of the most important members of our
- [Public Employees are Advocating for Their Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/public-employees-advocating-pensions/) - If you’re a regular reader of This Week in Pensions, our weekly wrap-up of the latest pension news, you may have noticed a common theme in our last two editions: public employees advocating for the preservation of pensions. From California to North Dakota, Vermont to Alaska, public employees are worried about threats to their pensions
- [Public Employee Stories: December 7, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-december-7-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. WFISD PALS
- [A Look at the History of Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/look-history-public-pensions-2/) - Today's blog was written by Tristan Fitzpatrick and originally posted on August 19, 2020. Pensions have played a critical role in retirement security from the earliest days of the republic, going back to the American colonies offering pensions to soldiers who were injured during the Revolutionary War. Today, we’re looking back on the history of public
- [Highlights and Goals from the NPPC Team](https://publicpensions.org/highlights-goals-nppc-team/) - It's December - the time of year when we reflect on our accomplishments while looking forward to the coming year. Below, the team here at NPPC shares what we were able to do to preserve retirement security for working men and women and our goals for 2022. Bridget Early, Executive Director: Whether it was virtual
- [Public Employee Stories: December 21, 2021](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-december-21-2021/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. As readers know, on Saturday, December 11, tornadoes left a deadly trail across six states: Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee, and Mississippi. Since the tornadoes struck, public employees across these states have heeded the call to help. Whether they
- [Public Employee Stories: January 4, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-january-4-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. From daring rescues
- [Ted Benna: The Man You’ve Never Heard Of](https://publicpensions.org/ted-benna-man-youve-never-heard/) - In the 1978 Revenue Act passed by the United States Congress, a small provision was inserted into the Internal Revenue Code called Section 401(k). Section 401(k) allowed employees to avoid taxation on deferred compensation. Although the tax code can be overwhelming, a man named Ted Benna noticed the new provision and decided to pitch it
- [4 Important Posts from 2021 We Think You Should Note](https://publicpensions.org/4-important-posts-2021-think-note/) - This week's blog post revisits some of our most important posts from 2021 discussing important pension topics. Millennial Public Employees Want Pensions!: September, 2021 Millennials, defined as those born between 1981 and 1996, have experienced multiple economic disruptions throughout their working lives which have caused significant financial obstacles when it comes to not only keeping
- [NPPC Releases Report on the Pitfalls of Converting Public Employees to 401(k) Plans](https://publicpensions.org/nppc-releases-report-pitfalls-converting-public-employees-401k-plans/) - Over the years, NPPC has produced content outlining two critical topics: 401(k)s and the retirement security crisis and how converting public employees from a defined-benefit plan to a defined-contribution plan can cause states financial issues in the future. In our new report entitled, Fiscal Responsibility and 401(k)s: Why Converting Public Employees to Defined-Contribution Retirement Plans
- [Public Employee Stories: January 19, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-january-19-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. After COVID test
- [Pensions Are More Cost-Effective Than 401(k)s](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-cost-effective-401ks/) - The National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) recently released a report entitled, A Better Bang for the Buck 3.0. The report, co-authored by NIRS’ Executive Director Dan Doonan, and William Fornia, FSA, Pension Trustee Advisors president, is a follow up of previous NIRS Better Bang for the Buck reports released in 2008 and 2014. In
- [Defined-Benefit Pensions and Racial Equity in Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/defined-benefit-pensions-racial-equity-retirement-2/) - Today, we will be re-sharing this blog post originally published by Tyler Bond on February 28, 2017. Updated information will be reflected in italics. A report from the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) finds that at least three-fourths of Americans- both Democrats and Republicans- are concerned about their ability to retire securely. Unfortunately, this
- [Public Employee Stories: February 2, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-february-2-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. All of Haines’
- [STATE-SPECIFIC RESOURCES TO PROTECT PENSIONS](https://publicpensions.org/state-specific-resources-protect-pensions/) - NPPC works with state partners to protect pensions from misinformation spread by pension opponents, such as The Reason Foundation, and their allies. Today we want to highlight some of the state-specific resources created by NPPC and other organizations that can be used to protect pensions. NPPC State Pages – Through NPPC's state pages, you can
- [Public Employee Stories: February 15, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-february-15-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities. Off-duty firefighter rescues
- [Why We Love Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/why-we-love-pensions/) - It’s the sweetest time of the year! Each year for Valentine’s Day, we ask public employees to tell us why they love their pensions. Valentine’s Day means more than candy hearts and roses to us. It means we get to share all the reasons public retirees still depend on their pensions to retire with security
- [The Yankee Institute Cannot Be Trusted](https://publicpensions.org/the-yankee-institute-cannot-be-trusted/) - This post was written by Michael Barry, Campaign Coordinator for the Connecticut Coalition for Retirement Security, to accompany the release of NPPC's new video, The Yankee Institute Cannot Be Trusted. Watch on YouTube | Watch on Facebook The Connecticut Coalition for Retirement Security (CCRS) believes all workers deserve to retire with dignity and that no politician
- [Pensions Help Women Close the Income Gap](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-help-women-close-the-income-gap/) - In 1978, Congress declared that March is observed as Women’s History Month, honoring and observing the contributions of women to the fabric of American society. At that time, the gender pay gap was significant. On average, women earned only 62.7% of men's wages. While that gap has narrowed to around 84% (even less for women
- [Public Employee Stories: March 3, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-march-3-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here is a story of a public employee in service to their community. Wichita
- [How States are Addressing Recruitment & Retention of Public Employees with Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/states-addressing-recruitment-retention-public-employees-pensions/) - Recruitment and retention of public employees continues to be a significant issue facing states around the country. Public employees, on average, make substantially less than they would in private-sector jobs, often putting them at a disadvantage economically. However, pensions continue to be one of the most alluring draws to public service, as well as other
- [Public Employee Stories: March 15, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-march-15-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here is a story of a public employee in service to their community. Living
- [Kansas’ Really Bad Pension Bill](https://publicpensions.org/kansas-really-bad-pension-bill/) - Kansas public employees are facing a bill that would move future public employees hired after July 1, 2024, into a thrift-savings plan and strip them from access to a pension through the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS). This includes some police officers, all correctional officers in the state, teachers, and other public employees. A
- [Stories From Retired Arizona Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/stories-retired-arizona-public-employees/) - As we often say, each public employee has a story. Today’s blog post features the stories of three Arizona retirees and their careers working in public service. Judy Kennedy, Retired Teacher & Administrator Career Highlights: My career highlights include teaching 7th and 8th graders, which was my calling. I often say, "I know what real
- [Public Employee Stories: March 29, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-march-29-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here is a story of a public employee in service to their community. Madison
- [Survey Says Teachers Deserve Better–We Agree!](https://publicpensions.org/survey-says-teachers-deserve-better-agree/) - Public school staff shortages continue to be a significant issue across the country, and Americans agree enough is not being done to retain teachers. While this problem existed before the Covid-19 pandemic, its economic impact and other pre-existing workforce issues have affected public employment nationwide. The education workforce was already facing issues with retention, but
- [Where Would We Be Without Public Workers?](https://publicpensions.org/where-would-we-be-without-public-workers/) - Every day, you rely on public employees. When you drive on the highway, when you drink clean water, when your garbage is collected, or when your kids are in public school, you – and 330 million other Americans – are utilizing services provided by the public-sector workforce. But the public-sector is facing immense hiring shortages
- [Public Employee Stories: April 14, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employees-stories-april-14/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are two stories of public employees in service to their communities. Louisa County
- [Public Employee Stories: April 26, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-april-26-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here is a story of a public employee in service to their community. “I
- [Connecticut Public Workers Deserve a Secure Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/connecticut-public-workers-deserve-secure-retirement/) - This post was written by Michael Barry in response to Opinion: CT can’t afford these state raises, benefits by Red Jahncke and Andrew Biggs, published in the Middletown Press on April 1, 2022. I am responding to an April 1, 2022, opinion article written by Red Jahncke and Andrew Biggs entitled “CT can’t afford these
- [Celebrating Public Service](https://publicpensions.org/celebrating-public-service/) - Since 1985, the first week of May has been designated Public Service Recognition Week, a time to celebrate and commemorate hardworking public servants that serve in their communities each and every day. Federal, state, and local government workers all play a significant role in our everyday lives. From making sure the roads and bridges are
- [Public Employee Stories: May 10, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-may-10-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are two stories of public employees in service to their community. A Treat
- [Give Nurses Their Due this National Nurses Week](https://publicpensions.org/give-nurses-their-due-this-national-nurses-week/) - We rely on public employees every day, and nurses are no exception. The second week of May has been designated National Nurses Week by the American Nursing Association to honor the people who work tirelessly to care for their communities and keep them healthy. They help deliver babies, care for the elderly, and often serve
- [2022 Legislative Recap, Part 1](https://publicpensions.org/2022-legislative-recap-part-1/) - It’s that time of year again! Each year, states practice rights provided by the Tenth Amendment to hold legislative sessions where representatives meet to draft and vote on legislation and policies. Today, NPPC shares state recaps from the 2022 legislative session in the fight to protect pension laws and policies. Colorado: Colorado PERA members secured
- [Public Employee Stories: May 24, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-may-24-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are two stories of public employees in service to their communities. Newark police,
- [Colorado Keeps Its Promise to Retirees](https://publicpensions.org/colorado-keeps-promise-retirees/) - Earl Wright, co-founder of the Common Sense Institute (CSI)—a subsidiary of the Koch-funded State Policy Network–wants you to believe that Colorado public employees don’t deserve their hard-earned defined-benefit pensions. Well, Mr. Wright, we’re here to tell you that you’re wrong. The Colorado Public Employees’ Retirement Association (PERA) has weathered a lot in the last decade.
- [2022 Kansas Legislative Update](https://publicpensions.org/2022-kansas-legislative-update/) - Keeping the Kansas Promise (KKP) worked hard in 2022 to educate members, the general public, and lawmakers about the importance of the Kansas Public Employee Retirement System (KPERS) and secure retirement for all of the state’s public employees. As the 2022 Legislative Session commenced, things seemed uncertain given that the COVID Omicron variant was still
- [Public Employee Stories: June 9, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-9-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are two stories of public employees in service to their community. Bristol police
- [2022 Oklahoma Legislative Recap](https://publicpensions.org/2022-oklahoma-legislative-recap/) - On May 27th, Oklahoma's legislative session officially adjourned. In the 2022 legislative session, Keeping Oklahoma’s Promises worked tirelessly to advocate for the retirement security of our public employees and retirees. HB 2486, a bill sponsored by Representative Avery Frix, would bring all current and new Oklahoma state employees back into a defined-benefit pension system. The
- [2022 Legislative Recap, Part 2](https://publicpensions.org/2022-legislative-recap-part-2/) - It’s that time of year again! Each year states practice the rights provided by the Tenth Amendment to hold legislative sessions where representatives meet to draft and vote on legislation and policies. Today, NPPC shares part two of 2022’s state legislative session recap. Alaska: Since lawmakers closed the defined-benefit pension plan to public employees, Alaska
- [Public Employee Stories: June 21, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-june-21-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are two stories of public employees in service to their communities. City employees
- [Racial Inequity in Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/racial-inequity-retirement/) - In honor of Juneteenth, we revisit the important role pensions play in establishing financial equity for Black Americans. This piece was written by NPPC’s Executive Director, Bridget Early, and was originally posted on June 10, 2020. Our nation is engaged in a dialogue on what racial justice and equality mean. For those who are looking
- [Does Gen Z Have a Job-Hopping Problem?](https://publicpensions.org/gen-z-job-hopping-problem/) - Some speculate that due to the recent uptick in Gen Zers’ turnover rates, benefits like pensions are unsuitable for young workers. A recent article published by the Sunlight Policy Center claimed that younger generations seek “mobility” over stability, a claim not only meant to deter employers from investing in younger workers, but also to deny
- [2022 Arizona Legislative Recap](https://publicpensions.org/2022-arizona-legislative-recap/) - The legislature’s 55th second regular session began on January 10 and lasted 167 days. This legislative session was one of the longest in Arizona’s history, with over 2000 bills filed. This year, the Arizona Retirement Security Coalition (ARSC) fought back against two bad bills that would weaken the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) for public
- [Public Employee Stories: July 7, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-july-7-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are two stories of teachers committed to keeping learning fun, while challenging their
- [Retirement Savings Struggles For Low-Income Workers](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-savings-struggles-low-income-workers-2/) - As we have covered before, America is facing a retirement security crisis. However, the issue disproportionally plagues lower-income workers more than middle-class and wealthier Americans. Because of this, most lower-income workers never achieve the expert-recommended 70% income replacement rate needed to take care of expenses securely after retirement. There are various reasons why low-income workers
- [Public Employee Stories: July 19, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-july-19-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are three stories of public employees in service to their communities: Mystic drawbridge
- [Public Pensions Support Rural Communities](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-support-rural-communities/) - According to the United States Census Bureau, at least one in five Americans–that’s over 60 million people–live in rural America. Defined as “sparsely populated with low housing density, and far from urban centers,” rural areas span 97% of the country’s land area and houses 19.3% of the population. Rural communities often face a different set
- [Understanding Unfunded Liability (Repost)](https://publicpensions.org/understanding-unfunded-liability-repost/) - Recently, there has been an uptick in news articles about unfunded pension liabilities in an effort to make pensions seem like a less sustainable retirement security option. Today, NPPC would like to remind everyone why unfunded liabilities are nothing to panic over by sharing a 2019 blog post written by Andrew Collier. Time and again,
- [Public Employee Stories: August 2, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-august-2-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are two stories of teachers committed to servicing their community inside and outside
- [New Report on Measuring Pension Health](https://publicpensions.org/new-report-measuring-pension-health/) - Recently, the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS) released “Measuring Public Pension Health: New Metrics and New Approaches” to provide a more comprehensive set of metrics for measuring a public pension system’s fiduciary soundness.The Pension Accounting Working Group, consisting of 15 members from various research, policy, and retirement agencies, began their study in
- [Why We Recognize National Financial Awareness Day And The Anniversary Of The Social Security Act (Repost)](https://publicpensions.org/recognize-national-financial-awareness-day-anniversary-social-security-act-repost/) - In acknowledgment of National Financial Awareness Day and the anniversary of the Social Security Act this coming Sunday, we’d like to repost a blog written in 2021 by Tristan Fitzpatrick. This Saturday, August 14, is National Financial Awareness Day and the anniversary of the Social Security Act. We acknowledge each because they both raise awareness
- [Public Employee Stories: August 16, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-august-16-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are stories of public employees committed to servicing their community: How an elementary
- [Teachers Need Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/teachers-need-pensions/) - August not only means back-to-school time for children across America but also for the essential employees that make our public school systems run. Faculty and staff are invaluable to our education system, and in the complicated aftermath of Covid-19, schools are struggling to stay fully staffed. There are many reasons behind the teacher exodus in
- [Three Reasons Why It’s Difficult To Save For Retirement (Updated)](https://publicpensions.org/three-reasons-difficult-save-retirement-2/) - Retirement is one of the most costly expenses some Americans will face in a lifetime. However, it is also an expense that few Americans are prepared for. Today, NPPC would like to reshare a blog on how saving for retirement is so difficult. Updated information is italicized. Did you know that, according to the National
- [Public Employee Stories: August 30, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-august-30-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are three stories of public employees committed to servicing their community: Mr. Fonicello
- [A Workingmen’s Holiday (Repost)](https://publicpensions.org/a-workingmens-holiday-repost/) - To commemorate Labor Day, we are sharing a blog post from September 2017. Labor Day: the unofficial end of summer. The last hurrah of vacations, barbecues, and pools close for the season. But the holiday is more than just a long weekend – it’s a day to commemorate the immense contributions of America’s working women
- [Did You Know Nfl Players Earn A Pension? (Repost)](https://publicpensions.org/know-nfl-players-earn-pension-repost/) - In honor of the NFL season officially starting tomorrow, NPPC is re-sharing this blog originally posted on February 8, 2016, and written by Tyler Bond. Last night the Denver Broncos won Super Bowl 50. For Denver’s starting quarterback Peyton Manning, this was almost certainly his last game before retirement. Once Manning enters retirement, there is
- [Public Employee Stories: September 13, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-september-13-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are three stories of public employees committed to servicing their community: Baton Rouge
- [Hispanic Americans Deserve Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/hispanic-americans-deserve-retirement-security/) - Originating in 1968 and enacted into law in 1988, National Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate Hispanic Americans’ history and contributions and the influence they have had on American culture and society and to consider the future of the Latino community. Throughout modern history, Hispanic labor leaders like Cesar Chavez and Santiago Iglesias
- [Pensions Could Help Grow The Shrinking Teacher Pipeline](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-help-grow-shrinking-teacher-pipeline/) - Educator shortages and vacancies across the country have hit a “crisis level.” While the lack of educators predates the current coronavirus pandemic, its economic impact and pre-existing workforce issues caused widespread burnout amongst public educators. Along with shortages, there is growing concern about the shrinking teacher “pipeline." Better pay and benefits may turn it around.
- [Public Employee Stories: September 27, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-september-27-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Teachers and support staff are some of the most important members of our communities.
- [THREE REASONS WHY PENSIONS ARE PORTABLE](https://publicpensions.org/three-reasons-pensions-portable-2/) - Today’s blog is a repost originally published on September 15, 2021. One of the biggest misunderstandings about public pensions is that if one leaves public service before they retire, then they cannot take their pension benefits with them. This belief is usually mentioned by those who say defined-contribution accounts like 401(k)s are somehow more “portable”
- [Three Ways You Can Fight For Retirement Security During National Retirement Security Month (And Beyond)](https://publicpensions.org/three-ways-can-fight-retirement-security-national-retirement-security-month-beyond/) - In honor of National Retirement Security Month, NPPC shares this repost originally published on October 21, 2020. Happy National Retirement Security Month! The National Association of Government Defined Contribution Administrators started National Retirement Security Month in 2006 to recognize the importance of a secure retirement, and it’s been observed during the month of October each
- [How Public Pensions Weathered the Great Recession](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-weathered-great-recession/) - It was not long ago that America endured one of the worst financial crises in its history: The Great Recession. Between 2007 and 2009, interest rates were low, credit was easy to come by, and lack of proper regulation allowed subprime mortgages to run rampant. As a result, this perfect storm of poor-lending practices collapsed
- [Public Employee Stories: October 18, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-october-18-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are three stories of public employees committed to servicing their communities: Tennessee Guard
- [Retirement Security Information & Resources](https://publicpensions.org/retirement-security-information-resources/) - We at NPPC believe a secure, dignified retirement is essential for all. This National Retirement Security Month, NPPC– along with our partners and allies, have been working hard to raise awareness about what Americans need to guarantee each worker a secure retirement. Today, we are sharing information and resources to not only help raise awareness
- [The Scariest Retirement Story Ever Told](https://publicpensions.org/scariest-retirement-story-ever-told/) - At Halloween, there are spooks and scares aplenty, but here at NPPC, we think the mistruths and misinformation surrounding defined-benefit pensions are the most frightening tricks of all. Dressed in slick costumes, 401(k)s and other defined-contribution retirement plans deceive you into thinking they’re secure retirement options. The truth is, they are more dangerous than any
- [Public Pensions FAQ (Repost)](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-faq-2/) - Today, NPPC is re-sharing this blog, originally posted on August 18, 2017, and written by Jennifer Watkins. In the fight to protect pensions, education is key. We’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions about public pensions. For more information on all things pension, check out our Glossary of Common Pension Terms. What is
- [Public Employee Stories: November 3, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-november-3-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are three stories of public employees committed to servicing their communities: LaGrande High
- [A Look at the History of Public Pensions (Repost)](https://publicpensions.org/look-history-public-pensions-repost/) - Today’s blog was written by Tristan Fitzpatrick and originally posted on August 19, 2020. Pensions have played a critical role in retirement security from the earliest days of the republic, going back to the American colonies offering pensions to soldiers who were injured during the Revolutionary War. Today, we’re looking back on the history of
- [Public Employee Stories: November 15, 2022](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-november-15-2022/) - Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are three stories of public employees committed to servicing their communities: K-State recognizes
- [Reviewing The Basics Of Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/reviewing-basics-public-pensions/) - Today, NPPC is re-sharing this blog, originally posted on January 9, 2019. Across the country, new governors and state legislators will be sworn into office early next year. Many of these policymakers will cast votes and make decisions regarding public pensions during their time in office. New legislators often enter office with little knowledge about
- [Good Gravy, We Give Thanks for Public Pensions!](https://publicpensions.org/7025-2/) - As is the tradition here in America, every year on the fourth Thursday in November we gather with our loved ones to break bread and give thanks for all the good things in our lives. Here at NPPC, we’re always sure to add defined-benefit pensions to the list of things we’re grateful for. From the
- [Kentucky's Efforts to Attract State Troopers](https://publicpensions.org/kentuckyofficers/) - As we often say, essential public employees are always there when we need them–especially first responders. Recruiting and retaining first responders is critical to the health and safety of communities across the country. Many states have struggled to recruit and retain qualified employees. Kentucky lawmakers are now making an effort to rectify recruitment issues by
- [Why We Still Don’t Trust the Reason Foundation](https://publicpensions.org/7035-2/) - Founded in 1978, the Reason Foundation touts itself as a non-partisan think tank that “advances a free society by developing, applying, and promoting libertarian principles, including individual liberty, free markets, and the rule of law.” However, the Reason Foundation’s anti-pension track record makes them one of the biggest threats to public employees’ retirement security. Here
- [HIGHLIGHTS AND GOALS FROM THE NPPC TEAM](https://publicpensions.org/highlights-goals-nppc-team-2/) - Time is winding down, and the new year is almost here! Today, the team at NPPC reflects on the accomplishments in preserving retirement security for working men and women and goals for 2023. Kendal Killian, Executive Director: As the newest NPPC team member, my highlight in 2022 was joining this fantastic organization and rejoining the
- [There’s Snow Thing Like a Pension!](https://publicpensions.org/theres-snow-thing-like-pension/) - It’s the first day of Winter–the holidays are in full swing, and from here on out, we’ll start getting more daylight instead of less. As we hunker down for a long few months of snow storms and polar vortexes, we here at NPPC are getting fired up for the 2023 state legislative sessions. We know
- [2023 State Legislative Preview](https://publicpensions.org/2023-state-legislative-preview/) - At NPPC, we believe every American deserves to retire with dignity. Our priority is protecting pensions for public workers in states across the country. Here is a look ahead at some of the state legislative sessions we are monitoring this year: North Dakota: State Legislature convenes on January 3, 2023. In North Dakota, the fight
- [NIRS’ 2023 Pensionomic Report](https://publicpensions.org/7065-2/) - Last week, the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) released its bi-annual Pensionomics report, which details how spending from defined-benefit pensions boosts economies in communities across the country and continued to do so during the Covid-19 pandemic. The report measures the economic impact of pensions by calculating the total benefits paid out to participating workers,
- [Check Out Our New Video: Pensions Recruit and Retain Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/check-new-video-pensions-recruit-retain-public-employees/) - America is experiencing staffing shortages of historic proportions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey program, the nation’s quit rate is at an all-time high. The decline transcends occupation and affects both private and public-sector employment. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that state and local governments employ 18.8
- [Understanding Unfunded Liability (Repost)](https://publicpensions.org/understanding-unfunded-liability-repost-2/) - Recently, there has been an uptick in the news about unfunded pension liabilities intended to make pensions seem like a less secure retirement option. Today, NPPC would like to remind everyone why unfunded liabilities are nothing to panic about by sharing a 2019 blog post. Time and again, articles are published about states with “large
- [Black Labor Leaders You Should Know About](https://publicpensions.org/black-labor-leaders-you-should-know-about/) - During Black History Month, we continue to honor the triumphs of and significant contributions made by Black labor leaders throughout U.S. history. African American involvement in the labor actions that gave workers the rights they have today predates the civil war. Today, Black workers remain an integral segment of the public sector. Today, we’ll share
- [North Dakota–We Have a Situation](https://publicpensions.org/north-dakota-we-have-a-situation/) - For years, the Reason Foundation has been determined to close public pension systems around the country. This legislative session, the North Dakota Public Employees Retirement System is their target. The Reason for Reason The anything but reasonable think-tank is a prominent national libertarian advocacy organization. Their work covers a wide range of public policy issues,
- [2023 Legislative Update](https://publicpensions.org/2023-legislative-update/) - State legislative sessions have begun. From Alaska to Florida to Hawaii, lawmakers have returned to state capitols to start the work of the people. Every year, NPPC is dedicated to ensuring public employees and their defined benefit pension plans are protected from harmful changes. As readers of Defined Benefit know, pensions provide public employees with
- [We Love Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/we-love-public-employees/) - It’s Valentine’s Day and we’re getting a little sappy here at NPPC because we just love public employees. We often speak highly about the people who make our communities run. From the teachers who have touched our lives individually to the public safety officers we know we can rely on, our love for the folks
- [The Public Sector: A Pathway to the Middle-Class for African Americans](https://publicpensions.org/title-the-public-sector-a-pathway-to-the-middle-class-for-african-americans/) - Closing out Black History Month, NPPC shares the history of the public sector and the path to equality it provided Black workers in the workplace. As early as 1802, state, local, and government jobs were among the first to open their doors to African American workers and–although far from perfect–establish policies against discrimination. Since then,
- [Public Employee Stories: March 14, 2023](https://publicpensions.org/public-employee-stories-march-14-2023/) - Public employees nationwide give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every day. From donating to food banks to helping neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most. Here are just a few recent stories of public employees going above and beyond in service to
- [The State of Pensions, State by State](https://publicpensions.org/the-state-of-pensions-state-by-state/) - What do the states offer their public employees? Here at NPPC, we are facing a few tough pension battles in various states across the country. We’re working with in-state coalitions to advocate for public employees’ retirement security in places like Alaska and North Dakota. And while we talk a lot about the states where pensions
- [Stop Attacking Teachers](https://publicpensions.org/stop-attacking-teachers/) - Teaching is an honorable and rewarding profession, but it isn’t for the faint of heart. In fact, 44% of teachers leave the profession within the first five years. Being an educator means grueling hours preparing lesson plans, rapidly changing technology, and summer breaks without pay, all in an increasingly tense environment. Teaching has always been
- [A World Without Pensions Would Eventually Be A World Without Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/a-world-without-pensions-would-eventually-be-a-world-without-public-employees/) - Picture this—classrooms full of children ready to learn but few educators there to teach. Patients in critical need of care but few nurses to tend to them, or a loved one in a dangerous situation, but emergency services are too inundated with other problems to respond. Public sector employment levels are reaching a crisis point,
