Support Prop 9
To the Editor:
Do you remember a special teacher who made a positive impact on your life? You know, the one who was there for you during a difficult time – whether it be a school or personal issue?
If you are as old as I am, that teacher probably retired from education years ago. I am asking you to consider showing appreciation to that person, as well as all retired teachers, by voting for Proposition 9 in the upcoming election on November 7.
Why should you support Prop 9? I am happy to present reasons for supporting that legislation.
First - Retired teachers in the state of Texas have not had a cost-of-living adjustment to their annuity in almost 20 years. Unlike Social Security annuitants who receive an annual COLA of approximately 2% from the federal government, Texas retired teachers only receive a COLA when approved by the Texas state legislature.
That is exactly what Prop 9 will do – grant a one-time adjustment of 2, 4, or 6% to retired teachers, based on the numbers of years each teacher has been retired, with the higher percentage given to teachers who retired prior to 2004 – the last time the legislature granted a COLA.
Second - Most retired teachers are not eligible to receive Social Security. The annuity for retired teachers in Texas comes from the Texas Retirement System annuity program, which is self-funded by mandatory contributions made by all public school employees in the state (similar to Social Security withholdings). The state does not contribute to the TRS program, but does have oversight of its financial status.
Third – Voting for Prop 9 will not cost the taxpayers of Texas anything. No increase in any taxes (property or sales) is required to fund this COLA The legislature approved using a portion of the surplus from the 2021-2023 budget cycle to fund the COLA. However, the Texas Constitution requires voter approval to implement this legislation.
Thank you for your consideration of supporting all retired school employees by voting FOR Prop 9 on November 7. Early voting for all propositions and other local items begins Oct. 23.