Issues

SOCIAL SECURITY TO INCREASE BY 2%

Medicare Part B Also Expected To Rise

October 17, 2017: It’s now official. Just yesterday the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced that the 2018 COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment) for Social Security beneficiaries will be 2.0%, starting with benefits paid this coming January. This 2% COLA will produce an average increase of $27 in monthly SS benefits next year.

Retirees & Unions Make Case on Healthcare Protections

Retirees & Unions Make Case on Healthcare Protections

Litany of Bills Before Public Service Committee

 

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh to Attend Annual Meeting

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh to Attend Annual Meeting

We are pleased to share some exciting news: Boston Mayor Marty Walsh will be our special guest speaker at the Association’s Annual Meeting on Friday, September 8th at Lantana in Randolph. The meeting gets underway at 11:00 AM and all Mass Retirees members are invited join us in welcoming Mayor Walsh. 

 

Critics Ignore How Public Pensions Benefit U.S. Taxpayers, NCPERS Finds

Critics Ignore How Public Pensions Benefit U.S. Taxpayers, NCPERS Finds

August 15, 2017: Public pension plans are resilient, pose little burden on taxpayers, and stimulate the U.S.

State Budget Deal Struck

Healthcare Issues Remain Unresolved

JULY 7, 2017: After more than a month of negotiations, House and Senate budget conferees have struck a deal on the Fiscal 2018 State Budget. Both branches of the legislature are expected to approve the Conference Report today.

Fall Remains Likely Timeframe For Action on WEP

Bipartisan Support in Congress Remains Strong

JULY 7, 2017: Retirees who have fallen victim to Social Security’s dreaded offset laws remain anxious for news of progress on federal reform legislation now pending before Congress.

Negotiations Continue Over FY18 State Budget

Negotiations Continue Over FY18 State Budget

3% State & Teacher COLA Awaits Final Approval

 JULY 6, 2017: Mass Retirees officials are closely monitoring developments on Beacon Hill, where House and Senate Conferees continue to negotiate the final details of the Fiscal Year 2018 State Budget.

Retirees Fight For a Voice on Group Insurance Commission

Fate Rests With House/Senate Budget Conferees

JUNE 21, 2017: Members who are insured under the state’s Group Insurance Commission (GIC) are asked to contact their State Representative and Senator in support of a proposal granting Mass Retirees a seat on the board governing the health insurance plan.

Saugus retiree increase warranted

JUNE 15, 2017: The approval of the Saugus retiree COLA cap from the $12,000 to $14,000 was reasonable, overdue and justified because of the current financial success of the Saugus retirement system.

Saugus Town Meeting members increase pension benefits for retirees

Town Meeting members approved a cost of living adjustment that will mean more monthly pension benefits for retired town employees.