- [To All Public Workers, Thank You!](https://publicpensions.org/to-all-public-workers-thank-you/) - Public Service Recognition Week—observed the first week of May– is an opportunity to honor the hard work and dedication of the people who serve our country in various roles in the public sector. We celebrate the contributions of our civil servants who work tirelessly to improve our communities. Every day, public sector workers go above
- [Major League Baseball’s Pension Plan is a Homerun](https://publicpensions.org/major-league-baseballs-pension-plan-is-a-homerun/) - There are few things more American than apple pie, Coca-Cola, and baseball–but while the crack of a bat in the ballpark is a sure harbinger of springtime, it’s also the sound of retirement security. That’s right! We talk a lot about public employees and their pensions, but did you know that Major League Baseball players
- [Unmasking the Puppeteers: How Anti-Pension Billionaires Pull the Strings](https://publicpensions.org/unmasking-anti-pension-puppeteers/) - Since its founding, we at the National Public Pension Coalition (NPPC) have worked in states nationwide to defend and better the retirement benefits of hard-working public employees. Far too often, our state coalitions, and our organization nationally, encounter mysterious, billionaire-backed, independent groups. These organizations are funded, mostly in secret, by wealthy, profit-driven, far-right megadonors to further
- [The Growing Crisis: Public Worker Shortages and the Threat to Workplace Safety](https://publicpensions.org/the-growing-crisis-public-worker-shortages-and-the-threat-to-workplace-safety/) - In recent years, the safety of public employees in the workplace has become a pressing concern. From the increase in mass violence to the challenges posed by political unrest and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, state and local employees, including healthcare workers, educators, social workers, and other essential personnel, face unprecedented challenges due to
- [NPPC’s State Legislative Update](https://publicpensions.org/nppcs-state-legislative-update/) - State legislative sessions are now complete or are winding down. NPPC and our state coalitions have worked tirelessly this year to protect and better the pension benefits provided to public employees. From Alaska to Connecticut and all across the country, public employees dedicate their careers to serving their communities, and our mission is to ensure
- [North to the Future: How Alaska’s Pension Past is Shaping the Future of Its Public Service](https://publicpensions.org/north-to-the-future-how-alaskas-pension-past-is-shaping-the-future-of-its-public-service/) - Alaska. The 49th state, known as the Last Frontier and the Land of the Midnight Sun, is a vast and sprawling world of opportunity. Monikers like these paint a picture of a distant, mythical land for those of us residing in the lower 48. However, the reality is that just like the rest of the
- [Fortifying the Golden Years: The Three-legged Stool of Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/fortifying-the-golden-years-the-three-legged-stool-of-retirement-security/) - Retirement security concerns individuals across all sectors, but it holds particular significance for public employees. As they dedicate their careers to serving their communities, ensuring government workers’ financial well-being during retirement is vital to attract talented workers to public service. Pensions are just one piece of the retirement pie, though. Financial planners describe a sound
- [Hidden Agendas: Is Secure Illinois Retirements a Wolf in Sheep's Clothing?](https://publicpensions.org/hidden-agendas-is-secure-illinois-retirements-a-wolf-in-sheeps-clothing/) - We have all heard the story forewarning us of the metaphorical wolf in sheep’s clothing. The parable reminds us that true character is revealed through actions, not words. In the fight to protect pensions, staying alert to threats against the retirement security of public employees is imperative, and it is not always obvious who is
- [NPPC's 16th Anniversary: Celebrating Successes and Overcoming Obstacles](https://publicpensions.org/nppcs-16th-anniversary-celebrating-successes-and-overcoming-obstacles/) - This month, as the National Public Pension Coalition (NPPC) commemorates its 16th year, we find ourselves at an important milestone in our ongoing journey to champion the retirement security of working families. Over the past decade and a half, we have navigated triumphant victories and challenging setbacks in our unwavering commitment to safeguarding public pensions.
- [How to Advocate for Retirement Security this National Retirement Security Month and Beyond](https://publicpensions.org/how-to-advocate-for-retirement-security-this-national-retirement-security-month-and-beyond/) - For many, October heralds the onset of the fall season, a time of crisp air and changing leaves. However, for NPPC, this month carries a deeper significance. October is a moment to both celebrate retirement security's accomplishments and recognize the ongoing journey toward further progress and improvement. In 2006, The National Association of Government Defined
- [Is Retirement Security Attainable for Americans?](https://publicpensions.org/is-retirement-security-attainable-for-americans/) - Americans are woefully unprepared for retirement. It’s not a fact that’s comfortable to face, but the truth is evident. As we continue to observe National Retirement Security Month, today we’ll explore the stark reality of retirement insecurity for countless hard-working folks across the country. In this land of the free, how brave does one have
- [Understanding the Retirement Savings Gap](https://publicpensions.org/understanding-the-retirement-savings-gap/) - Retirement is envisioned as a well-earned chapter of life, a time to savor after years of hard work. However, for countless Americans, a significant roadblock stands in their path–the retirement savings gap. As many retirees have come to realize, their expenses often surpass the savings they meticulously set aside. Just how unprepared are most Americans?
- [Educational Support Professionals: Pillars of Public Education](https://publicpensions.org/educational-support-professionals-pillars-of-public-education/) - Every day, millions of Americans entrust their children's education to public schools. Since 1921, the National Education Association and other educational organizations have recognized the week before Thanksgiving as American Education Week – a time to celebrate the many individuals who come together to provide the enriching experience our children deserve. In 1987, special recognition
- [Year-End Review: Assessing the Evolving Pension Landscape](https://publicpensions.org/year-end-review-assessing-the-evolving-pension-landscape/) - As we approach the year's conclusion and gear up for the upcoming legislative session, let’s look at the evolving pension landscape across several states. Today, we shed light on the noteworthy shifts in pension policies, pinpoint where we anticipate significant debates in the approaching session, and highlight states that have proactively initiated enhancements to retirement
- [Our New Year’s Resolution: Secure Pensions for Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/our-new-years-resolution-secure-pensions-for-public-employees/) - Like many folks around the world, we here at NPPC are ringing in 2024 by setting intentions for the upcoming year. In our efforts to guarantee a secure retirement for all public employees, we remain committed to the following: Protecting retirement security for all public employees. Public employees are the backbone of this country–we rely
- [Honoring Martin Luther King Jr.'s Legacy: Advancing Equality in the Public Sector](https://publicpensions.org/the-importance-of-job-opportunities-in-the-public-sector-for-african-americans-martin-luther-king-jr-s-vision-for-economic-and-social-equality/) - In the struggle for equality during the American civil rights movement, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. played a pivotal role in advocating for job opportunities for African Americans in the public sector. King believed that access to these opportunities would not only bring economic empowerment but also pave the way for political representation,
- [2024 State Legislative Preview](https://publicpensions.org/2024-state-legislative-preview/) - At NPPC, we believe every American deserves to retire with dignity. Our priority is protecting pensions for public workers in states across the country. Here is a look ahead at some of the state legislative sessions we are monitoring this year: Alaska: State Legislature in session January 16 - May 15, carried over from 2023.Alaska
- [A Good Time for Pensions: Why the Time is Ripe for a Secure Future](https://publicpensions.org/a-good-time-for-pensions-why-the-time-is-ripe-for-a-secure-future/) - In the years following the Great Recession of 2007-2009, billionaire-backed opponents of defined-benefit pensions presented a reasonably straightforward case. The financial crisis sent equities tumbling, funding ratios of pension plans cratered, and it was easy for opponents of public employees to spread doom and gloom about pension plans. To make matters worse, pension opponents often
- [Closing the Gender Pension Gap: Challenges and Solutions for Women in Public Service](https://publicpensions.org/closing-the-gender-pension-gap-challenges-and-solutions-for-women-in-public-service/) - Women’s History Month presents an opportunity to honor and recognize the invaluable contributions of women throughout our nation’s history. However, it also serves as a time to reflect on areas where advancements in gender equality are still needed. Today, we delve into a critical aspect of women’s financial well-being: ensuring a secure retirement through pensions.
- [Pension Legislation Updates: Paving the Way Forward](https://publicpensions.org/pension-legislation-updates-paving-the-way-forward/) - This year presents a dynamic landscape for public pensions across various states, marked by challenges and significant opportunities. In a refreshing shift, we find ourselves in a unique position. Not only does public opinion now favor defined-benefit pensions, but major corporations are also rediscovering the value of offering pensions to workers. With troublesome shortages of
- [Happy International Workers' Day](https://publicpensions.org/happy-international-workers-day/) - “Eight hours for work, eight hours for rest, and eight hours for what you will.” It might seem preposterous that an eight-hour workday ever had to be fought for. But like every other labor victory in America, this right to a dignified workday was won through collective action and sacrifice from brave workers willing to
- [Celebrating Public Service](https://publicpensions.org/celebrating-public-service-2/) - Public Service Recognition Week, celebrated the first full week of May since 1985, is a time to honor the public employees who serve communities across the country as federal, state, county, local, and tribal government workers. Their work impacts all of us every single day–and though we may take it for granted that our roads
- [Navigating Maryland's Labor Challenges in the Wake of Tragedy](https://publicpensions.org/navigating-marylands-labor-challenges-in-the-wake-of-tragedy/) - As the nation mourns the devastating loss of life in the collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, the aftermath unveils more profound challenges that lie ahead. The tragedy not only leaves a scar on the city but also sheds light on critical issues within Maryland's workforce, particularly the shortage of skilled laborers, which may
- [Understanding Turnover Trends: NIRS Report on Rhode Island Retirement System Reforms](https://publicpensions.org/understanding-turnover-trends-nirs-report-on-rhode-island-retirement-system-reforms/) - In recent years, workforce shortages have become increasingly prevalent nationwide, igniting discussions about the pivotal role pensions play in employee retention. This topic has not only captured the attention of the public sector but has also become a prominent debate among major private-sector employers looking to return to pensions to boost their shrinking workforce. Amidst
- [This Week in Pensions: May 31, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-31-2024/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! We have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. You need to know this news in the fight for a secure retirement. NPPC News After a baseless and wildly unfactual article attacking the necessity of pensions for attracting and
- [Don’t Listen to Reason: Pensions ARE the Key to Attracting Talent in State and Local Government](https://publicpensions.org/dont-listen-to-reason-pensions-are-the-key-to-attracting-talent-in-state-and-local-government/) - Tell me, what’s more attractive – a career that provides decent pay and a path to a reliable and secure retirement or decent pay and leaves your retirement future uncertain? It's a no-brainer, right? Yet last week, the Reason Foundation, notorious for spreading rhetoric to serve its own agenda, claimed that pension benefits are not
- [2024 State Legislative Highlights](https://publicpensions.org/2024-state-legislative-highlights/) - Many state legislatures have come to a close, and it is apparent that the conversation around pensions is on the upswing. After years of attacks on, reforms to, and closures of state pension systems have ultimately led to worker retention deficits and subsequent gaps in public services in communities across the country. The consequential teacher
- [The Value of Public Pensions: Why They Matter for Younger Workers](https://publicpensions.org/the-value-of-public-pensions-why-they-matter-for-younger-workers/) - Anti-pension opponents and lawmakers often repeat some versions of the refrain ‘Young workers aren't interested in pensions.’ But who are they asking? Is this anecdote grounded in data? Do young people even know the difference between a pension and a 401(k)? This cliché seems to fit certain legislators’ political agendas rather than accurately reflect young
- [This Week in Pensions: May 10, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-10-2024/) - Celebrating Public Employees: NPPC Highlight NPPC believes public employees deserve to be celebrated daily, especially during Public Service Recognition Week! Delve into our latest blog and check out our video honoring these unsung heroes who play a crucial role in keeping our communities healthy, safe, and thriving. Rethinking Retirement: The 401(k) Dilemma and America's Savings
- [This Week in Pensions: April 26, 2024](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-april-26-2024/) - Alaska Public Safety Employees Demand Pension Reform Public safety employees in Alaska rallied at the state Capitol on Tuesday, demanding action on Senate Bill 88, a bill that would open a new pension system for state workers. The absence of a pension system since 2006 has fueled severe workforce retention challenges, particularly in critical sectors
- [This Week in Pensions: February 26th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-february-26th-2016/) - We’re starting a new series here at Defined Benefit. “This Week in Pensions” will gather the best stories about pensions from the previous week. This will be your go-to source for the news you need to know about retirement security. Be sure and check back here every Friday afternoon for your weekly roundup of pension
- [This Week in Pensions: March 4th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-4th-2016/) - “This Week in Pensions” is a new series here at Defined Benefit. Each week we will gather the five best stories about pensions and retirement security. “This Week in Pensions” is your go-to source for the news you need to know. We launched the series last week and you can read our first edition here.
- [This Week in Pensions: March 11th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-11th-2016/) - We’re back again with our new weekly feature: This Week in Pensions. We’re gathering the best stories from the week about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know. Here are this week’s top stories about pensions: Putting Pensions at Risk at T.V.A. by Bailey Childers: NPPC Executive Director Bailey Childers
- [This Week in Pensions: March 18th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-18th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As always, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the last week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a dignified retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: WRS transition gets OK from Sun Prairie
- [This Week in Pensions: March 25th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-25th-2016/) - Welcome back to This Week in Pensions! This is our weekly recap of the news you need to know about pensions and retirement security. Here are the best stories from the past week about pensions: Women In Education: A Retirement Bright Spot by Diane Oakley: the director of the National Institute on Retirement Security reports
- [This Week in Pensions: April 1st, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-april-1st-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! Today may be April Fool’s Day, but retirement security is no joke. We’ve gathered the best stories from the previous week about pensions and retirement security to keep you informed. This is the news you need to know. Here are this week’s top stories about
- [This Week in Pensions: April 8th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-april-8th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! This is your go-to resource for all the news you need to know about pensions and retirement security. As always, we’ve gathered the best stories from the previous week to keep you up to date. Here are this week’s five best stories: Don’t put blame
- [This Week in Pensions: April 15th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-april-15th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do every week, we have gathered the best stories from the previous week about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know about the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Kansas needs to invest
- [This Week in Pensions: April 29th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-april-29th-2016/) - Welcome back to This Week in Pensions! We took a break last week, but we are back with the news you need to know about pensions and retirement security. As always, we’ve gathered the best stories from the previous week about the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Pension Envy:
- [This Week in Pensions: May 6th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-6th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! This is your source for the best news in pensions and retirement security from the previous week. Here are the top stories from the week: Faulty claims underlie legislative call for federal mandates by Gary Findlay: the former executive director of the Missouri State Employees’
- [This Week in Pensions: May 13th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-13th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we always do, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know. Here are this week’s top stories: Retirement system for state workers among strongest in nation by Jason Stein:
- [This Week in Pensions: May 20, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-20-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! Each week we gather the best articles about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: State retirees to see bump in pension checks with Governor Edwards' COLA
- [This Week in Pensions: May 27th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-27th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! Each week we gather the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: The Millennials’ Dilemma: Pay Off Student Loans or
- [This Week in Pensions: June 3, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-june-3-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the week’s news. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: For Many Women, Adequate
- [This Week in Pensions: June 10th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-june-10th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! Each week we recap the top stories about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Obama's call for expanding Social Security could be a game-changer by Michael
- [This Week in Pensions: June 24, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-june-24-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! Each week we gather the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Defined-Contribution Plans are Inadequate Substitutes for Pensions by
- [This Week in Pensions: July 8th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-july-8th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! After taking a week off, we are back with the latest news in the fight for a secure retirement. As we always do, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. Here are this week’s top stories: It’s
- [This Week in Pensions: July 15th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-july-15th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! Each week we gather the best stories about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Outside Review Says NY Pension Fund Responsible, Needs Staff by Michael Virtanen:
- [This Week in Pensions: July 22nd, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-july-22nd-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As always, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Kansas raid on pensions only worsens problem
- [This Week in Pensions: July 29, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-july-29-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the best news stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Retirement Security: It
- [This Week in Pensions: August 5th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-august-5th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: The truth behind the big money efforts to
- [This Week in Pensions: August 12th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-august-12th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the top stories on pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: MIT, Yale and NYU
- [This Week in Pensions: August 19th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-august-19th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Letter: Most public pension
- [This Week in Pensions: September 2nd, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-september-2nd-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: The 401(k) Is Wreaking Havoc on Retirement by
- [This Week in Pensions: September 9th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-september-9th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Don't make policy based on shorter-term volatility by
- [This Week in Pensions: September 16, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-september-16-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Strong Public Pension Systems:
- [This Week in Pensions: September 23rd, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-september-23-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Public Pensions Are Good for Workers, Taxpayers, and
- [This Week in Pensions: October 6, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-october-6-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Census Bureau: Public pension
- [This Week in Pensions: October 14th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-october-14th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: WRS doesn’t need fixing by Claiborne Hill: the
- [This Week in Pensions: October 28th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-october-28th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Just Good Costumes: Stop Dressing Up 401(k)s as
- [This Week in Pensions: November 18th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-november-18th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Sweeney — This time, I can get Christie
- [This Week in Pensions: December 2nd, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-december-2nd-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Pension Leaders Question if
- [This Week in Pensions: December 9th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-december-9th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do each week, we have gathered the best stories from the past week about pensions and retirement security. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Big Gains for Teachers'
- [This Week in Pensions: December 16th, 2016](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-december-16th-2016/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Christie signs bill requiring
- [This Week in Pensions: January 6, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-january-6-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Pulling U.S. Public Pensions
- [This Week in Pensions: January 13, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-january-13-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Omaha City Council will
- [This Week in Pensions: January 27, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-january-27-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: The 401(k) Failure Is
- [This Week in Pensions: February 3, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-february-3-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Hogan's 401(k) plan by
- [This Week in Pensions: February 10, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-february-10-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Attention America: Your Government
- [This Week in Pensions: February 17, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-february-17-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: A simple way to
- [This Week in Pensions: February 24, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-february-24-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: America's retirees worked hard.
- [This Week in Pensions: March 10, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-10-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: State I.R.A. Plans Are
- [This Week in Pensions: March 17, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-17-2017/) - Happy St. Patrick’s Day and welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top
- [This Week in Pensions: April 1, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-april-1-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! Today may be April Fool’s Day, but we’re no fools when it comes to retirement security. Pensions continue to provide the most secure retirement for working families. In case you don’t believe us, we’ve gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the
- [This Week in Pensions: April 13, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-april-13-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Public pensions matter —
- [This Week in Pensions: April 21, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-april-21-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the top stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s best stories: Alternative Fact: Americans Have
- [This Week in Pensions: May 5, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/this-week-in-pensions-may-5-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Firefighter: I can tell
- [This Week in Pensions: May 12, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-12-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: KPERS needs to be
- [This Week in Pensions: May 19, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-19-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Kansas school teachers deserve
- [This Week in Pensions: May 26, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-26-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Lawmakers are ill-advised to
- [This Week in Pensions: June 9, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-june-9-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Managing Income Adequacy: Back
- [This Week in Pensions: June 16, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-june-16-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Retirement: What’s a millennial
- [This Week in Pensions: June 30, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-june-30-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Don’t let misconceptions about
- [This Week in Pensions: July 7, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-july-7-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: We Can Solve the
- [This Week in Pensions: July 21, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-july-21-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Pension reform not helpful
- [This Week in Pensions: July 28, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-july-28-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Editorial: Pensions becoming issue
- [This Week in Pensions: August 4, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-august-4-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: State must honor its
- [This Week in Pensions: August 11, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-august-11-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Trump must tackle the
- [This Week in Pensions: August 18, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-august-18-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Q5: Retirement crisis in
- [This Week in Pensions: August 25, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-august-25-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. This week the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy and the
- [This Week in Pensions: September 8, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-september-8-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: State employee's view: 401(k)s
- [This Week in Pensions: September 15, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-september-15-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Pensions: a better way
- [This Week in Pensions: September 22, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-september-22-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Gov. McMaster wrong about
- [This Week in Pensions: September 29, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-september-29-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: State gives away $13
- [This Week in Pensions: October 13, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-october-13-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: The Downside of Choice
- [This Week in Pensions: October 27, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-october-27-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: A Week About Saving...But
- [This Week in Pensions: November 3, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-november-3-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Blame Amazon for America's
- [This Week in Pensions: November 17, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-november-17-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Defined benefit pension plans
- [This Week in Pensions: December 1, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-december-1-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: With House Republicans in
- [This Week in Pensions: December 8, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-december-8-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Bevin should take House
- [This Week in Pensions: December 15, 2017](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-december-15-2017/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Governor’s race fundraiser in
- [This Week in Pensions: January 5, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-january-5-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: ‘I hope I can
- [This Week in Pensions: January 12, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-january-12-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Gutting agencies to fund
- [This Week in Pensions: January 19, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-january-19-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Managing pension funds isn’t
- [This Week in Pensions: January 26, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-january-26-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Teachers flock to run
- [This Week in Pensions: February 2, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-february-2-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Take responsibility and fund
- [This Week in Pensions: February 9, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-february-9-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Bevin broke law by
- [This Week in Pensions: February 16, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-february-16-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Not just Kentucky: This
- [This Week in Pensions: February 23, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-february-23-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Wall Street caused pension
- [This Week in Pensions: March 2, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-2-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: IPERS benefits are critical
- [This Week in Pensions: March 9, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-9-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: The Real Reason the
- [This Week in Pensions: March 16, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-16-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Wisconsin public employee pensions
- [This Week in Pensions: March 23, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-23-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: America has a retirement
- [This Week in Pensions: March 30, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-march-30-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Surprise pension bill wins
- [This Week in Pensions: April 6, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-april-6-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Fix PERA, but not
- [This Week in Pensions: April 13, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-april-13-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Ky. Teachers To Rally
- [This Week in Pensions: April 20, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-april-20-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Panic Attack: The overheated
- [This Week in Pensions: May 4, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-4-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: America's public pensions matter
- [This Week in Pensions: May 11, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-11-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Public Pension Advocacy Group
- [This Week in Pensions: May 18, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-18-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Time for politicians to
- [This Week in Pensions: May 25, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-may-25-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Teachers, school districts take
- [This Week in Pensions: June 8, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-june-8-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: We need to protect
- [This Week in Pensions: June 15, 2018](https://publicpensions.org/week-pensions-june-15-2018/) - Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Pensions! As we do most weeks, we have gathered the best stories about pensions and retirement security from the previous week. This is the news you need to know in the fight for a secure retirement. Here are this week’s top stories: Don't jeopardize IPERS with

## Pages

- [Home](https://publicpensions.org/) - Real Stories Hear Leighton’s Story Meet Leighton, a dedicated member of the Department of Corrections for over 19 years. Every day, individuals like him play a crucial role in maintaining the fabric of our communities. In his story, Leighton shares how his decision to stay in this challenging job was influenced by the security of
- [Mike Mazzei's Pension Record](https://publicpensions.org/mike-mazzeis-pension-record/) - Follow the Keep Oklahoma’s Promises coalition on Facebook for pension news, campaign updates, and more ways to stay involved. Troopers Deserve the Full Record, Too. Mazzei voted for SB 1001 (2012), which increased the state employer contribution to OLERS from 10% to 11%, but reduced retirement benefits for troopers and other OLERS members hired on
- [Campaigns](https://publicpensions.org/campaigns/) - Campaigns Alaska Needs Pensions! Alaska's public service crisis requires a bold solution. It's time for lawmakers in Alaska to reintroduce pensions for public service. Take action now! Learn More Repeal WEP & GPO WEP and GPO were created decades ago, but today, they punish public employees who’ve spent their careers serving us. It's time for
- [Real Stories](https://publicpensions.org/real-stories/) - Behind every public pension is a real firefighter, teacher, road worker, librarian, police officer — each one keeping our communities safe and functional. Here are their stories.
- [Legislation Tracker](https://publicpensions.org/legislation-tracker/) - Legislation Tracker
- [Legislation Tracker](https://publicpensions.org/resources/legislation-tracker/) - Stay informed with NPPC's State Legislation Tracker.
- [Alaska Needs Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/alaskaneedspensions/) - Public workers in Alaska deserve to earn a retirement they can rely on--Alaska needs pensions.
- [Oklahoma Public Pensions are in Danger](https://publicpensions.org/oklahoma-public-pensions-are-in-danger/) - Oklahoma public pensions are in danger. Systems are being threatened by lawmakers, who are backed by Empower and the billionaire-funded Reason Foundation.
- [Ohio STRS Is Silencing Teachers](https://publicpensions.org/ohio-strs-campaign/) - Teachers are being pushed out of the STRS Board—the very body that makes decisions about their retirement.
- [Resources](https://publicpensions.org/resources/) - NPPC Grant Application Applications for NPPC’s 2026 Grant Program are now being accepted! This is your opportunity to secure funding to support initiatives that protect and promote public pensions across the country. Application Deadline: October 10, 2025 2026-NPPC-Grant-ApplicationDownload Questions?Contact Ariel McConnell, Communications & Operations Coordinator📧 amcconnell@publicpensions.org NPPC Pension Primer Pension Primer One-Pagers Pension Primer One-Pager
- [Protecting Retirement Security for Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/protecting-retirement-security-for-public-employees/) - Join Us! Protect Public Workers' Futures Strong communities depend on the everyday service of public employees—from teachers and firefighters to nurses and city workers. Their pensions ensure a secure retirement after a lifetime of service. Join our campaign to protect these promises and stand up for the people who serve us all. Sign up to
- [WEP & GPO](https://publicpensions.org/get-involved/wep-gpo/) - HOW can YOU help? Tell Congress to repeal WEP & GPO! Click the button below to send a pre-written letter to your lawmakers through Action Network. Also, share our one-pager with those you know so they can take action too! Take Action Now Share Our One-pager From the blog
- [Our Work](https://publicpensions.org/our-work/) - Our Work Learn the Truth About Pensions In addition to fair wages, reasonable benefits and safe working conditions, every American who works hard and plays by the rules should have access to a secure and dignified retirement. The best standard for a secure retirement includes Social Security, personal savings and access to a defined benefit
- [Get Involved](https://publicpensions.org/get-involved/) - Real stories Hear Becca's Story School districts across the country are struggling to recruit and retain quality educators like Becca. Hear how dedicated this teacher is to her classroom, her students, her community, and her coworkers. Do you have a story to share about your experiences in the public sector and the importance of your
- [Contact Us](https://publicpensions.org/contact/) - Contact Us Have questions or want to get in touch with us? Feel free to reach out using any of the following methods: Email General Inquiries: admin@protectpensions.orgMedia Inquiries: kkillian@protectpensions.org Mailing Address National Public Pension Coalition 1201 16th St NW, Suite 614 Washington, D.C. 20036 We look forward to hearing from you.
- [About Us](https://publicpensions.org/about-us/) - About Us At NPPC, we are dedicated to ensuring that every public employee can retire with dignity. Millions of public servants across the nation rely on their defined benefit pensions for security and peace of mind in their retirement years. Our mission is to ensure the benefits of these hard-working individuals who are essential to
- [Glossary of Common Pension Terms](https://publicpensions.org/resources/glossary-of-common-pension-terms/) - Resources Pension Term Glossary Actuary - a business professional who deals with the measurement and management of risk and uncertainty in fields like insurance. When it comes to public pensions, actuaries determine how much employers and employees need to contribute in a given year so that promised pension benefits will be available when the employee
- [Public Pensions - Frequently Asked Questions](https://publicpensions.org/resources/public-pensions-frequently-asked-questions/) - Resources Public Pensions FAQ What is a pension? A pension is the strongest and most stable retirement option. Workers earn their pensions by contributing a portion of every paycheck toward their retirement. Their contributions are combined with their employer’s contributions, and then that money is invested. After they retire, the worker receives their pension through
- [State Coalitions](https://publicpensions.org/states/)
- [Build a Coalition](https://publicpensions.org/get-involved/build-a-coalition/) - Get Involved Build a Coalition Are you passionate about protecting public employee pensions in your state? Here's how you can get involved and build a coalition: Connect with Public Employee Unions: Reach out to public employee unions in your state to discuss the importance of protecting pensions and explore opportunities for collaboration. Together, we can
- [Be a Pension Champion](https://publicpensions.org/get-involved/be-a-pension-champion/) - Get Involved Be a Pension Champion Are you ready to be a leader in protecting retirement security for public employees? Here's how you can become a pension champion: Raise Awareness: Educate your community, colleagues, and elected officials about the importance of public employee pensions. Share information about the critical role pensions play in attracting and
- [Paula Ready](https://publicpensions.org/real-stories/paula-ready/) - Real Stories Paula Ready My name is Paula Ready and I have served as a Child Support Case Worker in San Bernardino County for the past 18 years. My job hits close to home – my youngest son is autistic. As a single mother, I am his sole financial provider, and most of my income
- [Alan Gordon](https://publicpensions.org/real-stories/alan-gordon/) - Real Stories Alan Gordon Imagine if your governor was threatening your retirement security as a campaign issue. That’s exactly what’s happening in Pennsylvania. I’ve been a caseworker in the Department of Welfare in Delaware Country Pennsylvania for 24 years, helping Pennsylvanians who have next to nothing become self-sufficient. As you can imagine, it’s a hard
- [Pat Knazze](https://publicpensions.org/real-stories/pat-knazze/) - Real Stories Pat Knazze I grew up in Chicago during the Civil Rights and the Women’s Rights Movement. I upheld the legacy of these movements by teaching working-class minority students on the South Side of Chicago. For 35 years, I taught my students that if they worked hard, they could overcome their environment. Despite class
- [Kevin Corvette](https://publicpensions.org/real-stories/kevin-corvette/) - Real Stories Kevin Corvette For 26 years, I have taught industrial arts technology to high school students in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana. This school is a true community, and I love it. My wife is the assistant principal, my children attend the school, and in 2010, I was named Teacher of the Year. Throughout my career,
- [Shawn Connors](https://publicpensions.org/real-stories/shawn-connors/) - Real Stories Shawn Connors When I left a higher-paying private sector engineering job to become a Pennsylvania public school teacher 18 years ago, I knew I would be trading money for the priceless opportunity to inspire students and help them achieve their dreams. I also knew that, while my paycheck would be smaller than before,
- [Gwendolyn Beasley](https://publicpensions.org/real-stories/gwendolyn-beasley/) - Real Stories Gwendolyn Beasley For more than three decades, I served the City of Detroit as a clerk at the public library. In October of 1992, I won the “Employee of the Month” award, and in 1999, I received the “General Employees Merit” award. I worked hard, lived frugally, and I played by the rules.
- [Joeanne Peterson](https://publicpensions.org/real-stories/joeanne-peterson/) - Real Stories Joeanne Peterson I am from Kent City, Michigan and I taught for 35 years in Grand Rapids Public Schools. I was born to be a teacher. I loved what I did with my entire heart, my soul and my mind. My students always filled me with such amazement and surprise. My first day
- [Susan Nicol](https://publicpensions.org/real-stories/susan-nicol/) - Real Stories Susan Nicol I live in Madison, Wisconsin and I am an RN Patient and Family Educator and a certified Diabetes Educator at the University of Wisconsin Hospital. I’ve had the privilege of working for the hospital for over twenty years. I became a nurse because I am passionate about caring for people in
- [Videos](https://publicpensions.org/videos/) - Pensions Recruit and Retain Public Employees Dive into the fundamental importance of retirement benefits as we shed light on how pension programs contribute to attracting and retaining skilled public employees. From discussing the long-term financial security they offer to their impact on employee morale and commitment, this video provides valuable insights into why pensions are
- [Laura Adams](https://publicpensions.org/real-stories/laura-adams/) - Real Stories Laura Adams Modest means – that’s where I come from. For years, I’ve heard stories about my great grandparents. My great-grandfather was a farmer and my great-grandmother was a teacher. When my great-grandfather was unable to work the farm any longer, he retired as most farmers did then: broke. If it wasn’t for
- [Privacy Policy](https://publicpensions.org/privacy-policy/) - Privacy Policy National Public Pension Coalition has created this privacy notice to explain how we use information that you may provide while visiting our website and to demonstrate our firm commitment to Internet privacy NPPC may modify this policy from time to time so we encourage you to check this page when revisiting this website
- [Defined Benefit vs Defined Contribution Plans](https://publicpensions.org/defined-benefit-vs-defined-contribution-plans/) - DB vs DC 1 Pager 2016Download
- [WCRS Monthly Update](https://publicpensions.org/wcrs-monthly-update/) - [rwd imageid='3701' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/unnamed.png'] Sign up here to have our newsletter delivered straight to your inbox every month! Every month we'll bring you updates and the latest pension-related news in Wisconsin, delivered straight to your inbox. We'll keep you up to date and let you know when it's time to act. National Retirement
- [Review of Proposed Kentucky Pension Reform – Summary of Findings](https://publicpensions.org/review-of-proposed-kentucky-pension-reform-summary-of-findings/) - [rwd imageid='3723' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pension-Reform-Summary-of-Findings_Page_1.png'] [rwd imageid='3724' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pension-Reform-Summary-of-Findings_Page_2.png']
- [John Arnold's Funding Web](https://publicpensions.org/john-arnolds-funding-web/) - Pew Research Center Known States active: KS, KY, AL, VA, PA, SC, CT, NH, VT John Arnold has a long-standing relationship with the Pew Research Center and its Public Sector Retirement Systems project. Since 2012, Arnold has given Pew almost $10 million in two separate grants. Pew has used this money to actively lobby state
- [Oklahoma](https://publicpensions.org/oklahoma/)
- [Pew's Public Sector Retirement Systems Project and John Arnold](https://publicpensions.org/pews-public-sector-retirement-systems-project-and-john-arnold/) - The Public Sector Retirement Systems project, a division of the Pew Charitable Trusts, is a well-known source of information on a variety of topics from religion in public life to the health of the oceans. In one particular area though, Pew publishes misleading research funded by shady money. The Public Sector Retirement Systems project of
- [The Reason Foundation and Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/the-reason-foundation-and-public-pensions/) - Despite its name, the Reason Foundation cannot be trusted to provide accurate information regarding public pensions. This so-called “think tank” promotes a radical anti-government agenda that is openly hostile to public employees and their retirement security. They have also accepted millions of dollars in funding from John Arnold to promote his anti-pension agenda. Public employees,
- [Pensions on Main Street](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-on-main-street/) - [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vecRrKZhh-w&list=PLqa1XH6sllcjnxj2PUdN9PoNqE1tncPLb&index=4"] Did you receive a pension buck or leave one at a local business? We want to hear about it! Share your story of how pension dollars help support your community. Public pensions benefit main street businesses creating jobs in local communities across the United States. Learn more in our Economic Benefits of Defined
- [Hear from Arizona retirees in their own words](https://publicpensions.org/hear-from-arizona-retirees-in-their-own-words/) - [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieGgCiNM98I"] [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_wvp9Y90Fg"] [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_YzjV9kS5E"] [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yuIslpvtqOU"] [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJ-cAz_dnOo"] [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1EpB7LBEqM"] [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzuctGkPmlQ"] [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSw9eER6bOI"]
- [We’re Looking for Pension Champions!](https://publicpensions.org/were-looking-for-pension-champions/) - The election season is ramping up—and we’re looking for candidates to show their support for protecting public pensions in the Lone Star State! Public sector workers are not just voters: they’re the folks who make our communities happen. Our state’s firefighters, teachers, city employees, and state employees keep our state running, all while sacrificing the
- [Pensions on Main Street video](https://publicpensions.org/pensions-on-main-street-video/) - https://youtu.be/vecRrKZhh-w
- [The Economic Benefit of Defined Benefit Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/the-economic-benefit-of-defined-benefit-pensions/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://publicpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Economic-Benefits.pdf"]
- [Pension Primer](https://publicpensions.org/pension-primer/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://publicpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/NPPC-Primer-4page.pdf"]
- [How do I change my PERA beneficiary information?](https://publicpensions.org/how-do-i-change-my-pera-beneficiary-information/) - Need to change your PERA beneficiary information but don't know where to start? We're here to help. [rwd imageid='5629' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='https://publicpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/CO-scaled-1.jpeg'] PERA DB Plan, PERAPlus Plans, and PERA Life Insurance Logging into your PERA account information Go to the PERA Web site at www.copera.org to log in with your PERA PIN/User ID and
- [Learn](https://publicpensions.org/learn/) - In addition to fair wages, reasonable benefits and safe working conditions, every American who works hard and plays by the rules should have access to a secure and dignified retirement. The best standard for a secure retirement includes Social Security, personal savings and access to a defined benefit pension. Most public employees pay into a
- [News](https://publicpensions.org/news/)
- [Home](https://publicpensions.org/home-2/) - State Coalitions Across the country, coalitions of firefighters, teachers, nurses, librarians and other public employees have come together to protect their retirement security. These coalitions work to educate legislators, public officials, opinion leaders and the public on the facts about the benefits and health of public employee pension systems around the nation. Select A State
- [Oklahoma Teacher Pension Report](https://publicpensions.org/oklahoma-teacher-pension-report/) - Retirement Security Often Overlooked In Conversation Around Oklahoma Teacher Shortage By Tyler Bond March 29, 2016 “One of my teachers has a classroom of 42. That’s too many students for one classroom to have. It’s hard for the teacher to teach, and there is no student-teacher relationship.” - Madison Reavis, Muskogee High School student
- [This Year in Pensions: 2016 Legislative Recap](https://publicpensions.org/this-year-in-pensions-2016-legislative-recap/) - In 2015, no state moved away from defined benefit pensions, meaning that workers across the country will be able to retire securely. At the mid-point of 2016, states and cities have expanded access to pensions! Below is a summary of state fights to protect public pensions and retirement security in 2016: Alabama - win! The
- [Public Pensions Work - And These Three Systems Prove It](https://publicpensions.org/public-pensions-work-and-these-three-systems-prove-it/) - Public Pensions Work- And These Three Systems Prove It By Tyler Bond September 7, 2016 Defined benefit pensions remain the most secure and reliable retirement plan for working families. The evidence continues to mount that defined contribution plans, like 401(k)s, do not provide an adequate retirement for anyone other than wealthy corporate executives.[1] Pensions
- [Wisconsin Coalition for Retirement Security  Member Stories](https://publicpensions.org/wisconsin-coalition-for-retirement-security-member-stories/) - Behind every pension is a dedicated, hardworking citizen who keeps Wisconsin safe and prospering. Share your story today! Eleanor Ryan September 2016 [rwd align='right' imageid='2598' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/files/2016/09/921-final.jpg'] I am a retired teacher and school librarian. I taught for forty years, twenty-three of them in the public schools. I enjoyed working with children and feel strongly
- [Report: Switch to 401k-Type Plan for Kentucky Public  Employees Will Cause More Harm](https://publicpensions.org/report-switch-to-401k-type-plan-for-kentucky-public-employees-will-cause-more-harm/) - [rwd imageid='3542' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/KY-401k-Report_Page_01.png'] [rwd imageid='3568' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/KY-DC-Report-One-Pager.png'] [rwd imageid='3545' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/KY-401k-Report_Page_02.png'] [rwd imageid='3546' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/KY-401k-Report_Page_03.png'] [rwd imageid='3547' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/KY-401k-Report_Page_04.png'] [rwd imageid='3548' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/KY-401k-Report_Page_05.png'] [rwd imageid='3549' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/KY-401k-Report_Page_06.png'] [rwd imageid='3550' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/KY-401k-Report_Page_07.png'] [rwd imageid='3551' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/KY-401k-Report_Page_08.png'] [rwd
- [Joyce's Story](https://publicpensions.org/joyces-story/) - [rwd imageid='3664' small='0' medium='600' large='1000' src='http://protectpensions.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Joyce-Photo-Circle.jpg'] Joyce Luedke, Maple, Wisconsin Mrs. Juntti was my first and second-grade teacher in Maple, a small Finnish community in far northern Wisconsin. Mrs. Juntti’s precious gifts to me have lasted a lifetime. She taught me how to read, a gift without measure, and to be a life-long learner. She taught
- [IPERS 2021 Annual Summary](https://publicpensions.org/ipers-2021-annual-summary/)

## News

- [COLA compromise: Public pension boost based on longevity](https://publicpensions.org/news/cola-compromise-public-pension-boost-based-longevity/) - A compromise over how much to hike payments to retired public employees would provide different cost of living adjustments based upon how long individuals have been receiving benefits. Called a COLA, a cost of living adjustment has not been approved for teacher, police, firefighter, judicial and other retired public employees in 12 years. The issue stalled during
- [The system is ‘flawed’ when most Americans have little or no retirement savings](https://publicpensions.org/news/system-flawed-americans-little-no-retirement-savings/) - It’s no secret that Americans are falling short when it comes to saving enough for retirement. But as a new report shows, many are disastrously unprepared — and that may point to flaws in the system. Progressive think tank the Economic Policy Institute found that Americans 56 to 61 had a median balance of $21,000 in their
- [New K-12 Workforce Survey Finds Vast Majority of Employees Satisfied With Ability to Serve Public and Job Security](https://publicpensions.org/news/new-k-12-workforce-survey-finds-vast-majority-employees-satisfied-ability-serve-public-job-security/) - WASHINGTON, June 4, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- With schools facing unprecedented challenges in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Center for State and Local Government Excellence (SLGE) and ICMA-RC have released new research that assesses K-12 public school employees' views on their job and benefit satisfaction, familiarity with mutual funds and annuities, sources of financial information, debt, and school diversity.
- [Retirement crisis for women is even worse than you think](https://publicpensions.org/news/retirement-crisis-women-even-worse-think/) - American women are facing a much bigger retirement crisis than men. They are likely to earn less during their working lives, and then to live longer after they retire. And if they take on extra unpaid responsibilities instead of paid work, such as looking after children, elderly parents, or — most financially devastating of all
- [Cost-of-living adjustment for state pensioners becomes law](https://publicpensions.org/news/cost-living-adjustment-state-pensioners-becomes-law/) - Legislation granting cost-of-living adjustments for retirees in six Oklahoma pension plans, including teachers, firefighters, police, public employees and justices and judges, was signed into law Thursday by Gov. Kevin Stitt. House Bill 3350 bases COLAs on the number of years people have received retirement benefits from the state. Those retired for five years or more
- [AFT calls on Senate leader to protect older Americans, not punish them](https://publicpensions.org/news/aft-calls-senate-leader-protect-older-americans-not-punish/) - The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on families and communities across the country, but the crisis has underscored the vulnerability of older Americans in particular. That’s why the AFT sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on May 5, urging him to support and protect America’s older adults, not punish them.
- [Public Pensions Plowed $179 Billion into State and Local Government Coffers in 2018, Study Shows](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-pensions-plowed-179-billion-state-local-government-coffers-2018-study-shows/) - WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Public pension funds helped power the U.S. economy during 2018, generating $179.4 billion more in state and local government revenues than taxpayers put in, according to a biennial study by the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems. Public pensions’ positive financial impact rose 30.6 percent from the $137.3 billion level notched in 2016, according
- [Public pensions are not an albatross](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-pensions-not-albatross/) - Don’t let the debate over a federal bailout for states — which every state is going to need, in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic — get hijacked by what we’re going to call the “pension pariah.” President Trump and Republicans in Congress are resisting calls for an additional COVID-19 aid package to benefit states,
- [Public pensions survived the Great Recession. They will survive coronavirus, too](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-pensions-survived-great-recession-will-survive-coronavirus/) - For most Americans these days, timing is everything when it comes to retirement. At the moment, it looks like those who recently retired or who are on the cusp of retirement may have picked a bad time to be born. For them, the steep drop in the investment markets caused by the coronavirus pandemic came
- [RECAP OF THE CORONAVIRUS-SHORTENED LEGISLATIVE SESSION](https://publicpensions.org/news/recap-coronavirus-shortened-legislative-session/) - The coronavirus outbreak impacted the late stages of the 154th regular session of the Kentucky General Assembly that ended Wednesday. The pandemic prompted the legislature to make changes to usual procedures. Lawmakers went from considering drafts of a two-year state budget to instead passing a one-year spending plan, an acknowledgment of the difficulties of making
- [For Workers Over 50, a Job Without Benefits Spells Long-Term Trouble](https://publicpensions.org/news/workers-50-job-without-benefits-spells-long-term-trouble/) - When the retirement expert Alicia H. Munnell finished gathering data for a study on American workers ages 50 to 62 in jobs without benefits, she was stunned. “When I looked at the results I thought, ‘This can’t be right,’” Dr. Munnell, director of the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College, said. The study, published in October and
- [New Law Gives More Financial Protection To Police And Firefighters](https://publicpensions.org/news/new-law-gives-financial-protection-police-firefighters/) - DENVER (CBS4) – Gov. Jared Polis has given firefighters and police officers killed or injured in the line of duty more protection. He signed House Bill 20-1044 which gives the Colorado Fire and Police Association Pension Board more flexibility in adjusting contributions. That in turn makes it easier to help with financial needs those first responders and
- [Kentucky lawmakers agree to fully fund teachers' pensions without caveats in budget talks](https://publicpensions.org/news/kentucky-lawmakers-agree-fully-fund-teachers-pensions-without-caveats-budget-talks/) - LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) – Kentucky lawmakers negotiating the state’s next two-year budget agreed Wednesday to fully fund the Kentucky Teachers Retirement System (KTRS), rejecting the Senate’s proposal to withhold more than $1 billion in funding in exchange for structural reforms to the pension program. Lawmakers on the budget conference committee are working to put the finishing touches
- [What the Coronavirus Stock Meltdown Could Mean for Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/coronavirus-stock-meltdown-mean-pensions/) - The coronavirus’ potential impact on the global economy has sent shock waves through the U.S. stock market, with successive slides that spell bad news for public pensions. Over the last month, all the market gains made last year have been wiped away as stocks tumbled by more than 25%. That means pension funds, which rely
- [House OKs cost-of-living increase for public pensioners](https://publicpensions.org/news/house-oks-cost-living-increase-public-pensioners/) - OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Most retired school teachers, firefighters and other public workers would receive their first pension increase in 12 years under a bill that sailed through the Oklahoma House on Tuesday. Members voted 99-0 for the bill to give a 4% cost-of-living allowance, or COLA, to about 85% of public retirees. Under the
- [Public Pension Benefit Spending Provides Substantial Economic Impact On Rural Communities And Small Towns Across U.S.](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-pension-benefit-spending-provides-substantial-economic-impact-rural-communities-small-towns-across-u-s/) - WASHINGTON, March 3, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As many small towns and rural communities across America face shrinking populations and slowing economic growth, a new report finds that one positive economic contributor to these areas is the flow of benefit dollars from public pension plans. In 2018, public pension benefit dollars represented between one and three percent of gross
- [The truth about 'greedy' seniors and the 'war' between generations](https://publicpensions.org/news/truth-greedy-seniors-war-generations/) - CHICAGO (Reuters) - Former U.S. senator Alan Simpson summarized the argument well: seniors fighting Social Security benefit cuts were nothing more than “greedy geezers” stealing from young people “who are going to get gutted.” The Wyoming Republican’s memorable phrase from 2012 is a good example of the colorful language of so-called intergenerational warfare - pitting
- [Past time to support our retired public servants](https://publicpensions.org/news/past-time-support-retired-public-servants/) - Note: The author is a retired state employee. Retired Oklahoma state and local public servants have now gone 10 years without a cost of living adjustment, while inflation has eaten away at their income. For decades they taught our children, kept our streets safe, guarded prisons, fought fires, and provided essential health and social services.
- [85% Of Millennials Working In State & Local Government Plan To Stick With Their Employer, But Benefit Changes Could Push Them Out The Door](https://publicpensions.org/news/85-millennials-working-state-local-government-plan-stick-employer-benefit-changes-push-door/) - WASHINGTON, Feb. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As governments struggle to fill jobs that deliver vital public services, new research from the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) finds that Millennials working in state and local government are satisfied with their jobs and intend to stay with their employers so long as their benefits are not cut. In a nationwide poll
- [KY Could Look to Neighbors for Lessons on Teacher Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/news/ky-look-neighbors-lessons-teacher-retirement/) - FRANKFORT, Ky. -- As state lawmakers continue to grapple with funding teacher pensions, some say lessons from neighboring West Virginia can offer insight into whether or not Kentucky should switch to a defined-contribution retirement plan for teachers or uphold its public pension system. David Haney, executive director of the West Virginia Education Association, says in the
- [Report: AZ Public Pensions Boost State's Economy](https://publicpensions.org/news/report-az-public-pensions-boost-states-economy/) - PHOENIX, Ariz. - Healthy pension plans for public workers help the Arizona economy, not just the retirees who get the checks, according to the latest research. Backers of Arizona's public pension system say their defined-benefit retirement plans are doing well, although critics have claimed that some plans may be under-funded. The National Institute on Retirement Security says the
- [Tax Cuts Could Come Back to Haunt State Retirement Systems](https://publicpensions.org/news/tax-cuts-come-back-haunt-state-retirement-systems/) - Although state retirement systems have made a strong recovery from the Great Recession to reduce once-yawning funding gaps, years of tax cuts could come back to haunt states and force them to reduce retirement benefits. That’s according to a report from the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS). NCPERS is urging state governments
- [Retired public employees need a COLA](https://publicpensions.org/news/retired-public-employees-need-cola/) - Service is a special word. Americans grant the word to our servicemen and women around the globe protecting our country, and to police officers, firefighters and educators in our communities. Dedicating one’s life to service requires a special type of person: someone who is willing to put money aside to risk danger, to educate, to
- [Amid budget challenges, state retirees call for an increase to their pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/amid-budget-challenges-state-retirees-call-increase-pensions/) - Of all the issues likely to come up during the 2020 budget session, a solution for retirees on the state’s pension system — who have not seen a cost-of-living increase to their benefits in more than a decade — is sure to attract ample attention from state lawmakers. Since cost-of-living adjustments for Wyoming’s pensioners were eliminated
- [Pension Cuts May Pose Special Risks For Public Workers Not Covered by Social Security](https://publicpensions.org/news/pension-cuts-may-pose-special-risks-public-workers-not-covered-social-security/) - There are millions of state and local public employees across the U.S who are not covered by Social Security, and are banking instead on government pensions as a main source of retirement income. Researchers with the Urban Institute recently highlighted how these workers could face unique vulnerabilities with their financial security in retirement, especially as some states
- [Kentucky Analysis Dispels Myth of 401ks as Pension Saviors](https://publicpensions.org/news/kentucky-analysis-dispels-myth-401ks-pension-saviors/) - Newly elected Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has released a financial analysis of a 2017 pension reform proposal that his predecessor Matt Bevin had commissioned and then kept hidden from the public. What the report shows will not be welcome news to those who claim defined contribution plans are the answer to saving struggling retirement systems.
- [State retirees need an inflation adjustment](https://publicpensions.org/news/state-retirees-need-inflation-adjustment/) - Veronica Kay Garcia wrote in the Star-Tribune's Dec. 7 Forum: "Pension inflation adjustment for retirees of the state of Wyoming is long overdue." She makes several relevant points regarding Wyoming retirees. One point in particular is that there hasn't been an inflation adjustment for 12 years. For your information, 107 is the age of our
- [WY Retirees Face Steep Health Insurance Increases](https://publicpensions.org/news/wy-retirees-face-steep-health-insurance-increases/) - On December 1, retired public employees in Wyoming saw a 12% increase in the cost of their health coverage, which is taken directly out of their monthly pension checks. Retirees receive, on average, $1,600 in pension benefits a month, and Betty Jo Beardsley – executive director of the Wyoming Public Employee Association – worries that
- [We served our communities, now we need an inflation adjustment to survive](https://publicpensions.org/news/served-communities-now-need-inflation-adjustment-survive/) - In the early 1990s, a woman who was struggling entered my office. She had two little boys and an ex-husband who refused to pay child support. I sat her down, discussed her options for assistance and asked a question I asked many young women who entered my office: “What are you going to do for
- [Oregon Initiatives To Revamp PERS Withdrawn As Political Picture Changes](https://publicpensions.org/news/oregon-initiatives-revamp-pers-withdrawn-political-picture-changes/) - A business-backed effort to get Oregon voters to reduce the costs of the state’s public pension system has quietly closed shop — at least for the 2020 election. Backers had filed five potential ballot measures sponsored by two prominent Oregon political figures — former Democratic Gov. Ted Kulongoski and former Republican state Sen. Chris Telfer — that would
- [Pension leaders: Oklahoma's pension systems can withstand retiree COLA](https://publicpensions.org/news/pension-leaders-oklahomas-pension-systems-can-withstand-retiree-cola/) - Some leaders of Oklahoma’s pension systems think the systems can withstand paying a cost-of-living adjustment to state retirees next year. State retirees have gone 11 years without a cost-of-living adjustment in their pension checks, but that could change after executive directors of five state pension systems gave state legislators a positive financial outlook in a
- [Amid Worker Shortages, New Research Examines State & Local Employee Views on Their Jobs, Pay and Benefits](https://publicpensions.org/news/amid-worker-shortages-new-research-examines-state-local-employee-views-jobs-pay-benefits/) - WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--At a time when state and local governments are struggling to attract and retain employees to deliver vital taxpayer services, a new national poll finds that retirement and healthcare benefits are critically important job features, more so than salary. These benefits are viewed as a powerful recruitment and retention tool, with nearly all state and
- [How Republican Governor Matt Bevin Lost Teachers and Lost Kentucky](https://publicpensions.org/news/republican-governor-matt-bevin-lost-teachers-lost-kentucky/) - Matt Bevin, the notoriously unpopular Republican governor of Kentucky, appears to have narrowly lost his bid for reelection in the deep-red state. And experts say the teachers who led statewide walkouts last year are the reason why. Kentucky was one of several red states that saw mass protests last year by educators who were fed
- [Pensions are good for CT](https://publicpensions.org/news/pensions-good-ct/) - As a Connecticut state employee and taxpayer, I feel that public service workers are among Connecticut’s greatest assets — and among the most unfairly vilified. From teachers to sanitation workers to first responders, we care for our children, plow our roads, help the jobless and the poor, build our bridges, and keep our neighborhoods clean
- [Retired state workers urge state leaders to hike pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/retired-state-workers-urge-state-leaders-hike-pensions/) - Elsa Solis, a 75-year-old retired state caseworker, tries to stay out of her home as much as possible, spending most of the day volunteering at a local senior center. On a fixed income that hasn’t budged for 17 years, the San Antonio resident can’t afford to fix her central air conditioner and a plumbing leak
- [Who Goes Bankrupt in America? Increasingly, the Elderly](https://publicpensions.org/news/goes-bankrupt-america-increasingly-elderly/) - Every month, 73-year-old Suzan Benge lives on just $771 in disability payments, $100 in food stamps and $14 in state low-income subsidy. So when her credit card debt hit $18,000 earlier this year, she felt she had little choice but to join the rising tide of American seniors filing for bankruptcy. The elderly are far
- [National Public Pension Coalition's legislative analysis shows gains in 2019](https://publicpensions.org/news/national-public-pension-coalitions-legislative-analysis-shows-gains-2019/) - Public pension advocates had some good news to celebrate in several states' legislative sessions this year, according to an analysis by the National Public Pension Coalition released Monday. "We've certainly been able to move the ball forward in a way that public employees have not seen in quite a lot of time," NPPC Executive Director Bridget Early
- [Letters to the Editor: SC pension system](https://publicpensions.org/news/letters-editor-sc-pension-system/) - In the July 28 Post and Courier, the editorial staff wrote “A vision for South Carolina pension system reform in 2020.” Although editorial staff members are well-intentioned, they couldn’t be more wrong with their approach to South Carolina’s state pension system. South Carolina’s state pension system is in good shape, and over the last couple
- [Guest columnist: Bevin, Kentucky Republicans fail state employees, again](https://publicpensions.org/news/guest-columnist-bevin-kentucky-republicans-fail-state-employees/) - In four days, the Kentucky House of Representatives and Senate filed, heard, debated and ultimately passed HB1. While this bill is supposed to solve the mess created by both chambers at the end of the regular legislative session, it violates the law and manages to exacerbate KRS’ funding issues. HB1 seeks to reward quasi-governmental agencies
- [Kentucky's New Pension Law Marks Unprecedented Reforms](https://publicpensions.org/news/kentuckys-new-pension-law-marks-unprecedented-reforms/) - After several failed attempts and a special legislative session, Kentucky -- the state with the worst-funded pension system -- now has a plan to ease the financial burden that employees' retirements are taking on quasi-governmental agencies. In signing the pension reform bill on Wednesday, Republican Gov. Matt Bevin said it provides "much needed financial relief" and "a viable
- [Kentucky Tries to Head Off Looming Pension Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/news/kentucky-tries-head-off-looming-pension-crisis/) - Kentucky’s Gov. Matt Bevin got his wish, as a special session for the General Assembly to determine a fix for the state’s looming pension crisis will happen Friday morning. Bevin’s office announced the news Monday. His administration has been trying to get a special session in order since the end of the year’s regular session,
- [New law requires Maryland pension system to disclose millions in fees paid to Wall Street firms](https://publicpensions.org/news/new-law-requires-maryland-pension-system-disclose-millions-fees-paid-wall-street-firms/) - A new Maryland law requires greater transparency in disclosing millions of dollars in fees paid by the state’s pension system to Wall Street investment firms. The Maryland State Retirement and Pension System has reported paying about $370 million annually in fees to the firms that invest its $51 billion in assets. But the real amount
- [Concerns over Pensions Grow as Deadline Nears](https://publicpensions.org/news/concerns-pensions-grow-deadline-nears/) - In just 10 days, pension contribution rates for regional universities and quasi-state agencies are set to about double. "It was one of those deals when once again, something was getting done at the very end of the session," Larry Totten said of House Bill 358. When the legislature passed HB 358 on the very last night of
- [Oregon pension reform bill taps workers to help reduce unfunded liabilities](https://publicpensions.org/news/oregon-pension-reform-bill-taps-workers-help-reduce-unfunded-liabilities/) - Oregon's Legislature passed a bill that would increase the contributions of some employees to the $75 billion Oregon Public Employees Fund and extend the time the pension plan's liability will be fully funded by two years — to 2022, information on the state Legislature's website shows. Gov. Kate Brown, who pushed for the bill, is
- [Texas Legislature passes bill raising contributions to teachers pension plan](https://publicpensions.org/news/texas-legislature-passes-bill-raising-contributions-teachers-pension-plan/) - Legislation increasing state contributions to the $145.4 billion Texas Teacher Retirement System, Austin, passed the Texas House of Representatives and Senate on Sunday. The House voted 145-1 and Senate, 31-0, to approve the final version of legislation previously passed by the Legislature in April. The amended Senate Bill 12, originally filed by Sen. Joan Huffman, would
- [Cost-of-living increase for NH retirees passed by Senate](https://publicpensions.org/news/cost-living-increase-nh-retirees-passed-senate/) - The pivotal step to deliver the first cost-of-living adjustment for nearly 30,000 retired public employees in a decade narrowly cleared the State Senate Thursday. The 12-11 vote sends the bill (HB 616) for a 1.5 percent increase to the desk of Gov. Chris Sununu, who has said he will sign it. The increase, effective July
- [Branford RTM approves PD switch back to traditional defined-benefit police pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/branford-rtm-approves-pd-switch-back-traditional-defined-benefit-police-pensions/) - Branford police officers once again will earn traditional pensions after the Representative Town Meeting unanimously approved both a new four-year police union contract and a new pension agreement Tuesday night. Union President Sgt. Stanley Konesky hailed the change, which union members previously ratified, as “just a win-win” for both the union and the town. “We
- [Texas Teachers Closer to Getting a Boost from State](https://publicpensions.org/news/texas-teachers-closer-getting-boost-state/) - The Texas legislature passed a bill Thursday aimed at shoring up the state teachers’ pension fund and giving its retired members a standalone bonus. The bill would increase state contributions to the $154.3 billion Texas Teachers Retirement System by 2% over the next five years and give the retirees a one-time “13thcheck” of a maximum $2,400 by
- [Teachers Are Best Served by Traditional Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/teachers-best-served-traditional-pensions/) - The first public pension plan for teachers was established in Manhattan in 1894. In the 1910s, six states established teacher pension plans. More states followed suit and now the overwhelming majority of public school teachers in the United States participate in traditional defined benefit pension plans. These plans have successfully provided a secure and reliable retirement for
- [Blame Amazon for America's underfunded public pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/blame-amazon-americas-underfunded-public-pensions/) - You have to give Amazon credit. In a rare public auction, the retail giant promised up to 50,000 jobs at a second headquarters, or “HQ2,” and sat back while 238 cities and states tripped over each other to offer the most lucrative tax break packages. While most of the bids have yet to be disclosed, some are
- [Report: Many Charter School Teachers Lack Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/news/report-many-charter-school-teachers-lack-retirement-security/) - Washington, DC – A report released today by the National Public Pension Coalition found that charter schools in certain states are not providing an adequate retirement for their teachers. When charter schools opt out of public pension plans, they instead force teachers into risky 401(k) plans or don’t offer a retirement plan at all. The
- [A Week About Saving...But Are We?](https://publicpensions.org/news/a-week-about-saving-but-are-we/) - Today ends the week known as National Retirement Security Week. Although the week started in 2006 as a week to raise awareness about the importance of saving for retirement, progress since then suggests the more apt title for the week should be National Retirement (In)Security Week. Many Americans have no savings at all for retirement,
- [The Downside of Choice](https://publicpensions.org/news/the-downside-of-choice/) - Who doesn’t love choice? Chocolate or vanilla? Cheese or pepperoni? Boutique fitness studios have popped up everywhere so no matter what your preferred workout, you can have it. Lawmakers in some states like Michigan, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Indiana have co-opted our national love of choice as their preferred method to attack retirement security. Although a
- [Good Jobs First Report Questions Corporate Tax Giveaways Instead of Full Pension Funding](https://publicpensions.org/news/good-jobs-first-report-questions-corporate-tax-giveaways-instead-full-pension-funding/) - Washington, DC – Public pensions are one of the hottest topics in statehouses across the country. Good Jobs First, a non-profit, non-partisan research center focusing on economic development accountability recently released a report entitled, “Putting State Pension Costs in Context.” The report can be found here.
- [Good Jobs First Report Reveals Massive Corporate Tax Giveaways in Kentucky](https://publicpensions.org/news/good-jobs-first-report-reveals-massive-corporate-tax-giveaways-kentucky/) - LEXINGTON –A study released today finds that Kentucky gives away massive tax breaks to corporations, while continuing to underfund retirement security for hard-working public employees. The amount given to corporations far exceeds what the state owes to keep its pension plans funded on a yearly basis. That is true even before a new wave of
- [PFM Is Abhorrently Wrong On Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/pfm-abhorrently-wrong-pensions/) - LEXINGTON – Today, the Kentucky Public Pension Coalition (KPPC) expressed disappointment that PFM used its Pension Performance and Best Practices Analysis to promote Governor Bevin’s political agenda, rather than to offer constructive solutions for Kentucky’s pension systems. PFM’s 401(k) “solution” has been tried and failed in other states.
- [Q5: Retirement crisis in America cause for concern](https://publicpensions.org/news/q5-retirement-crisis-america-cause-concern/) - Bailey Childers is executive director of the National Public Pension Coalition. In this Quick 5 interview, she talks about the retirement crisis in the U.S.
- [Trump must tackle the financial issues of Main Street Americans](https://publicpensions.org/news/trump-must-tackle-financial-issues-main-street-americans/) - More than 200 days into Donald Trump’s presidency, we now have a clear answer on whom his administration will serve: Wall Street and corporations. Gone are his promises from the campaign trail to help struggling American families. At every opportunity, his administration has rolled back any small progress that’s been made over the last few
- [We Can Solve the Retirement Crisis - Just Not With 401(K) Plans](https://publicpensions.org/news/can-solve-retirement-crisis-just-not-401k-plans/) - If you’re reading this article, there’s about a fifty percent chance you are not offered a retirement plan through your current employer. That’s according to studies from the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) and Pew, which estimate that almost half of working Americans do not have access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan.
- [Public Pensions Provide a Secure Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-pensions-provide-secure-retirement/) - For a decade now since the Great Recession, special interests have waged a false-information campaign against public pensions. While not all of the motives are clear, one thing is certain: if the over $3.8 trillion in assets managed by state and local pension funds were converted into individual 401(k)-style accounts, someone on Wall Street would stand to
- [Don’t let misconceptions about pensions drive decision-making](https://publicpensions.org/news/dont-let-misconceptions-pensions-drive-decision-making/) - The June 19 editorial “A smart step on pensions” said Pennsylvania’s new law on pensions would give most new state employees a choice of “three retirement savings options similar, in varying degrees, to the defined-contribution plans common in the private sector.” But two of the options are based on a defined-benefit model with a 401(k)-style
- [Retirement: What’s a millennial to do?](https://publicpensions.org/news/retirement-whats-millennial/) - I remember those first few real paychecks when I got out of college. It felt like I had all the money in the world! I got a cheap apartment near the Susquehanna River in Harrisburg, I could go out with my friends after work, even take weekend trips down to DC every now and then.
- [Trump’s budget calls for hits on federal employee retirement security](https://publicpensions.org/news/trump-cuts-pension-system-disaster-anyone-plans-retire-someday/) - Washington, DC - According to the Washington Post, the budget proposal that President Trump is scheduled to release on Tuesday would undermine the retirement security of federal employees. The proposed budget would require federal employees to pay more out-of-pocket for their retirement benefits, while also diminishing their overall retirement benefits.
- [Don’t Fall for Mackinac Center’s Window Dressing](https://publicpensions.org/news/dont-fall-mackinac-centers-window-dressing/) - Recently, the Mackinac Center for Public Policy — a right-wing think tank funded heavily by the Koch brothers — penned an article attacking the Michigan Office of Retirement Services (ORS) for recent accounting errors. While the errors were real, the alleged inability of the agency to ably handle Michigan’s state-run pension systems was greatly overblown.
- [Alternative Fact: Americans Have Great Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/news/alternative-fact-americans-great-retirement-security/) - Washington today is divided. One could say that many of our states are divided as well. With so many marquee issues on the line over the next few years — tax reform, healthcare, Social Security, Medicare — there is one topic both parties can agree on: Americans are not fully prepared for retirement.
- [Public Pensions Matter — Just Ask Michigan And West Virginia](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-pensions-matter-just-ask-michigan-west-virginia/) - If you want a good history lesson, look no further than the Rust Belt. Beyond the relics of America’s industries are hardworking Americans serving as living reminders of the devastating consequences of what happens when cities and states close a public pension plan. In West Virginia and Michigan in particular, you’ll find two narratives about
- [Public pensions matter - just ask Michigan and West Virginia](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-pensions-matter-just-ask-michigan-west-virginia-2/) - If you want a good history lesson, look no further than the Rust Belt. Beyond the relics of America’s industries are hardworking Americans serving as living reminders of the devastating consequences of what happens when cities and states close a public pension plan. In West Virginia and Michigan in particular, you’ll find two narratives about
- [Why Pensions Matter Report Reveals Need for Pensions across the United States](https://publicpensions.org/news/pensions-matter-report-reveals-need-pensions-across-united-states/) - Washington, DC - This week, the National Public Pension Coalition released a new report titled Why Pensions Matter, a comprehensive examination of the origins and importance of public pensions. The report examines how public pensions have developed over time, as well as the ways in which pensions help to combat a growing retirement crisis throughout
- [Pensions Are Not Pots of Gold For Irresponsible Lawmakers](https://publicpensions.org/news/pensions-not-pot-of-gold/) - Pensions might look like a pot of gold to politicians right now, but they should go follow another rainbow if they want extra funds to pay state bills. Public pension funds need to stay right where they are.
- [Pensions are not pots of gold for irresponsible lawmakers](https://publicpensions.org/news/pensions-not-pots-gold-irresponsible-lawmakers/) - Pensions might look like a pot of gold to politicians right now, but they should go follow another rainbow if they want extra funds to pay state bills. Public pension funds need to stay right where they are. Public pensions are in a good place. A recent study from NCPERS found that pension funding levels went up
- [Attention America: Your Government is Being Run by Billionaires](https://publicpensions.org/news/attention-america-government-run-billionaires/) - As Americans across the country struggle with stagnating wages, increasing costs of education, and dire prospects for a secure retirement, they should ask themselves if the billionaires taking over our government in Washington and behind the scenes in the states are really serving their best interests. When it comes to Betsy DeVos and John Arnold,
- [Pulling U.S. Public Pensions Back from the Brink](https://publicpensions.org/news/pulling-us-public-pensions-back-from-the-brink/) - "We're seeing more and more communities take steps to protect public pensions, and it's a trend that has largely fallen under the radar," says Bailey Childers, executive director of the National Public Pension Coalition. Most public pension funds have increased employee and employer contributions to help counteract the hit of U.S. equity markets' 40 percent drawdown
- [Just Good Costumes: Stop Dressing Up 401(k)s as Good Alternatives to Pensions!](https://publicpensions.org/news/just-good-costumes-stop-dressing-401ks-good-alternatives-pensions/) - This Halloween, forget about monsters, witches, and Donald Trumps. Something more dangerous lurks in the night – and it’s not your usual ghoul. Since the 1980s, defined contribution 401(k) plans have been dressed up as good alternatives for retirement savings. For more than three decades, the private sector has been pushing these risky accounts, depriving
- [Public Pensions Are Good For Workers, Taxpayers, And The Economy](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-pensions-good-workers-taxpayers-economy/) - Contrary to popular belief, defined benefit pensions are not only good for workers and taxpayers, they’re also good for the economy, generating significant amounts of economic activity nationally each year. According to a report released by the National Institute on Retirement Security, state and local public pension plans paid $253 billion to 9.6 million retirees
- [Strong Public Pension Systems: North Carolina’s Unlikely Claim To Fame](https://publicpensions.org/news/strong-public-pension-systems-north-carolinas-unlikely-claim-fame/) - North Carolina is known for a lot of things. Controversial voter ID laws. Duke basketball and Tar Heel basketball. Kitty Hawk. I have an unlikely suspect to add to the list: North Carolina has one of the strongest public pension systems in the country that serves teachers, firefighters, police officers and tens of thousands of
- [Don't make policy based on shorter-term volatility](https://publicpensions.org/news/dont-make-policy-based-shorter-term-volatility/) - In investing as in most of life, it is human nature to worry about the future. Public pensions have long been an antidote to worry, providing teachers, firefighters, police officers and other public servants with assurance that they will have a modest but secure stream of income during retirement. After all, they are called defined
- [Top Universities Sued Because 401(k)-Style Retirement Plans Provide Less Bang for the Retirement Buck](https://publicpensions.org/news/top-universities-sued-401k-style-retirement-plans-provide-less-bang-retirement-buck/) - Earlier this week, MIT, Yale, and New York University were sued because their 401(k)-style retirement plans have had excessive fees and provided employees with a bewildering array of often-low-quality investment options. The Universities, in effect, allowed the transfer of a significant share of their employees' potential retirement benefits to Wall Street.
- [2016 Mid-Year Federal & State Legislation Update Webcast](https://publicpensions.org/news/2370/)
- [Kansas raid on pensions only worsens problem](https://publicpensions.org/news/kansas-raid-pensions-worsens-problem/) - Forbes called it “fiscal snake oil.” The New York Times editorial board: “ruinous.” Late night talk show host Seth Meyers weighed in saying: “Even when you buy couch cleaner, they tell you to try it on a small patch of fabric first and that’s what happened here. Kansas was the small patch of fabric, and
- [It’s time for our retirement security to declare independence from 401(k)s](https://publicpensions.org/news/time-retirement-security-declare-independence-401ks/) - News of the “Brexit” vote trickled over the Atlantic Ocean late in the evening last Thursday. By Friday morning, Facebook and other social media sites were overflowing with questions about what this meant for the U.K., what this meant for Europe, and what this meant here at home. And amid those questions were nervous investors
- [The Millennials’ Dilemma: Pay Off Student Loans or Save for Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/news/millennials-dilemma-pay-off-student-loans-save-retirement/) - It’s no secret that our nation is facing a student debt crisis. You don’t need me to tell you that more and more people are graduating with burdensome student loan debt levels that force them to rely on credit cards, put off buying a home and perhaps even live at home with mom and dad
- [Principales sindicatos demandan cambios al proyecto republicano](https://publicpensions.org/news/principales-sindicatos-demandan-cambios-al-proyecto-republicano/) - Poderosos grupos sindicales, la Coalición Nacional de Pensiones Públicas y la red religiosa Jubilee USA abogaron hoy por enmiendas al proyecto que impondría una junta federal de control fiscal por encima del gobierno de Puerto Rico. Las uniones AFL-CIO, Sindicato Internacional de Empleados de Servicio (SEIU), de las Industrias Automovilística, Aeroespacial y Agrícola (UAW), la Federación
- [The dire US pension funding gap is a politically driven estimate](https://publicpensions.org/news/dire-us-pension-funding-gap-politically-driven-estimate/) - Low balling projected rates of return on public pension plans is a sure-fire way for critics to paint a needlessly dire picture of US cities and states collapsing under the weight of their promises to police, fire fighters and teachers. The reality is not so ominous. Applying indefensibly low rates of return to pensions over
- [Why we must protect the retirement security of Puerto Ricans](https://publicpensions.org/news/must-protect-retirement-security-puerto-ricans/) - Among the many complex issues in Puerto Rico’s dire financial situation—the Island owes a staggering $73 billion in debt—is how to treat the pension obligations owed to the more than 100,000 retirees and 125,000 active members in the Puerto Rico Government Employee’s Retirement System (PRGERS). Hedge fund managers who gambled on Puerto Rico, paying 30
- [Don't Penalize Poor, Retired Puerto Ricans](https://publicpensions.org/news/dont-penalize-poor-retired-puerto-ricans/) - Your editorial “Puerto Rico’s Pension Bailout” (April 13) appropriately outlines the dire financial situation in Puerto Rico; however, it comes to the wrong conclusion about what should be done. There is plenty of blame to go around—from failed political leadership to vulture hedge-fund managers who sought to make a quick buck on the backs of
- [Kansas needs to invest back in its people](https://publicpensions.org/news/kansas-needs-invest-back-people/) - Forbes called it “fiscal snake oil.” The New York Times editorial board: “ruinous.” Just a few weeks ago, late night talk show host Seth Meyers weighed in, “Even when you buy couch cleaner, they tell you to try it on a small patch of fabric first and that’s what happened here. Kansas was the small
- [Equal Pay Day represents gap between women, men: Guest commentary](https://publicpensions.org/news/equal-pay-day-represents-gap-women-men-guest-commentary/) - For 26 years, residents in Los Angeles who dialed 911 to report an emergency might have found Jeanetta Adams on the other end of the line. Jeanetta began her career with the city of Los Angeles as a clerk-typist in November 1973. She was quickly promoted and five years later she was promoted again to
- [Don’t put blame on retired workers](https://publicpensions.org/news/dont-put-blame-retired-workers/) - Retirement security is not something to gamble with. It is an issue that affects all Americans. Everyone must be able to retire with dignity and that should be protected and expanded, not reduced or eliminated. The Review-Journal’s March 30 editorial, “Time is ripe for pension reform,” blames hard-working teachers, firefighters and nurses when in reality
- [Putting Pensions at Risk at T.V.A.](https://publicpensions.org/news/putting-pensions-risk-t-v/) - To the Editor: Re “The Last Pension Domino” (Business Day, March 4): It is deeply troubling that the Tennessee Valley Authority’s chief executive, William D. Johnson, is declaring war on his employees’ retirement savings while he takes home the highest compensation of any federal employee in the country ($6.4 million, according to your article). The
- [The Big Short and Your Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/news/the-big-short-and-your-retirement/) - "What we learned in The Big Short is that shady financial schemes and little to no oversight led to economic ruin. After years of reckless behavior by bankers and brokers -- as Ryan Gosling's character says -- "only one single banker went to jail" while taxpaying families were left to pick up the pieces. "Our
- [Meet the Two Californians Who Want You to Work Forever](https://publicpensions.org/news/meet-the-two-californians-who-want-you-to-work-forever/) - Last week in California, Chuck Reed and Carl DeMaio announced that they would no longer move forward with a measure to gut retirement security for hundreds of thousands of hard-working California firefighters, nurses, and social workers. Their stated reason for postponing the measure until 2018 is laughable. The fact is, on all fronts, they lack
- [The 'Star Wars' theory of retirement](https://publicpensions.org/news/the-star-wars-theory-of-retirement/) - The undeniable box office success of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" goes beyond the $529 million it grossed during opening weekend: Economists say it was probably responsible for many of the 15,000 jobs added in the movie industry in December. They were part of a strong finish to 2015, which was highlighted in President Obama's
- [The Year in Retirement Security: A Look Back at 2015](https://publicpensions.org/news/year-retirement-security-look-back-2015/) - For years firefighters, nurses, teachers, social workers, roads crews and others across the country have paid a percentage of their salary toward their retirement security. Notably, in Illinois and New Jersey irresponsible politicians did not do the same. Instead, they skipped or reduced annually required contributions to their pension systems.
- [America, We Need to Talk About 401(k)s](https://publicpensions.org/news/america-we-need-to-talk-about-401ks/) - America is facing a retirement crisis. If you live and work in this country, you already know that and feel it as you and your family wonder how you're going to prepare for the future. But the cause of this crisis may not be what you think. Over the last few decades, there has been
- [Five Reasons Why Traditional Pensions Are Still the Best Way to Provide Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/news/five-reasons-why-traditional-pensions-are-still-the-best-way-to-provide-retirement-security/) - This week, America is celebrating National Save for Retirement Week, established by Congress to raise public awareness about the importance of putting money aside for our golden years. For decades, traditional pensions, or defined benefit plans, have been the retirement savings tool of choice for employers in the public and private sector, and they continue
- [Bevin plan would further endanger state pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/bevin-plan-would-further-endanger-state-pensions/) - Republican candidate Matt Bevin has made public-pension reform a centerpiece of his gubernatorial bid, promising to dismantle Kentucky's pension systems in a misguided attempt to cure the state's financial ills.
- [Why GOP candidates won't talk about retirement](https://publicpensions.org/news/why-gop-candidates-wont-talk-about-retirement-2/) - Americans don’t have to look very far to know the country is facing a retirement crisis. For most of us, a quick check of our own retirement account should do the trick. Or a glance at the newspaper. So why is it that as presidential campaigns heat up, we haven’t heard much about the retirement
- [Why Is an Enron Billionaire Trying to Keep Teachers From Retiring?](https://publicpensions.org/news/why-is-an-enron-billionaire-trying-to-keep-teachers-from-retiring-2/) - For generations, defined benefit pensions have been a key component of compensation packages intended to attract and keep the most talented teachers in our public schools. For the teachers who love the job, these plans have delivered modest but reliable retirement income and the job retention incentive has provided stability to classrooms across the nation.
- [Retirement: A Party We All Want to Attend](https://publicpensions.org/news/retirement-a-party-we-all-want-to-attend-2/) - Today we are wishing a happy 80th birthday to Social Security, one of the foremost accomplishments of the last century in providing Americans with a secure retirement. Formed in the wake of the Great Depression, Social Security helps Americans who work hard and play by the rules have a chance at a modest and secure
- [Connecticut’s ‘defined benefits’ pension system best for retirees](https://publicpensions.org/news/connecticuts-defined-benefits-pension-system-best-for-retirees-2/) - In a recent article “CT still lags most states in saving for public-sector pensions,” the Connecticut Mirror wrote about a report from Pew Charitable Trusts on the strength of pension funds around the country. The Pew report ignores a number of important pieces of context regarding the growing strength of the Connecticut Retirement Plans and
- [NPPC Statement on Governor Wolf's Veto of Republican Pension Bill](https://publicpensions.org/news/nppc-statement-on-governor-wolfs-veto/) - We applaud Governor Wolf for vetoing a misguided and destructive pension proposal that would only hurt Pennsylvania taxpayers, public employees and the entire state’s economy. The Republicans’ plan will cost taxpayers in the long run and likely increase—rather than reduce—the state’s pension debt.
- [5 Things to Know About Chris Christie's Record of Dismantling Working Families' Economic Well-being](https://publicpensions.org/news/5-things-chris-christies-record/) - New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie announced Tuesday he is entering the 2016 presidential race. As governor of New Jersey, Chris Christie deliberately and repeatedly broke his promise to firefighters, nurses and teachers that he’d strengthen their hard-earned retirement funds, and instead, rewarded Wall Street and big corporations while his state’s public servants suffered. What kind
- [NPPC Statement on Chris Christie's Presidential Announcement](https://publicpensions.org/news/nppc-statement-on-chris-christies-presidential-announcement/) - In reaction to Gov. Chris Christie’s announcement today that he’s running for president of the United States, Bailey Childers, executive director of the National Public Pension Coalition,issued the following statement:
- [NPPC Statement on the New Jersey Supreme Court decision in the pension case](https://publicpensions.org/news/statement-new-jersey-supreme-court-decision/) - “This is a disappointing decision for the teachers, firefighters, police officers and thousands of other public workers in New Jersey who have devoted their lives to serving others and don’t ask for much in return, just the modest retirement promised to them. Rather than live up to that promise, Governor Christie has been playing politics
- [Why Courts Keep Defending Workers' Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/news/courts-defending-retirement-security/) - The economic inequality gap in America is widening, and more and more of our aging parents and neighbors are retiring into poverty. For most Americans, Social Security stands between them and living out their retirement in poverty. For public workers, many of whom do not receive Social Security benefits, their pension is what allows them
- [Women nearly twice as likely to retire in poverty](https://publicpensions.org/news/women-twice-as-likely-to-retire-in-poverty/) - The promise of America from one generation to the next is a simple one: After a lifetime of hard and rewarding work, Americans can expect to enjoy a secure retirement. But for a growing number of us, especially women, making good on that promise has become nearly impossible.
- [The “golden years” are gone: Why retirement is hell for American women](https://publicpensions.org/news/why-retirement-is-hell-for-american-women/) - Imagine you are a woman in public service in any number of states across this country. You spend your career teaching, nursing the elderly back to health, assisting the unemployed in their job search. After many years of working hard, playing by rules, supporting your children to get them through college, you retire. If you’re
- [GASB Standards & What They Mean for Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/gasb-standards/) - In 2012, the Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) adopted a new set of guidelines that significantly impact how states and municipalities report their pension obligations. Those standards – laid out in GASB Statements 67 and 68 – have the potential to make pension obligations look far more expensive.
- [White House Aide Calls for Stricter Broker Rules on 401(k)s](https://publicpensions.org/news/white-house-stricter-broker-rules/) - One of President Barack Obama’s top economic advisers said abusive trading practices are costing workers billions of dollars in retirement savings each year and called for stricter rules on Wall Street brokers.
- [False savings: the myth of the 401(k)](https://publicpensions.org/news/false-savings-the-myth-of-the-401k/) - Over the past several years, a key Pennsylvania political debate has centered on the issue of public pensions. Conventional wisdom from the General Assembly said that in order to deal with our significant debt problems, we have to end traditional pensions as we know them and move into a different kind of system altogether.
- [National Public Pension Coalition Announces New Executive Director Bailey Childers](https://publicpensions.org/news/national-public-pension-coalition-announces-new-executive-director-bailey-childers/) - The National Public Pension Coalition (NPPC) announced Wednesday that Bailey Childers has been named the new Executive Director. Childers replaces outgoing Executive Director, Jordan Marks.
- [Enron billionaire frets about public pensions' solvency](https://publicpensions.org/news/enron-billionaire-frets-about-public-pensions-solvency/) - When former Enron trader and Texas billionaire John Arnold donated more than $1 million to a November 2014 initiative to reform the public pension system in Phoenix, pension activists took notice.
- [Why 401(k)s Shouldn't Replace Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/why-401ks-shouldnt-replace-pensions/) - It's not just basic finance, it's common sense: A large pool of money invested by professionals will yield far greater returns than small, separate accounts managed by individuals with no professional training in finance.
- [N.J. public worker pensions not so generous after all, study says](https://publicpensions.org/news/n-j-public-worker-pensions-not-so-generous-after-all-study-says/) - New Jersey’s public employee pension plans ranked among the least generous of top public pension plans in the country, according to a report released today
- [Sam Brownback’s $1.1 billion tax-cut blunder slams into Kansans](https://publicpensions.org/news/sam-brownbacks-1-1-billion-tax-cut-blunder-slams-into-kansans/) - Good highways, pensions for public employees and children are the latest victims of Gov. Sam Brownback’s $1.1 billion tax-cut blunder. And the Kansas Legislature will be forced to slash the state budget by hundreds of millions more in coming months, just to make sure the state doesn’t run a deficit.
- [Phoenix voters reject pension overhaul backed by billionaire](https://publicpensions.org/news/phoenix-voters-reject-pension-overhaul-backed-by-billionaire/) - Voters in Phoenix have rejected a proposal, funded in part by a hedge fund billionaire, to convert the pension system for city workers to a 401k-style retirement plan favored by most U.S. private employers.
- [Phoenix Voters Support Retirement Security, Defeat Billionaire Special Interests](https://publicpensions.org/news/phoenix-voters-support-retirement-security-defeat-billionaire-special-interests/) - City voters rejected Proposition 487, which would have ended the city’s traditional pension system. Hedge fund billionaire John Arnold funneled more than $1 million into the anti-pension campaign through his political action committee.
- [Stockton shows that bankruptcy is no way to cut pension debt](https://publicpensions.org/news/stockton-shows-that-bankruptcy-is-no-way-to-cut-pension-debt/) - For the very few severely distressed cities that may consider bankruptcy, the question will not be whether they can reduce pensions, but whether they should. In Stockton, the answer to that question was clear to all with a stake in its future.
- [Hedge fund billionaire, unions trade blows in Phoenix pension fight](https://publicpensions.org/news/hedge-fund-billionaire-unions-trade-blows-in-phoenix-pension-fight/) - A push to reform Phoenix's retirement system has become the latest front in a battle between union-backed groups and a Texas hedge fund billionaire over the future of America's public pensions.
- [Pensions: Strengthening Our Workplaces, Communities and the Middle Class](https://publicpensions.org/news/pensions-strengthening-our-workplaces-communities-and-the-middle-class/) - Over the past several decades, we have seen a number of alarming private-sector workplace trends that have diminished the relationship between employer and employee. The rise of contractors and temp employees, outsourcing, and diminished benefits have all led to an "every man for himself" attitude in today's workforce. But perhaps the biggest contributor to job
- [Many Americans accumulating debt faster than they’re saving for retirement](https://publicpensions.org/news/many-americans-accumulating-debt-faster-than-theyre-saving-for-retirement/) - A majority of Americans with 401(k)-type savings accounts are accumulating debt faster than they are setting aside money for retirement, further undermining the nation’s troubled system for old-age saving, a new report has found.
- [ICYMI: Bloomberg - State Pension Gaps Shrink for First Time Since 2007](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-bloomberg-state-pension-gaps-shrink-for-first-time-since-2007/) - Wanted to make sure you saw this Bloomberg story that reports that the financial status of state pension funds is improving as contributions increase, the economy improves and funds begin to emerge out of the hole caused by the financial crisis.
- [ICYMI: 'Dark money' floods Phoenix pension election](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-dark-money-floods-phoenix-pension-election/) - Wanted to make sure you saw the story from today's Arizona Republic about the "dark money" flooding into Phoenix in support of a ballot measure to end the city's pension system for public employees.
- [ICYMI: NJ Star-Ledger Editorial: Christie ships pension funds to Wall Street pals](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-nj-star-ledger-editorial-christie-ships-pension-funds-to-wall-street-pals/) - An editorial published this morning by the New Jersey Star-Ledger criticizes the "mutually profitable kinship between Gov. Chris Christie and Wall Street hedge funds." New Jersey is now one of the nation's largest investors in hedge funds and, under Christie, a significant amount of the business has gone to firms who have supported him politically.
- [Basic Facts on Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/basic-facts-on-public-pensions/) - Pension are rebounding. Public pensions are returning to healthy funding levels following the Wall Street crash of 2008. According to Wilshire Consulting, the average funding ratio across all state pension plans in FY 2013 was 75%, up from 65% in FY 2009.
- [What Judges Know: The Fault for Underfunded Pensions Lies With Politicians, Not Workers](https://publicpensions.org/news/what-judges-know-the-fault-for-underfunded-pensions-lies-with-politicians-not-workers/) - We can’t count on politicians to stick to their word. It’s promising that judges are forcing them to.
- [Anti-Pension TX Billionaire's Spokesman Gets It Wrong](https://publicpensions.org/news/anti-pension-tx-billionaires-spokesman-gets-it-wrong/) - For those following the debate around pension reform, we, too, think it’s #TimeForACorrection. Josh McGee, Vice President of Public Accountability for the Laura and John Arnold Foundation, recently claimed in a tweet that Arnold has never “supported pension cutting as an aim of reform.”
- [Making it Worse: A Case Study in Failed Transitions to 401(k) Plans](https://publicpensions.org/news/making-it-worse-a-case-study-in-failed-transitions-to-401k-plans/) - Politicians who spent years underfunding public pension systems sometimes try to solve the debt problems they created by switching to a privatized, 401(K)-style defined contribution system.
- [ICYMI: A Stunning Loss for John Arnold in California](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-a-stunning-loss-for-john-arnold-in-california/) - Yesterday, Ventura County Superior Court Judge Kent Kellegrew ordered that an illegal ballot initiative ending public pensions for Ventura County California firefighters and other public workers be thrown off the ballot.
- [The truth about Detroit’s pension woes](https://publicpensions.org/news/the-truth-about-detroits-pension-woes/) - Last week, the people of Detroit had to make a devastating decision. Vote for the so-called grand bargain that leads to painful cuts to their modest retirement benefits averaging $19,000 a year, or vote no and run the risk of losing even more.
- [A Christie Pension Recap…](https://publicpensions.org/news/a-christie-pension-recap/) - As you've no doubt read at this point, Christie this week did a stunning 180 on his promises to the state of New Jersey.
- [Court Grants Union Coalition's Request to Stay Implementation of Pension Changes](https://publicpensions.org/news/court-grants-union-coalitions-request-to-stay-implementation-of-pension-changes/) - Today, the Sangamon County Circuit Court granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) and a preliminary injunction, as requested by the We Are One Illinois coalition and its plaintiffs, halting the implementation of Senate Bill 1 (Public Act 98-599).
- [Christie's Next Scandal: Handing Your Retirement to Wall Street Cronies](https://publicpensions.org/news/christies-next-scandal-handing-your-retirement-to-wall-street-cronies/) - Following months of damning headlines, subpoenas, and potentially career-ending revelations, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie is trying to get back into the good graces of his right-wing backers by following a standard playbook – beating up on public workers.
- [Enron Executive John Arnold Loses Big in California](https://publicpensions.org/news/enron-executive-john-arnold-loses-big-in-california/) - The California Superior Court has rejected San Jose Mayor Reed’s attempt to throw out ballot language that accurately describes how his pension gutting scheme affects public employees.
- [Sirota Exposes Deceptions in Brookings Report on Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/sirota-exposes-deceptions-in-brookings-report-on-pensions/) - Columnist and writer David Sirota tears the lid off of a seemingly innocuous new report by the Brookings Institute exposing that the research paper is actually just a deceptive "native advertising" campaign funded entirely by the John Arnold Foundation (John Arnold is the former Enron CEO) to promulgate pension mistruths.
- [NPPC Responds to Detroit Bankruptcy Blueprint](https://publicpensions.org/news/nppc-responds-to-detroit-bankruptcy-blueprint/) - Governor Snyder and Kevyn Orr might consider this blueprint a "comeback" and "the best path forward," but don’t believe the hype.
- [The Wolf of Sesame Street: Revealing the secret corruption inside PBS's news division](https://publicpensions.org/news/the-wolf-of-sesame-street-revealing-the-secret-corruption-inside-pbss-news-division/) - On December 18th, the Public Broadcasting Service's flagship station WNET issued a press release announcing the launch of a new two-year news series entitled "The Pension Peril." The series, promoting cuts to public employee pensions, is airing on hundreds of PBS outlets all over the nation. It has been presented as objective news on major
- [NPPC Response to City of Detroit's Bankruptcy Proposal](https://publicpensions.org/news/nppc-response-to-city-of-detroits-bankruptcy-proposal/) - While Governor Snyder and Emergency Manager Orr may claim pensioners win out over Wall Street in the proposed bankruptcy settlement, the truth is that once again Detroit’s workers are getting the short end of the deal.
- [NPPC Responds to Senator Harkin's Retirement Proposal](https://publicpensions.org/news/nppc-responds-to-senator-harkins-retirement-proposal/) - Senator Harkin has reaffirmed what we have known all along – that retirement security in this country is in crisis
- [State pension obligations can be crushing. But corporate welfare costs more.](https://publicpensions.org/news/state-pension-obligations-can-be-crushing-but-corporate-welfare-costs-more/) - When Louise Jordan walked through the doors of Abraham Lincoln High School in North Philadelphia 34 years ago, after landing her dream job as a special education teacher right out of college, she didn't worry about her tiny salary -- just $10,770 per year back then. It wasn't a lot to live on, but if
- [NPPC Responds to President Obama's Call for National Retirement Security Plan](https://publicpensions.org/news/nppc-responds-to-president-obamas-call-for-national-retirement-security-plan/) - President Obama has rightly recognized that Americans are facing a retirement security crisis, which exacerbates the growing income inequality facing our nation's middle class.
- [National Public Pension Coalition Statement on First Day of Detroit Swap Deal Testimony](https://publicpensions.org/news/national-public-pension-coalition-statement-on-first-day-of-detroit-swap-deal-testimony/) - Despite admitting that the original swap deal may have been illegal, emergency manager Kevyn Orr, in partnership with Governor Snyder, continues to show preference to the Wall Street interests that impoverished the city at the expense of retirees who devoted their lives to public service.
- [Statement on Rhodes' Decision to Hold Wall Street Accountable](https://publicpensions.org/news/statement-on-rhodes-decision-to-hold-wall-street-accountable/) - Judge Rhodes has wisely recognized that Wall Street banks should not be rewarded for their role driving Detroit’s downward financial spiral, nor should their interests be prioritized over Detroit’s police officers, firefighters, and thousands of other public workers.
- [ICYMI: Right-Wing Ideologues Coordinate an Effort to Gut Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-right-wing-ideologues-coordinate-an-effort-to-gut-public-pensions/) - A series of new documents exposed by the Guardian yesterday revealed how the right-wing is coordinating efforts to decimate the middle class, including a large-scale effort to gut public pensions across the country.
- [Pew Peddles Flawed Numbers and Pension-Slashing Schemes in Jacksonville; Firefighters Fight Back](https://publicpensions.org/news/pew-peddles-flawed-numbers-and-pension-slashing-schemes-in-jacksonville-firefighters-fight-back/) - Tomorrow, Pew Charitable Trusts is headed back to Jacksonville to propose a so-called “solution” to Jacksonville’s pension problems – shifting the city into a private 401(k)-style or cash-balance plan that will rob Jacksonville’s police officers and firefighters of their retirement security.
- [Detroit Bankruptcy Ruling: Wall Street Wins Over Firefighters, Police Officers, City Workers](https://publicpensions.org/news/detroit-bankruptcy-ruling-wall-street-wins-over-firefighters-police-officers-city-workers/) - In the bankruptcy, the modest pensions of Detroit’s firefighters, police officers, and other city employees could be all but wiped out, even as Wall Street banks continue to extract hundreds millions of dollars from thecity’s economy.
- [ICYMI: Paul Krugman Addresses Looming Retirement Security Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-paul-krugman-addresses-looming-retirement-security-crisis/) - As states consider eliminating their defined benefit pension plans and transitioning to 401(k)-type plans, Paul Krugman’s words strike a chord
- [Expanding Social Security](https://publicpensions.org/news/expanding-social-security/) - For many years there has been one overwhelming rule for people who wanted to be considered serious inside the Beltway. It was this: You must declare your willingness to cut Social Security in the name of “entitlement reform.” It wasn’t really about the numbers, which never supported the notion that Social Security faced an acute
- [ICYMI: Right-wing pension-cutters get humiliated by their own survey data](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-right-wing-pension-cutters-get-humiliated-by-their-own-survey-data/) - Pew Center on the States has been a central figure in the nationwide plot to eliminate states’ pension plans, but they are running into one small problem: their own polling data shows that “the American public is powerfully rejecting the right’s anti-public-worker crusade.”
- [Right-wing pension-cutters get humiliated by their own survey data](https://publicpensions.org/news/right-wing-pension-cutters-get-humiliated-by-their-own-survey-data/) - Late last month, the Pew Center on the States began ratcheting up its now-infamous campaign to slash public employee retirement benefits. As damaging stories about its partnership with former Enron trader John Arnold swirled through the media, the organization convened a two-day conference for politicians, lobbyists and activists at the swanky Mandarin Oriental Hotel in
- [Breaking: Koch brothers spend big bucks attacking retirement security in Florida](https://publicpensions.org/news/breaking-koch-brothers-spend-big-bucks-attacking-retirement-security-in-florida/) - The Koch brothers have focused their right-wing ideology on retirement security in Florida, mounting a "well-financed" direct mail, television, and social media campaign against three Republican legislators who voted to protect public pensions.
- [Koch brothers group targets GOP state senators with attack ads](https://publicpensions.org/news/koch-brothers-group-targets-gop-state-senators-with-attack-ads/) - Three Republican state senators are the target of a well-financed campaign this month that portrays them as giving subsidies to billionaires, being unresponsive to parents of children in struggling schools, and being reckless with pensions.
- [Statement on Cincinnati Voters' Rejection of Pension Overhaul](https://publicpensions.org/news/statement-on-cincinnati-voters-rejection-of-pension-overhaul/) - Yesterday, the voters of Cincinnati stood against the Tea Party and supported a secure retirement by defeating Issue 4, which would have eliminated traditional pensions.
- [ICYMI: Bankrupt Detroit’s ‘legacy costs’ have human faces](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-bankrupt-detroits-legacy-costs-have-human-faces/) - MarketWatch explores the true costs of eliminating pension benefits:
- [Statement on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Pension Elimination](https://publicpensions.org/news/statement-on-fannie-mae-and-freddie-mac-pension-elimination/) - Pensions are a critical leg of the retirement security stool, and we do a great disservice to retirees when we eliminate these systems.
- [ICYMI: 401(K)-Type Plans Adding to America’s Looming Retirement Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-401k-type-plans-adding-to-americas-looming-retirement-crisis/) - The Washington Post reported today that most Americans with 401(k)-type savings plans do not have enough saved to outweigh the debt they are taking on leading up to their retirement.
- [ICYMI: ALEC Sets Its Sights on Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-alec-sets-its-sights-on-public-pensions/) - The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), a corporate-funded conservative think tankbest known for pushing “stand your ground”, voter ID, and anti-union laws, has identified its latest cause célèbre: public pensions.
- [The myths behind public-employee pension reform](https://publicpensions.org/news/the-myths-behind-public-employee-pension-reform/) - Since the once-great city of Detroit filed for bankruptcy, Americans everywhere are in a panic. Is my city next? Is my state facing financial disaster? From Wisconsin's controversial Gov. Scott Walker to New Jersey's Chris Christie, politicians all over seem to be telling us the answer is yes. The fiscal end is nigh, these leaders
- [Looting Public Pensions: A New Think-Tank Study](https://publicpensions.org/news/looting-public-pensions-a-new-think-tank-study/) - So we have a new feature out today, "Looting the Pension Funds," that looks at the blame game being played with state and municipal fiscal crises and the hiring of ultra-expensive "alternative investments" like hedge funds as a key trend in an evolving pension reform movement.
- [ICYMI: Public employees wary of plans to reform retirement programs](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-public-employees-wary-of-plans-to-reform-retirement-programs/) - Public employees pushed back Tuesday against escalating pressure from legislative leaders and the Fallin administration to accept changes to the state's public employee retirement plans.
- [Message to Jacksonville: Beware of What the Pew/Arnold Alliance is Selling](https://publicpensions.org/news/message-to-jacksonville-beware-of-what-the-pewarnold-alliance-is-selling/) - This morning, Pew Charitable Trusts – which has jeopardized its credible reputation by teaming up with former Enron executive John Arnold to introduce pension-crippling plans all over the country – made an initial presentation to the Jacksonville Retirement Reform Task Force.
- [Exposed: Enron billionaire’s diabolical plot to loot worker pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/exposed-enron-billionaires-diabolical-plot-to-loot-worker-pensions/) - In May of 2013, the Pew Charitable Trusts released a report that sounded a frightening alarm. Titled “Retirement Security Across Generations” and widely cited throughout the national media, the study found that a lack of retirement savings, less guaranteed pension income and the economic downturn have collectively exposed the next generation of Americans “to the
- [Jacksonville Buyers Beware: Pew Partners with the Arnold Foundation to Bring a Crippling Plan for Public Pensions to Jacksonville](https://publicpensions.org/news/jacksonville-buyers-beware-pew-partners-with-the-arnold-foundation-to-bring-a-crippling-plan-for-public-pensions-to-jacksonville/) - Yesterday, the Jacksonville Daily Record reported that Pew Charitable Trusts is dropping into Jacksonville to promote their cash balance overhaul policies as a “solution” to the city’s pension problems.
- [Report Shines a Light on Unbalanced Illinois Pension Proposal](https://publicpensions.org/news/report-shines-a-light-on-unbalanced-illinois-pension-proposal/) - A proposal to alter Illinois’ public pension systems would significantly undermine the retirement security of teachers and other public-sector workers and create a new threat to the fiscal sustainability of the state’s pension systems, according to a new study
- [The Facts: Fiscal Sustainability of Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/the-facts-fiscal-sustainability-of-public-pensions/) - In light of news surrounding Detroit’s bankruptcy filing, pundits and outside observers are already using the city’s fiscal woes as an opportunity to perpetuate the argument that public pension plans are unsustainable.
- [ICYMI: Corbett Pension Proposal to Cost Additional Billions, Says PERC Analysis](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-corbett-pension-proposal-to-cost-additional-billions-says-perc-analysis/) - According to a recent Capitolwire report, a new draft analysis by the Public Employee Retirement Commission (PERC) concludes that Governor Corbett’s 401(k)-style pension reform proposal would cost billions of additional dollars.
- [ICYMI: Philly Inquirer: "Gov. Corbett's pension reform plan would make the problem worse."](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-philly-inquirer-gov-corbetts-pension-reform-plan-would-make-the-problem-worse/) - Today, the editorial board of the Philadelphia Inquirer joined the voices of 800,000 teachers, emergency responders, nurses, retirees and other middle-class Pennsylvanians, in opposition to Governor Corbett’s attack on middle-class retirement security.
- [ICYMI: WPRO: Forbes writer attacks Raimondo's methods, motives](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-wpro-forbes-writer-attacks-raimondos-methods-motives/) - Rhode Island’s Public Pension Reform Looks More Like Wall Street Feeding Frenzy.
- [Pew Pushing Biased Poll in Quest to Dismantle Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/pew-pushing-biased-poll-in-quest-to-dismantle-public-pensions/) - Pew Center on the States has dug itself deeper into a hole by publicizing misleading findings from a biased poll about dismantling the public pension system.
- [Kentucky Lawmakers Abandon Costly Pew Pension Proposals](https://publicpensions.org/news/kentucky-lawmakers-abandon-costly-pew-pension-proposals/) - The National Public Pension Coalition, a coalition of organizations representing millions of teachers, nurses, police, firefighters, and other public sector employees, issued the following statement in response to the House’s passage of Kentucky pension bill SB2 that was stripped of recommendations made by Pew Center on the States.
- [Louisiana Taxpayers and Public Employees Win with Court’s Pension Ruling](https://publicpensions.org/news/louisiana-taxpayers-and-public-employees-win-with-courts-pension-ruling/) - The just-announced unconstitutionality of the Louisiana cash balance plan, along with the fact that Rhode Island’s pension-slashing bill is also tied up in courts with challenges to its constitutionality, should serve as a cautionary tale to other governors who want to cut their own state’s pension plans.
- [NPPC Statement on Pew’s “A Widening Gap in Cities”](https://publicpensions.org/news/nppc-statement-on-pews-a-widening-gap-in-cities/) - The National Public Pension Coalition, a coalition of organizations representing millions of teachers, nurses, police, firefighters, and other public sector employees, issued the following statement in response to today’s Pew Charitable Trusts report on public pensions and retiree healthcare.
- [ICYMI: Public unions criticize Pew’s involvement in Kentucky pension issue](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-public-unions-criticize-pews-involvement-in-kentucky-pension-issue/) - As legislatures across the country try to slash public pension benefits for hard-working firefighters, librarians, teachers, and police officers, Pew Center on the States and the Arnold Foundation are working behind the scenes playing the role of puppet-master.
- [ALEC’s Latest Target: Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/alecs-latest-target-public-pensions/) - ALEC, now infamous for its corporate-backed “model legislation” and annual convention, released its 2013 legislative priorities this week—and has identified public pensions as one of its latest targets.
- [ICYMI: Poverty rates rising for older Americans without Defined-Benefit plans, NIRS finds](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-poverty-rates-rising-for-older-americans-without-defined-benefit-plans-nirs-finds/) - This study is a solemn reminder that state politicians’ efforts to enact pension-slashing legislation are a cause for serious concern for millions of middle-class Americans planning to retire in the coming years.
- [Harkin proposes universal pension coverage](https://publicpensions.org/news/harkin-proposes-universal-pension-coverage/) - Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Chairman Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, unveiled two proposals Friday to address what he calls “disappearing pensions."
- [California pension reform needs thought](https://publicpensions.org/news/california-pension-reform-needs-thought/) - A campaign is being waged by pension fund critics to push the Legislature to quickly enact "reform" measures.
- [Poverty Rate Nearly Doubles for Americans Lacking Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/poverty-rate-nearly-doubles-for-americans-lacking-pensions/) - Rates of poverty among older households lacking pension income were approximately nine times greater than the rates among older households with DB pension income in 2010, up from six times greater in 2006 a new study calculates.
- [Providing All Californians with Retirement Security](https://publicpensions.org/news/providing-all-californians-with-retirement-security/) - In the past decade the number of California workers with access to a retirement plan at work has plummeted.
- [Bankrupt cities? Don’t blame unions](https://publicpensions.org/news/bankrupt-cities-dont-blame-unions/) - From reading the voluminous accounts of the fiscal woes of Stockton and San Bernardino, you’d think that municipal unions and feckless city officials are primarily what led these cities down the path to fiscal ruin.
- [Pension Fund Return Projections are Based on Arithmetic, not Just History](https://publicpensions.org/news/pension-fund-return-projections-are-based-on-arithmetic-not-just-history/) - The main question mark in pension fund returns is the return on stock, which typically accounts for 60-70 percent of pension fund assets.
- [Report Attacks Public Pension "Myths"](https://publicpensions.org/news/report-attacks-public-pension-myths/) - A relatively new economic think tank in Kentucky has released a report that pushes back on calls to cut the state's pension benefits.
- [Pension criticism misses the target](https://publicpensions.org/news/pension-criticism-misses-the-target/) - In his recent op-ed piece ("Maryland's mismanaged pensions," July 10), George Liebmann mischaracterizes numerous aspects of the Maryland State Retirement and Pension System that require correction.
- [5 Myths About Public Employee Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/5-myths-about-public-employee-pensions/) - There's an oft repeated myth being fed by many that claims the defined benefit pension plans available to most public employees are going bankrupt.
- [NPPC Statement on Wisconsin Study Commission’s Findings](https://publicpensions.org/news/nppc-statement-on-wisconsin-study-commissions-findings/) - The National Public Pension Coalition, a coalition of organizations representing millions of teachers, nurses, police, firefighters, and other public sector employees, issued the following statement in response to a Wisconsin Study Commission report recommending no changes to the state’s public pension systems.
- [Report cautions against major changes to Wisconsin Retirement System](https://publicpensions.org/news/report-cautions-against-major-changes-to-wisconsin-retirement-system/) - A much-anticipated report on the Wisconsin Retirement System cautions that changing the highly rated fund could create greater costs for taxpayers while undermining benefits for hundreds of thousands of current and future retirees.
- [Don't force public employees into troubled 401(k)s](https://publicpensions.org/news/dont-force-public-employees-into-troubled-401ks/) - An annual interest rate of 8.4 percent should impress investors in any economy, let alone this one. Traditional savings accounts currently yield less than 1 percent, and IRAs and 401(k)s across the country have yet to recover from a whopping 32 percent loss in value between 2007 and 2008. And most troubling of all, millions
- [NPPC Criticizes Move Enabling Politicians to Further Undermine the Retirement Security of Public Workers While Letting Wall Street Off-the-Hook](https://publicpensions.org/news/nppc-criticizes-move-enabling-politicians-to-further-undermine-the-retirement-security-of-public-workers-while-letting-wall-street-off-the-hook/) - These accounting changes undermine the retirement security of teachers, cops, firefighters and other public workers by making unfunded liabilities appear much larger than they actually are.
- [Communities of color will feel brunt of impact from pension ‘reform’](https://publicpensions.org/news/communities-of-color-will-feel-brunt-of-impact-from-pension-reform/) - Now that ballot initiatives targeting public employees’ pensions have passed in San Diego and San Jose, state legislators and politicians in other cities may be contemplating similar efforts. But new data released this month should give them pause.
- [It's time to develop reasonable pensions for all](https://publicpensions.org/news/its-time-to-develop-reasonable-pensions-for-all/) - When it comes to retirement benefits, public employee unions have one thing right: We should not eliminate traditional pension plans.
- [NPPC Statement on Pew’s “The Widening Gap Update”](https://publicpensions.org/news/nppc-statement-on-pews-the-widening-gap-update/) - To the detriment of all public employees and all of our communities, 'The Widening Gap Update' uses data from fiscal year 2010 and will undoubtedly be used by organizations and individuals like the Koch Brothers and Arnold Foundation to advance their own agendas against public employees
- [Five things to consider before cutting pension benefits](https://publicpensions.org/news/five-things-to-consider-before-cutting-pension-benefits/) - The message from voters about public pension plans is clear: They're ready to cut the retirement benefits of police, firefighters, teachers and other state and municipal workers.
- [Fareed Zakaria Is Really Mad About Public Pensions!](https://publicpensions.org/news/fareed-zakaria-is-really-mad-about-public-pensions/) - Zakaria seems to have convinced himself that public pension obligations are going to turn state and local governments into future Greeces, but that is not what the numbers show.
- [On Public Pensions, NYT Continues to Rely Exclusively on Those Who Were Wrong](https://publicpensions.org/news/on-public-pensions-nyt-continues-to-rely-exclusively-on-those-who-were-wrong/) - In the 90s, and in the years of the last decade before the housing crash, most economists and pension managers who made projections of stock market returns were making absurdly optimistic assumptions.
- [Pension Reform: Some Myth-Busters To Follow The Stalemate](https://publicpensions.org/news/pension-reform-some-myth-busters-to-follow-the-stalemate/) - Last week, a State Senate bill that initially sought to replace New Hampshire’s defined benefit (DB for short — think pension) plan with a defined contribution plan (DC for short — think 401(k)) dissolved into a stalemate.
- [Budget and Pension Experts Highlight $400 Million Costs and State Credit Risks Associated with Pension-Slashing Legislation](https://publicpensions.org/news/budget-and-pension-experts-highlight-400-million-costs-and-state-credit-risks-associated-with-pension-slashing-legislation/) - Today (June 4, 2012) Gary Olson, former Senate Fiscal Agency Director and current Senior Policy Fellow at Public Sector Consultants, along with the Coalition for Secure Retirement (CSR), highlighted the massive potential costs and credit risks associated with the Senate passed version of school employee pension legislation, Senate Bill 1040, which is scheduled for a
- [When it came to pensions, state officials looked out for No. 1](https://publicpensions.org/news/when-it-came-to-pensions-state-officials-looked-out-for-no-1/) - A year after Emil Jones Jr. retired from the Illinois Senate in 2008, his annual pension jumped by more than 50 percent to $122,334 — far more than he ever earned as Senate president.
- [Josh Mandel Attacked Over $65 Billion Pension Flub](https://publicpensions.org/news/josh-mandel-attacked-over-65-billion-pension-flub/) - Ohio Democrats are pouncing on state Treasurer Josh Mandel (R) for apparently forgetting $65 billion in state pension funds under his supervision, calling it an example of his management of his office while running for U.S. Senate.
- [Broken Promises: Michigan Lawmakers Pass Pension-Slashing Legislation with Higher Price Tag than Current Plan](https://publicpensions.org/news/broken-promises-michigan-lawmakers-pass-pension-slashing-legislation-with-higher-price-tag-than-current-plan/) - Today, the Michigan State Senate passed pension-slashing legislation, Senate Bill 1040, that would undermine the retirement benefits of school employees and cost the state an additional $2-3 billion more than its current plan, according to the Michigan Office of Retirement Services.
- [Union coalition launches campaign for fair solution on pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/union-coalition-launches-campaign-for-fair-solution-on-pensions/) - Frustrated with politicians trying to force teachers, fire fighters, nurses and other public employees alone to bear the burden of solving the state’s pension funding crisis—a crisis politicians themselves caused by failing for years to pay their share to public retirement systems—the union coalition We Are One Illinois has launched a new campaign to call
- [In Major Victory for Workers, AZ Gov. Brewer Forced to Reverse Course on Unconstitutional Pension-Slashing Scheme](https://publicpensions.org/news/in-major-victory-for-workers-az-gov-brewer-forced-to-reverse-course-on-unconstitutional-pension-slashing-scheme/) - On Tuesday, Arizona Governor Jan Brewer finally relented after suffering a major defeat in the Courts and signed off on legislation to reverse her illegal pension-slashing measure that placed a larger burden on the backs of teachers and other dedicated public service workers.
- [State Senate rejects 401(k) but passes pension bill](https://publicpensions.org/news/state-senate-rejects-401k-but-passes-pension-bill/) - A proposal for a 401(k)-style retirement plan for new teachers and government workers failed on a tie vote Thursday in the Kansas Senate, but its members later approved other changes designed to bolster the long-term financial health of the state pension system.
- [401(k)s are too risky for retirement](https://publicpensions.org/news/401ks-are-too-risky-for-retirement/) - Yvonne Walker says Americans would be better served by a new type of pension instead of 401(k)s.
- [Why 401(k)s are bad for the future of long-term care](https://publicpensions.org/news/why-401ks-are-bad-for-the-future-of-long-term-care/) - We live in a world of unintended consequences. Consider a 1978 change in the tax code designed to let corporate executives supplement their pensions with extra cash. Believe it or not, that was the idea behind this subsection in the Internal Revenue Code, better known as 401(k). It was never meant to be the nation's
- [Is 401(k) a Ticking Time Bomb?](https://publicpensions.org/news/is-401k-a-ticking-time-bomb/) - Internal Revenue Code section 401(k) is the only section of the US tax code that the average person can cite.
- [Everyone Agrees That the Decline in Private Sector Pay Has Been Understated](https://publicpensions.org/news/everyone-agrees-that-the-decline-in-private-sector-pay-has-been-understated/) - Jason Richwine and Andrew Biggs have apiece saying that many public sector workers are overpaid in which they also say that I agree with them in much of their analysis. This is true.
- [Public-Pension Return of 7.5% Marks Best Quarter Since 2010](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-pension-return-of-7-5-marks-best-quarter-since-2010/) - U.S. public pensions ended the first quarter with a median gain of 7.5 percent, the best performance since 2010, as stocks and real estate boosted returns, Wilshire Associates said.
- [Legislature Needs to Shine “Bright Light of Transparency” & Put the Brakes on Jindal’s Secretive Cash-Balance Scheme](https://publicpensions.org/news/legislature-needs-to-shine-bright-light-of-transparency-put-the-brakes-on-jindals-secretive-cash-balance-scheme/) - Governor Jindal is currently trying to ram through the legislature one of the most extreme overhauls of a state-run pension system anywhere in the nation, without the benefit of a transparent and open debate.
- [Senate's teachers bill spurs backlash](https://publicpensions.org/news/senates-teachers-bill-spurs-backlash/) - Unions and conservatives slam bid to give retirees less than lawmakers get
- [La. retirement changes could prompt agency brain drain, officials say](https://publicpensions.org/news/la-retirement-changes-could-prompt-agency-brain-drain-officials-say/) - Louisiana's elections, agriculture and utility regulators say the governor's retirement proposals could drive some of their most qualified staff from their employment rolls.
- [Will LA Lawmakers Follow ALEC State Co-Chair, Rep. Cromer & 12 Major Corporations & Quit Secretive 1% Group ALEC?](https://publicpensions.org/news/will-la-lawmakers-follow-alec-state-co-chair-rep-cromer-12-major-corporations-quit-secretive-1-group-alec/) - In case you missed it, Louisiana State Rep. Greg Cromer— State Chairman of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) since 2010—just announced that he had seen enough of ALEC’s inner workings and resigned from the controversial organization.
- [Public Workers' Compensation and Fair Labor Practices](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-workers-compensation-and-fair-labor-practices/) - Once again Andrew Biggs and Jason Richwine claim that public workers are overpaid ("Overpaid Public Workers: The Evidence Mounts," op-ed, April 11). The members of my union, the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees, would be surprised to hear that.
- [Who's Behind the Curtain?](https://publicpensions.org/news/whos-behind-the-curtain/) - A look at who's really behind the latest push to reform retirement laws in Louisiana
- [The War on Public Sector Workers](https://publicpensions.org/news/the-war-on-public-sector-workers/) - Politicians across the country are using heaping doses of the politics of envy to try to arouse the anger of workers.
- [Corporate Sponsors Quit ALEC; Louisiana Politicians Need to Do the Same](https://publicpensions.org/news/corporate-sponsors-quit-alec-louisiana-politicians-need-to-do-the-same/) - Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Kraft Foods, Wendy’s, McDonalds, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation leave group over extremist stands
- [Virginia Retirement Plan Could Come With Hefty Price Tag](https://publicpensions.org/news/virginia-retirement-plan-could-come-with-hefty-price-tag/) - Virginia legislation that would create a new mandatory hybrid retirement program for state employees could cost Virginia millions of dollars to implement, according to an analysis by The Commonwealth Institute.
- [New pension plan could cost Virginia millions](https://publicpensions.org/news/new-pension-plan-could-cost-virginia-millions/) - A Republican-led push to shift Virginia’s public employees toward a 401(k)-style retirement plan could cost the state up to $25 million, a new report says.
- [ICYMI: Article Reveals Jindal Exempts Himself And Politicians From Own Pension Overhaul Plan](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-article-reveals-jindal-exempts-himself-and-politicians-from-own-pension-overhaul-plan/) - While Governor Jindal has been pushing to increase the contribution rates and minimum retirement age for state employees, an article in The Advocate reveals that under Jindal’s same pension proposal, he would exempt himself and elected officials from such changes.
- [Democratic Pension Plan for All Is Good Opportunity, Even for GOP](https://publicpensions.org/news/democratic-pension-plan-for-all-is-good-opportunity-even-for-gop/) - From the Department of Crazy-Sounding Ideas Dismissed Too Quickly: Democrats recently introduced new legislation that seeks to provide pension plans for private sector workers.
- [Transparency Watch: Gov. Cuomo’s Wall St.-Aligned Group Spends $4 Mil in 3 Weeks Pushing his Wall St. Agenda Just as Ethics Report Reveals Group Spent $12 Mil Last Year Lobbying Albany for Cuomo](https://publicpensions.org/news/transparency-watch-gov-cuomos-wall-st-aligned-group-spends-4-mil-in-3-weeks-pushing-his-wall-st-agenda-just-as-ethics-report-reveals-group-spent-12-mil-last-year-lobbying-albany-for-cuo/) - National Public Pension Coalition Calls on Elected Leaders to Make Wall St. Insiders & Billionaires Pay Their Fair Share, Not Team Up With Them to Slash the Retirement Security of Teachers, Cops, & Firefighters
- [CSNY’s budget blitz: $3.9 million](https://publicpensions.org/news/csnys-budget-blitz-3-9-million/) - The Committee to Save New York, a pro-Cuomo coalition of business leaders, real estate magnates and a private-sector labor union has bought $4 million in air time for ads praising the Democratic governor’s agenda, according to a source watching the ad buy database.
- [Constitutionality of Jindal pension bills doubted](https://publicpensions.org/news/constitutionality-of-jindal-pension-bills-doubted/) - A law firm hired by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor's office to review Gov. Bobby Jindal's recommended overhaul of retirement benefits for rank-and-file state employees says key proposals are likely to be ruled unconstitutional.
- [The Latest on Politicians' Pension-Slashing Proposals in the States](https://publicpensions.org/news/the-latest-on-politicians-pension-slashing-proposals-in-the-states/) - In states across the country, there have been an unprecedented number of proposals by Governors and state legislatures to completely undermine the retirement security of millions of middle class workers who rely on the public pension system.
- [Voters don't blame workers for pension woes, new poll finds](https://publicpensions.org/news/voters-dont-blame-workers-for-pension-woes-new-poll-finds/) - California voters do not blame public employees for the state's pension woes and are in no hurry to make steep cuts in the system, according to a new USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times poll.
- [Facts and Data That Tell the Pension Story](https://publicpensions.org/news/facts-and-data-that-tell-the-pension-story/) - Two notable reports on public pensions were published this past week: the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) released an updated economic impact study: “Pensionomics 2012: Measuring the Economic Impact of DB Pension Expenditures,” and the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued “State and Local Government Pension Plans: Economic Downturn Spurs Efforts to Address Costs
- [ICYMI: Leading independent, nonpartisan Fiscal Policy Institute Releases Report Showing How Tier 6 Reduces Public Workers' Retirement by 40%](https://publicpensions.org/news/icymi-leading-independent-nonpartisan-fiscal-policy-institute-releases-report-showing-how-tier-6-reduces-public-workers-retirement-by-40/) - As was expected, you may have seen yesterday that several Wall Street-aligned groups supporting the Governor’s 40% pension-cutting plan attempted to distort the facts in order to protect their one percent agenda and their billions in corporate tax breaks and offshore tax shelters.
- [Firefighters face risks and deserve their pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/firefighters-face-risks-and-deserve-their-pensions/) - When the bell sounds at fire houses in our communities, irrespective of the nature of the call or the hour, New York's full-time firefighters respond without hesitation. And they do so repeatedly.
- [State and Local Public Pensions – Let the Truth Be Told](https://publicpensions.org/news/state-and-local-public-pensions-let-the-truth-be-told/) - A General Accountability Office (GAO) study of state and local government pension plans released on Friday, March 2, confirmed what the National League of Cities (NLC) and many other national groups representing employers and state and local pension plans have been saying for years: Public pensions are not facing a short-term crisis. While they need
- [Legislature overreaches, public pays the bill](https://publicpensions.org/news/legislature-overreaches-public-pays-the-bill/) - Gov. Rick Scott and the Florida Legislature are at it again, embracing legislation that ignores constitutional limits on their authority, forcing costly taxpayer-financed litigation and resorting to name-calling and threats to the judiciary when the courts rule against them.
- [New York state comptroller takes aim at ‘anti-pension advocates'](https://publicpensions.org/news/new-york-state-comptroller-takes-aim-at-anti-pension-advocates/) - New York state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli on Tuesday continued his spirited defense of public defined benefit pension plans.
- [Gov. Cuomo's Tier VI Pension Hopes On The Brink](https://publicpensions.org/news/gov-cuomos-tier-vi-pension-hopes-on-the-brink/) - Even Senate Republicans seem to be balking at Cuomo’s plan to lower benefits and provide a 401(k) option to new workers.
- [AFSCME Hits The Airwaves](https://publicpensions.org/news/afscme-hits-the-airwaves/) - As some 2,000 AFSCME members descend on the Capitol today to lobbying against Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s proposed pension reform plan, the union is releasing a new statewide ad campaign that accuses the governor of trying to reduce public employees pension benefits by 40 percent.
- [Wall Street Tycoons Thank New York County Executives for Giving them Their Fair Share of Working People’s Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/wall-street-tycoons-thank-new-york-county-executives-for-giving-them-their-fair-share-of-working-peoples-pensions/) - Throughout New York state this week, activists posing as Wall Street tycoons will be visiting the offices of Democratic County Executives to thank them for endorsing Governor Andrew Cuomo’s plan to slash the public pensions of teachers, nurses and firefighters in order to benefit Wall Street and the richest 1%.
- [PENSION: (National) Guest Viewpoint: 401(k)s a dangerous move for N.Y. pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/pension-national-guest-viewpoint-401ks-a-dangerous-move-for-n-y-pensions/) - Binghamton's pension costs have increased significantly in the last decade, so you might expect me to support the 401(k)-style retirement plan now on the table in Albany. But I don't. - See more at: http://www.dukesblotter.com/2012/02/pension-national-guest-viewpoint-401ks.html#sthash.jqtW4gYl.dpuf
- [N.Y. pensions are worth defending](https://publicpensions.org/news/n-y-pensions-are-worth-defending/) - In the pension debate, it seems that the facts can’t hold a candle to a well-worn narrative.
- [New York Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver not totally with Gov. Cuomo on pension reforms](https://publicpensions.org/news/new-york-assembly-speaker-sheldon-silver-not-totally-with-gov-cuomo-on-pension-reforms/) - Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver has raised the prospect of supporting some pension changes this year — but nowhere near the sweeping reforms Gov. Cuomo seeks.
- [Give workers a shot at livable retirement](https://publicpensions.org/news/give-workers-a-shot-at-livable-retirement/) - Few public policy debates seem to have as many fundamental misunderstandings as the one over public employee pension benefits.
- [NASRA: State, local governments spend 3% on public pension plan funding](https://publicpensions.org/news/nasra-state-local-governments-spend-3-on-public-pension-plan-funding/) - Funding for public pension plans accounted for just 3% of state and local government spending in 2009, the most recent data available, according to a report from the National Association of State Retirement Administrators.
- [David Mills and David Stella: State retirement plan a model for private sector](https://publicpensions.org/news/david-mills-and-david-stella-state-retirement-plan-a-model-for-private-sector/) - There is a retirement crisis in our country, but it is not a crisis of one group having too much retirement income. It’s a crisis of other groups having too little.
- [CalPERS report undermines Gov. Jerry Brown’s pension overhaul plan](https://publicpensions.org/news/calpers-report-undermines-gov-jerry-browns-pension-overhaul-plan/) - CalPERS has a new report that says California Gov. Jerry Brown's idea to alter pensions with 401(k)-style plans won't help new workers and won't save California money, either.
- [Rep. Filner, City Worker React to State Public Employment Relations Board Ruling that the City of San Diego Violated State Labor Laws by Pushing a Pension Ballot Measure](https://publicpensions.org/news/rep-filner-city-worker-react-to-state-public-employment-relations-board-ruling-that-the-city-of-san-diego-violated-state-labor-laws-by-pushing-a-pension-ballot-measure/) - On Monday, Representative Bob Filner and President of AFSCME Local 127 Joan Raymond, a City of San Diego sanitation driver reacted to today’s ruling from the state Public Employment Relations Board, which said the City of San Diego and San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders violated labor laws by trying to push a pension measure on
- [State Agency Challenges City Pension Reform Plan](https://publicpensions.org/news/state-agency-challenges-city-pension-reform-plan/) - California Public Employee Relations Board: City Pension Reform Initiative Amounts To Unfair Labor Practice
- [Support retirement security for Alaskans](https://publicpensions.org/news/support-retirement-security-for-alaskans/) - Are pensions the equivalent of buggy whips and 8-track cassettes; have they become obsolete? No but we strayed from fundamentals and now we need to return. Plans that stuck to fundamentals are on solid footing today. They provide the example we need to return.
- [San Diego’s “Do as I Say, Not as I Do” Mayor Comes to Washington to Tout Plan Resulting in Higher Costs, Phantom Savings & No Safety Net for Workers](https://publicpensions.org/news/san-diegos-do-as-i-say-not-as-i-do-mayor-comes-to-washington-to-tout-plan-resulting-in-higher-costs-phantom-savings-no-safety-net-for-workers/) - On Monday, San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders will be in Washington, DC to tout his ballot measure that will leave city workers without Social Security or any other retirement safety net.
- [National Public Pension Coalition Reacts to Pension Law Signed by Arizona Governor Jan Brewer Being Ruled Unconstitutional](https://publicpensions.org/news/national-public-pension-coalition-reacts-to-pension-law-signed-by-arizona-governor-jan-brewer-being-ruled-unconstitutional/) - The National Public Pension Coalition today lauded a decision by Maricopa County Superior Court judge in Arizona who ruled that a law signed by Arizona Governor Jan Brewer changing the contribution that state employees make to their pension funds is unconstitutional.
- [Minnesota state pensions: A realistic scenario](https://publicpensions.org/news/minnesota-state-pensions-a-realistic-scenario/) - Minnesota's systems are well-managed and are reasonably funded under the circumstances.
- [Don’t Balance Budgets at Expense of Public Servants’ Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/dont-balance-budgets-at-expense-of-public-servants-pensions/) - Many governments are looking to balance budgets or contain costs, and most at least glancing look at their pensions.
- [Worker-favored pension plan makes progress](https://publicpensions.org/news/worker-favored-pension-plan-makes-progress/) - Alaska’s public employees could be getting nearer to having the option for a traditional pension plan, instead of the 401(k)-style plan new employees were controversially forced into starting in 2006.
- [Public pensions are not the enemy](https://publicpensions.org/news/public-pensions-are-not-the-enemy/) - So why does Gov. Cuomo's plan vilify middle class retirement security?
- [State Leaders, Policy Experts Separate Fact From Fiction on Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/news/state-leaders-policy-experts-separate-fact-from-fiction-on-public-pensions/) - In the wake of numerous federal and state proposals to diminish public pension systems, state leaders and national experts gathered today at the National Press Club to make the case for the effectiveness of defined benefit pension plans.
- [Killing Pensions to Benefit the 1 Percent](https://publicpensions.org/news/killing-pensions-to-benefit-the-1-percent/) - Rupert Murdoch's Wall Street Journal, the Pravda of the 1 percent, is at it again, continuing its push to gut the retirement security of millions of middle class workers across the country while enriching the Wall Street moneymen who just three years ago took our economy over the cliff.
- [Not your father’s golden years](https://publicpensions.org/news/not-your-fathers-golden-years/) - For many Americans, the dream of a worry-free retirement remains elusive. NBC’s Anne Thompson explains why.

## Studies & Reports

- [Pensionomics 2018: Measuring the Economic Impact of Defined Benefit Pension Expenditures](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/pensionomics-2018-measuring-economic-impact-defined-benefit-pension-expenditures/) - Economic gains attributable to defined benefit (DB) pensions in the U.S. are substantial. Retiree spending of pension benefits in 2016 generated $1.2 trillion in total economic output, supporting some 7.5 million jobs across the U.S. Pension spending also added a total of $202.6 billion to government coffers, as taxes were paid at federal, state and
- [Teacher Pensions vs. 401(k)s in Six States: Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri and Texas](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/teacher-pensions-vs-401ks-six-states-colorado-connecticut-georgia-kentucky-missouri-texas/) - A new report finds that teacher pension plans play a critical role in retaining educators while also providing greater retirement security than 401(k)-style retirement accounts. Eight out of ten educators serving in the six states studied can expect to collect pension benefits that are greater in value than what they could receive under an idealized
- [Oregon PERS Must Be Protected](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/oregon-pers-must-protected/)
- [A School’s Choice: Retirement Security for Charter School Teachers](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/schools-choice-retirement-security-charter-school-teachers/) - In twenty states, public charter schools are given the option to participate in a public pension plan or to enroll their teachers in an alternative retirement plan. This report aims to determine the impact of this choice on the retirement security of charter school teachers.
- [Why Pensions Matter](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/why-pensions-matter/) - Why Pensions Matter examines the history of public pension plans in the United States. In tracing their development, the report considers why public pensions are still important today.
- [Retirement Security for Oklahoma Teachers Still Overlooked](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/retirement-security-oklahoma-teachers-still-overlooked/) - In light of Oklahoma's continuing teacher shortage, defined benefit pensions remain an essential tool to recruit and retain quality teachers.
- [Pensionomics 2016](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/pensionomics-2016/) - A new research report finds that retiree spending of pension benefits in 2014 generated $1.2 trillion in total economic output, supporting some 7.1 million jobs across the U.S. Pensionomics 2016: Measuring the Economic Impact of Defined Benefit Pension Expenditures reports the national economic impacts of public and private pension plans, as well as the impact
- [Public Pensions Work - And These Three Systems Prove It](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/public-pensions-work-three-systems-prove/) - Public Pensions Work- And These Three Systems Prove It By Tyler Bond September 7, 2016 Defined benefit pensions remain the most secure and reliable retirement plan for working families. The evidence continues to mount that defined contribution plans, like 401(k)s, do not provide an adequate retirement for anyone other than wealthy corporate executives. Pensions
- [Oklahoma Teacher Pension Report](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/oklahoma-teacher-pension-report/) - Retirement Security Often Overlooked In Conversation Around Oklahoma Teacher Shortage By Tyler Bond March 29, 2016 “One of my teachers has a classroom of 42. That’s too many students for one classroom to have. It’s hard for the teacher to teach, and there is no student-teacher relationship.” – Madison Reavis, Muskogee High School student
- [The Continuing Retirement Savings Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/the-continuingsavings-crisis/) - A new research report calculates that the U.S. retirement savings crisis continues to worsen, and that the typical working household still has virtually no retirement savings.
- [Case Studies of State Pension Plans that  Switched  to Defined Contribution Plans](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/case-studies-oribution-plans/) - Presents summaries of past changes in three state retirement systems that made the switch to a DC plan from a traditional DB pension. Case studies cover the following states: West Virginia, Michigan, and Alaska. Rather than save states money, these DB to DC switch exacerbated funding problems and drove up pension debt.
- [Still a Better Bang for the Buck: Update on the Economic Efficiencies of Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/still-a-betteres-of-pensions/) - New research finds that pension plans are a far more cost-efficient means of providing retirement income as compared to individual defined contribution accounts.
- [Putting State Pension Costs in Context](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/putting-state-pension-costs-in-context/) - How they compare to the cost of corporate subsidies, tax breaks and loopholes.
- [The Plot Against Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/the-plot-against-pensions/) - The Pew-Arnold campaign to undermine America’s retirement security – and leave taxpayers with the bill.
- [New Pension Plan Could Increase Taxpayer Costs and Cut Benefits Deeply](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/new-pension-plan-could-increase-taxpayer-costs-and-cut-benefits-deeply/) - Cash balance proposal could erode investment returns that pay for most pension benefits and require wage hikes to offset benefit cuts for experienced public workers.
- [Pew Center for the States Primer](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/pew-center-for-the-states-primer/) - Pew Center for the States has had a presence in a number of states. Despite their claims to be an impartial think tank advocating for fair and transparent policies, Pew’s involvement in the pension fight is anything but fair and transparent.
- [Cash Balance Plan Primer](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/cash-balance-plan-primer/) - This primer provides basic information about cash balance plans. While these types of retirement plans have been spreading in the private sector for more than a quarter century, there are only a few cash balance plans operating in the public sector.
- [Governor’s Proposal to Delay State Contributions Would Add Billions to Public Pension Debt](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/governors-proposal-to-delay-state-contributions-would-add-billions-to-public-pension-debt/) - Keystone Pension Primer finds pension debt would be half what it is today if Pennsylvania's employee-to-employer contribution ratio had mirrored national average since 2011
- [The 80% Pension Funding Standard Myth](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/80-pension-funding-standard-myth/) - An 80% funded ratio often has been cited in recent years as a basis for whether a pension plan is financially or “actuarially” sound. Left unchallenged, this misinformation can gain undue credibility with the observer, who may accept and in turn rely on it as fact, thereby establishing a mythic standard. This issue brief debunks
- [Pennsylvania Pensionomics 2012](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/pennsylvania-pensionomics-2012/) - Measuring the Economic Impact of definied benefit pension expenditures in Pennsylvania.
- [Florida Pensionomics 2012](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/florida-pensionomics-2012/) - Measuring the Economic Impact of definied benefit pension expenditures in Florida.
- [In Defense of Defined-Benefit Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/studies_and_reports/in-defense-of-defined-benefit-pensions/) - Modest Reforms to State Plans Are Best Option for Taxpayer.

## States

- [Wyoming](https://publicpensions.org/states/wyoming/) - States with Coalitions Wyoming Wyoming Coalition for a Healthy Retirement (WCHR) The Wyoming Coalition for a Healthy Retirement (WCHR) believes that all workers deserve to retire with dignity. About Wyoming’s Coalition The Wyoming Coalition for a Healthy Retirement (WCHR) believes that all workers deserve to retire with dignity. The coalition works day-in and day-out to
- [Ohio](https://publicpensions.org/states/ohio/) - States With Coalitions Ohio The mission of the Ohio Public Pension Coalition is simple: to ensure retirement security for Ohio's teachers, firefighters, police officers, nurses, and other public servants who keep our communities safe and thriving. Pension Security is Public Security About Ohio's Coalition The Ohio Public Pension Coalition (OPPC) is a statewide alliance of
- [Alaska](https://publicpensions.org/states/alaska/) - States with Coalitions Alaska Alaska Public Pension Coalition (AKPPC) Founded in 2021, the Alaska Public Pension Coalition’s (AKPPC) primary purpose is to re-open the state’s closed pension plans. About Alaska’s Coalition In 2006, the Alaska legislature eliminated the option for a defined-benefit pension plan for public employees, including teachers, state workers, firefighters, and police officers.
- [Kentucky](https://publicpensions.org/states/kentucky/) - States with Coalitions Kentucky Kentucky Public Pension Coalition (KPPC) Public employees and retirees have joined together to form the Kentucky Public Pension Coalition. About Kentucky’s Coalition Public employees and retirees have joined together to form the Kentucky Public Pension Coalition. The purpose of the coalition is to defend and preserve retirement security for the workers
- [Iowa](https://publicpensions.org/states/iowa/) - States with Coalitions Iowa Iowa Coalition for Retirement Security (ICRS) The Iowa Coalition for Retirement Security was formed to ensure Iowa’s public employees can retire with dignity. About Iowa’s Coalition The Iowa Coalition for Retirement Security was formed to ensure Iowa’s public employees can retire with dignity. Recently, retirement security for over 350,000 Iowans has
- [Texas](https://publicpensions.org/states/texas/) - States with Coalitions Texas Texas Pension Coalition (TPC) The Texas Pension Coalition represents the interests of active and retired public employees throughout Texas. About Texas’ Coalition The Texas Pension Coalition represents the interests of active and retired public employees throughout Texas. We work to make retirement security an ongoing conversation between public employees, their employers,
- [Colorado](https://publicpensions.org/states/colorado/) - States with Coalitions Colorado Secure PERA Secure PERA first formed in 2006 to work with Colorado Public Employees’ Retirement Association (PERA) and the State Legislature on changes to PERA’s defined benefit plan. About Colorado’s Coalition Facing threats to the system after the market crash in 2008, we became part of the bi-partisan team that created
- [Connecticut](https://publicpensions.org/states/connecticut/) - States with Coalitions Connecticut Connecticut Coalition for Retirement Security (CCRS) The Connecticut Coalition for Retirement Security believes all workers deserve to retire with dignity and no politician or special interest group should ever be given the opportunity to rob them of that ability. About Connecticut’s Coalition The Connecticut Coalition for Retirement Security believes all workers
- [California](https://publicpensions.org/states/california/) - States with Coalitions California Protect Retirement Security for Californians Californians for Retirement Security is a coalition of more than 1.6 million Californians representing public employees and retirees. About California’s Coalition The state of California has more than 80 public retirement systems, incuding the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) and the California State Teachers' Retirement
- [Louisiana](https://publicpensions.org/states/louisiana/) - States with Coalitions Louisiana Louisiana Public Pension Coalition (LPPC) Since 2012, the Louisiana Public Pension Coalition has roudly represented hundreds of thousands of teachers, school employees, nurses, police, firefighters, state workers, and other public sector employees. About Louisiana’s Coalition Together, we affect policy that will protect the financial security of working families who rely on
- [New Hampshire](https://publicpensions.org/states/new-hampshire/) - States with Coalitions New Hampshire New Hampshire Retirement Security Coalition (NHRSC) The New Hampshire Retirement Security Coalition has worked with public employees and the New Hampshire Retirement System (NHRS) to ensure adequate retirement benefits for New Hampshire’s public workforce since 2008. About New Hampshire’s Coalition The New Hampshire Retirement Security Coalition has worked with public
- [Oregon](https://publicpensions.org/states/oregon/) - States with Coalitions Oregon Keep Oregon’s Promise (KOP) Keep Oregon’s Promise was formed to ensure a secure retirement for Oregon’s public employees. About Oregon’s Coalition Keep Oregon’s Promise was formed to ensure a secure retirement for Oregon’s public employees. They teach Oregon’s children in overcrowded classrooms, buying classroom supplies when budgets are low. They run
- [North Dakota](https://publicpensions.org/states/north-dakota/) - States with Coalitions North Dakota Integer bibendum a sed viverra cursus Integer bibendum a sed viverra cursus justo quam volutpat. Justo ornare pulvinar maecenas imperdiet pretium sed commodo. About Montana’s Coalition Integer bibendum a sed viverra cursus justo quam volutpat. Justo ornare pulvinar maecenas imperdiet pretium sed commodo. In velit arcu nisi amet lorem quis
- [Arizona](https://publicpensions.org/states/arizona/) - States with Coalitions Arizona Arizona Retirement Security Coalition (ARSC) The Arizona Retirement Security Coalition works to protect the pensions of the dedicated public employees who belong to the Arizona State Retirement System. About Arizona’s Coalition The Arizona Retirement Security Coalition works to protect the pensions of the dedicated public employees who belong to the Arizona
- [Michigan](https://publicpensions.org/states/michigan/) - States with Coalitions Michigan Coalition for Security Retirement Michigan (CSR) The Coalition for Secure Retirement helps provide a unified voice of active and retired school and state employees with Michigan state policymakers. About Michigan’s Coalition The Coalition for Secure Retirement helps provide a unified voice of active and retired school and state employees with Michigan
- [Oklahoma](https://publicpensions.org/states/oklahoma/) - States with Coalitions Oklahoma Keep Oklahoma’s Promise (KOP) Keep Oklahoma’s Promises (KOP) was founded in 2013 by a coalition of teachers, firefighters, and other public employees who came together to ensure our great state honors its promises and obligations. About Oklahoma’s Coalition Keep Oklahoma’s Promises (KOP) was founded in 2013 by a coalition of teachers,
- [Missouri](https://publicpensions.org/states/missouri/) - States with Coalitions Missouri Missouri Retirement Security Coalition (MRSC) The Missouri Retirement Security Coalition believes every Missourian should be able to retire with dignity. About Missouri’s Coalition The Missouri Retirement Security Coalition believes every Missourian should be able to retire with dignity. We have come together to stand up for Missouri’s teachers, firefighters, librarians, and
- [Kansas](https://publicpensions.org/states/kansas/) - States with Coalitions Kansas Keeping the Kansas Promise (KKP) Established in 2013, Keeping the Kansas Promise (KKP) protects Kansas’ hard-working public employees’ pensions. About Kansas’ Coalition Established in 2013, Keeping the Kansas Promise (KKP) protects Kansas’ hard-working public employees’ pensions. Made up of teachers, corrections officers, and other public employees, KKP is on the front
- [Montana](https://publicpensions.org/states/montana/) - States with Coalitions Montana Montana's Promise Montana’s promise is dedicated to protecting and strengthening retirement benefits for public employees. About Montana’s Coalition Made up of the employee organizations AFSCME, Montana Federation of Public Employees (MFPE), Montana State Council of Professional Firefighters (MSCOPFF), and the Montana AFL-CIO, Montana’s promise is dedicated to protecting and strengthening retirement

## Categories

- [This Week in Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/category/this-week-in-pensions/)
- [The Defined Benefit](https://publicpensions.org/category/defined-benefit/)

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- [Arizona State Retirement System](https://publicpensions.org/tag/arizona-state-retirement-system/)
- [Middle-class Workers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/middle-class-workers/)
- [Low-income workers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/low-income-workers/)
- [state retirement programs](https://publicpensions.org/tag/state-retirement-programs/)
- [unequal retirement access](https://publicpensions.org/tag/unequal-retirement-access/)
- [fund discipline](https://publicpensions.org/tag/fund-discipline/)
- [payroll deduction](https://publicpensions.org/tag/payroll-deduction/)
- [DOT](https://publicpensions.org/tag/dot/)
- [L.E.A.D](https://publicpensions.org/tag/l-e-a-d/)
- [Mystic](https://publicpensions.org/tag/mystic/)
- [Volunteer](https://publicpensions.org/tag/volunteer/)
- [Fortifying Main Street](https://publicpensions.org/tag/fortifying-main-street/)
- [GDP](https://publicpensions.org/tag/gdp/)
- [Pension Impact](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-impact/)
- [Public Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-pensions/)
- [Rural America](https://publicpensions.org/tag/rural-america/)
- [NCPERS](https://publicpensions.org/tag/ncpers/)
- [Pension Health](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-health/)
- [Pension Liability](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-liability/)
- [financial insecurity.](https://publicpensions.org/tag/financial-insecurity/)
- [gender pay gap](https://publicpensions.org/tag/gender-pay-gap/)
- [Bear Market](https://publicpensions.org/tag/bear-market/)
- [Funded Status](https://publicpensions.org/tag/funded-status/)
- [Education](https://publicpensions.org/tag/education/)
- [Public School](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-school/)
- [Savings](https://publicpensions.org/tag/savings/)
- [ESG](https://publicpensions.org/tag/esg/)
- [Labor Day](https://publicpensions.org/tag/labor-day/)
- [Pension History](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-history/)
- [nest egg](https://publicpensions.org/tag/nest-egg/)
- [NFL pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/nfl-pensions/)
- [public-worker shortage](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-worker-shortage/)
- [retirement account ownership](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retirement-account-ownership/)
- [retirement inequality](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retirement-inequality/)
- [New Jersey](https://publicpensions.org/tag/new-jersey/)
- [Equity](https://publicpensions.org/tag/equity/)
- [Hispanic Heritage Month](https://publicpensions.org/tag/hispanic-heritage-month/)
- [Latinos](https://publicpensions.org/tag/latinos/)
- [public pension](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-pension/)
- [Public Workers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-workers/)
- [Boomers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/boomers/)
- [Educator shortages](https://publicpensions.org/tag/educator-shortages/)
- [Teacher Pipeline](https://publicpensions.org/tag/teacher-pipeline/)
- [Arkansas](https://publicpensions.org/tag/arkansas/)
- [support staff](https://publicpensions.org/tag/support-staff/)
- [portable](https://publicpensions.org/tag/portable/)
- [Fire Fighters](https://publicpensions.org/tag/fire-fighters/)
- [Dignified retirement](https://publicpensions.org/tag/dignified-retirement/)
- [Pension advocate](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-advocate/)
- [The Great Recession](https://publicpensions.org/tag/the-great-recession/)
- [National Retirement Security Month](https://publicpensions.org/tag/national-retirement-security-month/)
- [NRSM](https://publicpensions.org/tag/nrsm/)
- [Pension Facts](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-facts/)
- [Secure Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/tag/secure-retirement/)
- [Pension Review](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-review/)
- [Thanksgiving](https://publicpensions.org/tag/thanksgiving/)
- [Officer](https://publicpensions.org/tag/officer/)
- [Trooper](https://publicpensions.org/tag/trooper/)
- [ALEC](https://publicpensions.org/tag/alec/)
- [Dark Money](https://publicpensions.org/tag/dark-money/)
- [Reason Foundation](https://publicpensions.org/tag/reason-foundation/)
- [New year](https://publicpensions.org/tag/new-year/)
- [Los Angeles](https://publicpensions.org/tag/los-angeles/)
- [Holidays](https://publicpensions.org/tag/holidays/)
- [Lawmakers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/lawmakers/)
- [Legislative Session](https://publicpensions.org/tag/legislative-session/)
- [pay increase](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pay-increase/)
- [NIRS Report](https://publicpensions.org/tag/nirs-report/)
- [Pensionomics](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pensionomics/)
- [Equable](https://publicpensions.org/tag/equable/)
- [Black History](https://publicpensions.org/tag/black-history/)
- [Labor Leaders](https://publicpensions.org/tag/labor-leaders/)
- [Labor Movement](https://publicpensions.org/tag/labor-movement/)
- [job trends](https://publicpensions.org/tag/job-trends/)
- [Fiscally Irresponsible](https://publicpensions.org/tag/fiscally-irresponsible/)
- [African American](https://publicpensions.org/tag/african-american/)
- [Economic opportunity](https://publicpensions.org/tag/economic-opportunity/)
- [Economic Security](https://publicpensions.org/tag/economic-security/)
- [Economic mobility](https://publicpensions.org/tag/economic-mobility/)
- [PES](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pes/)
- [Income gap](https://publicpensions.org/tag/income-gap/)
- [State Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/state-pensions/)
- [pension threat](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-threat/)
- [public worker](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-worker/)
- [attack on teachers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/attack-on-teachers/)
- [and retention](https://publicpensions.org/tag/and-retention/)
- [Baseball](https://publicpensions.org/tag/baseball/)
- [Major League Baseball](https://publicpensions.org/tag/major-league-baseball/)
- [shortage](https://publicpensions.org/tag/shortage/)
- [first responders](https://publicpensions.org/tag/first-responders/)
- [Public employee shortage](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-employee-shortage/)
- [safety concerns](https://publicpensions.org/tag/safety-concerns/)
- [Gen X](https://publicpensions.org/tag/gen-x/)
- [retirement unpreparedness](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retirement-unpreparedness/)
- [Restore Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/restore-pensions/)
- [Returning Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/returning-pensions/)
- [SB 88](https://publicpensions.org/tag/sb-88/)
- [Senate Bill 88](https://publicpensions.org/tag/senate-bill-88/)
- [Senator Cathy Giessel](https://publicpensions.org/tag/senator-cathy-giessel/)
- [DROP](https://publicpensions.org/tag/drop/)
- [Baby Boomers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/baby-boomers/)
- [defined-benefit pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/defined-benefit-pensions/)
- [three-legged stool](https://publicpensions.org/tag/three-legged-stool/)
- [Worker Shortages](https://publicpensions.org/tag/worker-shortages/)
- [Equable Institute](https://publicpensions.org/tag/equable-institute/)
- [Secure Illinois Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/tag/secure-illinois-retirement/)
- [Secure Illinois Retirements](https://publicpensions.org/tag/secure-illinois-retirements/)
- [SIR](https://publicpensions.org/tag/sir/)
- [TIAA](https://publicpensions.org/tag/tiaa/)
- [plan closure](https://publicpensions.org/tag/plan-closure/)
- [student loans](https://publicpensions.org/tag/student-loans/)
- [Underfunding](https://publicpensions.org/tag/underfunding/)
- [16th anniversary](https://publicpensions.org/tag/16th-anniversary/)
- [Ohio](https://publicpensions.org/tag/ohio/)
- [Shortages](https://publicpensions.org/tag/shortages/)
- [employment](https://publicpensions.org/tag/employment/)
- [public-sector jobs](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-sector-jobs/)
- [Tier 2 Benefits](https://publicpensions.org/tag/tier-2-benefits/)
- [Vacancies](https://publicpensions.org/tag/vacancies/)
- [NRSM2023](https://publicpensions.org/tag/nrsm2023/)
- [pension income](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-income/)
- [retirement gap](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retirement-gap/)
- [savings crisis](https://publicpensions.org/tag/savings-crisis/)
- [Blue States](https://publicpensions.org/tag/blue-states/)
- [Gratitude](https://publicpensions.org/tag/gratitude/)
- [thankful](https://publicpensions.org/tag/thankful/)
- [American Education Week](https://publicpensions.org/tag/american-education-week/)
- [Education Support Professionals](https://publicpensions.org/tag/education-support-professionals/)
- [ESP](https://publicpensions.org/tag/esp/)
- [Paraeducators](https://publicpensions.org/tag/paraeducators/)
- [Paraprofessionals](https://publicpensions.org/tag/paraprofessionals/)
- [IBM](https://publicpensions.org/tag/ibm/)
- [Private-Sector](https://publicpensions.org/tag/private-sector/)
- [UAW](https://publicpensions.org/tag/uaw/)
- [Pension Reinstatement](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-reinstatement/)
- [legislative update](https://publicpensions.org/tag/legislative-update/)
- [year-end review](https://publicpensions.org/tag/year-end-review/)
- [Civil Rights](https://publicpensions.org/tag/civil-rights/)
- [Martin Luther King Jr.](https://publicpensions.org/tag/martin-luther-king-jr/)
- [MLK](https://publicpensions.org/tag/mlk/)
- [Private sector pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/private-sector-pensions/)
- [strike](https://publicpensions.org/tag/strike/)
- [Legislative Preview 2024](https://publicpensions.org/tag/legislative-preview-2024/)
- [Gray New Deal](https://publicpensions.org/tag/gray-new-deal/)
- [economic downturn](https://publicpensions.org/tag/economic-downturn/)
- [Great Recession](https://publicpensions.org/tag/great-recession/)
- [Generation X](https://publicpensions.org/tag/generation-x/)
- [Wage Gap](https://publicpensions.org/tag/wage-gap/)
- [Women's History Month](https://publicpensions.org/tag/womens-history-month/)
- [Pension Reform](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-reform/)
- [Retirement crisis](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retirement-crisis/)
- [2024 Legislative update](https://publicpensions.org/tag/2024-legislative-update/)
- [Employee Shortages](https://publicpensions.org/tag/employee-shortages/)
- [Blackrock](https://publicpensions.org/tag/blackrock/)
- [Teresa Ghilarducci](https://publicpensions.org/tag/teresa-ghilarducci/)
- [Maine](https://publicpensions.org/tag/maine/)
- [Employee retention](https://publicpensions.org/tag/employee-retention/)
- [retirement reform](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retirement-reform/)
- [construction workers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/construction-workers/)
- [Key Bridge](https://publicpensions.org/tag/key-bridge/)
- [Maryland workforce shortage](https://publicpensions.org/tag/maryland-workforce-shortage/)
- [Retirement Insecurity](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retirement-insecurity/)
- [International Workers Day](https://publicpensions.org/tag/international-workers-day/)
- [May Day](https://publicpensions.org/tag/may-day/)
- [Ted Benna](https://publicpensions.org/tag/ted-benna/)
- [recruitment & retention](https://publicpensions.org/tag/recruitment-retention/)
- [SEIU](https://publicpensions.org/tag/seiu/)
- [Senate](https://publicpensions.org/tag/senate/)
- [Inequity](https://publicpensions.org/tag/inequity/)
- [Bringing pensions back](https://publicpensions.org/tag/bringing-pensions-back/)
- [Defined-Benefit](https://publicpensions.org/tag/defined-benefit-2/)
- [Defined Benefit Plans](https://publicpensions.org/tag/defined-benefit-plans/)
- [Local Employees](https://publicpensions.org/tag/local-employees/)
- [State Employees](https://publicpensions.org/tag/state-employees/)
- [Public Sector](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-sector-2/)
- [Retirement Benefits](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retirement-benefits/)
- [Reopening Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/reopening-pensions/)
- [Olympics](https://publicpensions.org/tag/olympics/)
- [Gold Medal](https://publicpensions.org/tag/gold-medal/)
- [National Review](https://publicpensions.org/tag/national-review/)
- [NFL](https://publicpensions.org/tag/nfl/)
- [Public Safety](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-safety/)
- [back-to-school](https://publicpensions.org/tag/back-to-school/)
- [Tim Walz](https://publicpensions.org/tag/tim-walz/)
- [Corrections](https://publicpensions.org/tag/corrections/)
- [comeback](https://publicpensions.org/tag/comeback/)
- [LL Cool J](https://publicpensions.org/tag/ll-cool-j/)
- [worker shortage](https://publicpensions.org/tag/worker-shortage/)
- [WEP GPO](https://publicpensions.org/tag/wep-gpo/)
- [General Elections](https://publicpensions.org/tag/general-elections/)
- [NRSM2024](https://publicpensions.org/tag/nrsm2024/)
- [Entrepeneur](https://publicpensions.org/tag/entrepeneur/)
- [Project 2025](https://publicpensions.org/tag/project-2025/)
- [Elections](https://publicpensions.org/tag/elections/)
- [Alaksa](https://publicpensions.org/tag/alaksa/)
- [Boeing](https://publicpensions.org/tag/boeing/)
- [Private Sector Pension](https://publicpensions.org/tag/private-sector-pension/)
- [BiPartisan](https://publicpensions.org/tag/bipartisan/)
- [Fact vs Fiction](https://publicpensions.org/tag/fact-vs-fiction/)
- [Funding](https://publicpensions.org/tag/funding/)
- [UAAL](https://publicpensions.org/tag/uaal/)
- [Public Service Crisis](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-service-crisis/)
- [Surplus](https://publicpensions.org/tag/surplus/)
- [Deficit](https://publicpensions.org/tag/deficit/)
- [Windfall Elimination Provision](https://publicpensions.org/tag/windfall-elimination-provision/)
- [WEP & GPO](https://publicpensions.org/tag/wep-gpo-2/)
- [Government Pension Offset](https://publicpensions.org/tag/government-pension-offset/)
- [Alaskaa](https://publicpensions.org/tag/alaskaa/)
- [WEP](https://publicpensions.org/tag/wep/)
- [GPO](https://publicpensions.org/tag/gpo/)
- [Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset](https://publicpensions.org/tag/windfall-elimination-provision-wep-and-government-pension-offset/)
- [WEP & GPO Repeal](https://publicpensions.org/tag/wep-gpo-repeal/)
- [Repeal](https://publicpensions.org/tag/repeal/)
- [Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset Repeal](https://publicpensions.org/tag/windfall-elimination-provision-wep-and-government-pension-offset-repeal/)
- [L.A.](https://publicpensions.org/tag/l-a/)
- [L.A. Wildfires](https://publicpensions.org/tag/l-a-wildfires/)
- [L.A. Hereos](https://publicpensions.org/tag/l-a-hereos/)
- [IAFF](https://publicpensions.org/tag/iaff/)
- [pension data](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-data/)
- [NPPC](https://publicpensions.org/tag/nppc/)
- [economy](https://publicpensions.org/tag/economy/)
- [Union](https://publicpensions.org/tag/union/)
- [Black History Month](https://publicpensions.org/tag/black-history-month/)
- [Economic Justice](https://publicpensions.org/tag/economic-justice/)
- [Racial Equity](https://publicpensions.org/tag/racial-equity/)
- [2025 Legislative Session](https://publicpensions.org/tag/2025-legislative-session/)
- [Women’s History](https://publicpensions.org/tag/womens-history/)
- [Women in service](https://publicpensions.org/tag/women-in-service/)
- [Polling Data](https://publicpensions.org/tag/polling-data/)
- [public jobs](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-jobs/)
- [Utah](https://publicpensions.org/tag/utah/)
- [Public Worker Cuts](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-worker-cuts/)
- [Job Cuts](https://publicpensions.org/tag/job-cuts/)
- [DOGE](https://publicpensions.org/tag/doge/)
- [Market volatility](https://publicpensions.org/tag/market-volatility/)
- [investment strategy](https://publicpensions.org/tag/investment-strategy/)
- [Alaska pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/alaska-pensions/)
- [HB 78](https://publicpensions.org/tag/hb-78/)
- [early education reform](https://publicpensions.org/tag/early-education-reform/)
- [Service Recognition](https://publicpensions.org/tag/service-recognition/)
- [San Diego](https://publicpensions.org/tag/san-diego/)
- [PSRW](https://publicpensions.org/tag/psrw/)
- [Pensions for Alaska](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pensions-for-alaska/)
- [House Passage](https://publicpensions.org/tag/house-passage/)
- [Reform](https://publicpensions.org/tag/reform/)
- [Federal Initiatives](https://publicpensions.org/tag/federal-initiatives/)
- [Rally](https://publicpensions.org/tag/rally/)
- [Market Performance](https://publicpensions.org/tag/market-performance/)
- [Layoffs](https://publicpensions.org/tag/layoffs/)
- [Workforce Retention](https://publicpensions.org/tag/workforce-retention/)
- [Pension Funding](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-funding/)
- [black federal workers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/black-federal-workers/)
- [equality](https://publicpensions.org/tag/equality/)
- [Shrinking Workforce](https://publicpensions.org/tag/shrinking-workforce/)
- [Federal](https://publicpensions.org/tag/federal/)
- [DC](https://publicpensions.org/tag/dc/)
- [Voucher](https://publicpensions.org/tag/voucher/)
- [Public Education](https://publicpensions.org/tag/public-education/)
- [Private Equity](https://publicpensions.org/tag/private-equity/)
- [AFT](https://publicpensions.org/tag/aft/)
- [SS Anniversary](https://publicpensions.org/tag/ss-anniversary/)
- [Empower](https://publicpensions.org/tag/empower/)
- [STRS](https://publicpensions.org/tag/strs/)
- [Governance](https://publicpensions.org/tag/governance/)
- [Worker Representation](https://publicpensions.org/tag/worker-representation/)
- [Reynolds](https://publicpensions.org/tag/reynolds/)
- [Trump agenda](https://publicpensions.org/tag/trump-agenda/)
- [Koch](https://publicpensions.org/tag/koch/)
- [Heritage Foundation](https://publicpensions.org/tag/heritage-foundation/)
- [Back to School](https://publicpensions.org/tag/back-to-school-2/)
- [Teacher Pension](https://publicpensions.org/tag/teacher-pension/)
- [School Staff](https://publicpensions.org/tag/school-staff/)
- [Support Teachers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/support-teachers/)
- [Teacher Retention](https://publicpensions.org/tag/teacher-retention/)
- [Portability](https://publicpensions.org/tag/portability/)
- [jobs](https://publicpensions.org/tag/jobs/)
- [investment returns](https://publicpensions.org/tag/investment-returns/)
- [WNBA](https://publicpensions.org/tag/wnba/)
- [IPERS](https://publicpensions.org/tag/ipers/)
- [AFSCME](https://publicpensions.org/tag/afscme/)
- [NRSM 2025](https://publicpensions.org/tag/nrsm-2025/)
- [Mississippi](https://publicpensions.org/tag/mississippi/)
- [Black Workers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/black-workers/)
- [Black Women](https://publicpensions.org/tag/black-women/)
- [OPPC](https://publicpensions.org/tag/oppc/)
- [Federal Shutdown](https://publicpensions.org/tag/federal-shutdown/)
- [Compensation Survey](https://publicpensions.org/tag/compensation-survey/)
- [Government Shutdown](https://publicpensions.org/tag/government-shutdown/)
- [Tesla](https://publicpensions.org/tag/tesla/)
- [Budget Shortfalls](https://publicpensions.org/tag/budget-shortfalls/)
- [Private Markets](https://publicpensions.org/tag/private-markets/)
- [Pension Policy](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-policy/)
- [Unionize](https://publicpensions.org/tag/unionize/)
- [Alliance for Prosperity and a Secure Retirement](https://publicpensions.org/tag/alliance-for-prosperity-and-a-secure-retirement/)
- [Privatization](https://publicpensions.org/tag/privatization/)
- [Stories Wrapped](https://publicpensions.org/tag/stories-wrapped/)
- [2025 Pension Stories Review](https://publicpensions.org/tag/2025-pension-stories-review/)
- [Reason](https://publicpensions.org/tag/reason/)
- [MLK Day](https://publicpensions.org/tag/mlk-day/)
- [Education funding](https://publicpensions.org/tag/education-funding/)
- [State budgets](https://publicpensions.org/tag/state-budgets/)
- [Legislative Preview](https://publicpensions.org/tag/legislative-preview/)
- [BHM](https://publicpensions.org/tag/bhm/)
- [Crypto](https://publicpensions.org/tag/crypto/)
- [Workforce Destabilization](https://publicpensions.org/tag/workforce-destabilization/)
- [Love Public Employees](https://publicpensions.org/tag/love-public-employees/)
- [Valentine’s Day](https://publicpensions.org/tag/valentines-day-2/)
- [Love](https://publicpensions.org/tag/love/)
- [Thank you](https://publicpensions.org/tag/thank-you/)
- [AI](https://publicpensions.org/tag/ai/)
- [Millman](https://publicpensions.org/tag/millman/)
- [Women’s History Month](https://publicpensions.org/tag/womens-history-month-2/)
- [Retention crisis](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retention-crisis/)
- [Fiscal Responsibility](https://publicpensions.org/tag/fiscal-responsibility/)
- [Mid-Session](https://publicpensions.org/tag/mid-session/)
- [retirement savings gap](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retirement-savings-gap/)
- [women and retirement](https://publicpensions.org/tag/women-and-retirement/)
- [financial inequality](https://publicpensions.org/tag/financial-inequality/)
- [women and finances](https://publicpensions.org/tag/women-and-finances/)
- [caregiving and retirement](https://publicpensions.org/tag/caregiving-and-retirement/)
- [Palantir](https://publicpensions.org/tag/palantir/)
- [Iran](https://publicpensions.org/tag/iran/)
- [Tier 6](https://publicpensions.org/tag/tier-6/)
- [AFL-CIO](https://publicpensions.org/tag/afl-cio/)
- [Freedom Foundation](https://publicpensions.org/tag/freedom-foundation/)
- [Black Rock](https://publicpensions.org/tag/black-rock/)
- [Vedare](https://publicpensions.org/tag/vedare/)
- [Pension adversaries](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-adversaries/)
- [Modernization](https://publicpensions.org/tag/modernization/)
- [New York Tier 6](https://publicpensions.org/tag/new-york-tier-6/)
- [Monetization](https://publicpensions.org/tag/monetization/)
- [Economic Risks](https://publicpensions.org/tag/economic-risks/)
- [labor](https://publicpensions.org/tag/labor/)
- [Keep Oklahoma’s Promises](https://publicpensions.org/tag/keep-oklahomas-promises-2/)
- [TRS](https://publicpensions.org/tag/trs/)
- [Oklahoma pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/oklahoma-pensions/)
- [Teachers’ Retirement System](https://publicpensions.org/tag/teachers-retirement-system/)
- [401k](https://publicpensions.org/tag/401k-2/)
- [Pension stability](https://publicpensions.org/tag/pension-stability/)
- [Market Downturn](https://publicpensions.org/tag/market-downturn/)
- [Retirement risk](https://publicpensions.org/tag/retirement-risk/)
- [Wall Street](https://publicpensions.org/tag/wall-street/)
- [Milliman](https://publicpensions.org/tag/milliman/)
- [Massachusetts](https://publicpensions.org/tag/massachusetts/)
- [Calpers](https://publicpensions.org/tag/calpers/)
- [Secure PERA](https://publicpensions.org/tag/secure-pera/)
- [Correction Officer Pensions](https://publicpensions.org/tag/correction-officer-pensions/)
- [STRS Ohio](https://publicpensions.org/tag/strs-ohio/)
- [Mazzei](https://publicpensions.org/tag/mazzei/)
- [Dunleavy](https://publicpensions.org/tag/dunleavy/)
- [Whitmer](https://publicpensions.org/tag/whitmer/)
- [MDOC](https://publicpensions.org/tag/mdoc/)
- [ARM Board](https://publicpensions.org/tag/arm-board/)
- [Alaska Retirement Management Board](https://publicpensions.org/tag/alaska-retirement-management-board/)

## News Categories

- [Press Release](https://publicpensions.org/news_category/press-release/)
- [Link](https://publicpensions.org/news_category/link/)

## States

- [Michigan](https://publicpensions.org/states/michigan/)
- [West Virginia](https://publicpensions.org/states/west-virginia/)
- [New Jersey](https://publicpensions.org/states/new-jersey/)
- [Wisconsin](https://publicpensions.org/states/wisconsin/)
- [Pennsylvania](https://publicpensions.org/states/pennsylvania/)
- [Arizona](https://publicpensions.org/states/arizona/)
- [Illinois](https://publicpensions.org/states/illinois/)
- [Oklahoma](https://publicpensions.org/states/oklahoma/)
- [Missouri](https://publicpensions.org/states/missouri/)
- [Louisiana](https://publicpensions.org/states/louisiana/)
- [California](https://publicpensions.org/states/california/)
- [Colorado](https://publicpensions.org/states/colorado/)
- [Indiana](https://publicpensions.org/states/indiana/)
- [Wyoming](https://publicpensions.org/states/wyoming/)
- [Kentucky](https://publicpensions.org/states/kentucky/)
- [Utah](https://publicpensions.org/states/utah/)
- [New Hampshire](https://publicpensions.org/states/new-hampshire/)
- [Texas](https://publicpensions.org/states/texas/)
- [Maryland](https://publicpensions.org/states/maryland/)
- [Connecticut](https://publicpensions.org/states/connecticut/)
- [Alaska](https://publicpensions.org/states/alaska/)
- [South Carolina](https://publicpensions.org/states/south-carolina/)
- [Kansas](https://publicpensions.org/states/kansas/)
- [Florida](https://publicpensions.org/states/florida/)
- [Tennessee](https://publicpensions.org/states/tennessee/)
- [South Dakota](https://publicpensions.org/states/south-dakota/)
- [New York](https://publicpensions.org/states/new-york/)
- [North Carolina](https://publicpensions.org/states/north-carolina/)
- [Oregon](https://publicpensions.org/states/oregon/)
- [iowa](https://publicpensions.org/states/iowa/)
- [Alabama](https://publicpensions.org/states/alabama/)
- [New Mexico](https://publicpensions.org/states/new-mexico/)
- [Montana](https://publicpensions.org/states/montana/)
- [Nebraska](https://publicpensions.org/states/nebraska/)
- [North Dakota](https://publicpensions.org/states/north-dakota/)
- [Maine](https://publicpensions.org/states/maine/)
- [Massachusetts](https://publicpensions.org/states/massachusetts/)
- [Nevada](https://publicpensions.org/states/nevada/)
- [Ohio](https://publicpensions.org/states/ohio/)
- [DC](https://publicpensions.org/states/dc/)
- [Washington>Washington](https://publicpensions.org/states/washingtonwashington/)
- [Vermont](https://publicpensions.org/states/vermont/)
- [Minnesota](https://publicpensions.org/states/minnesota/)
- [Virginia](https://publicpensions.org/states/virginia/)
- [Washington](https://publicpensions.org/states/washington/)
- [Rhode Island](https://publicpensions.org/states/rhode-island/)
- [Mississippi](https://publicpensions.org/states/mississippi/)
- [Georgia](https://publicpensions.org/states/georgia/)
- [Hawaii](https://publicpensions.org/states/hawaii/)
- [Delaware](https://publicpensions.org/states/delaware/)