John Curry to Mike Nehf: Tens of thousands of STRS retirees would like to know if their pensions are guaranteed

From John Curry, November 7, 2008
Subject: Mr. Nehf - please respond this time
Mr. Neff,

The letter below was sent to you on 10/31/08 but, as of today, this letter was not addressed by you. I am asking you the same questions that she asked below...myself and tens of thousands of STRS retirees would also like to read your answer that, as of yet, has not been tendered. The answer to these questions is of utmost importance to all of us and I feel that we are owed the courtesy of an explanation.

Thank you,

John Curry

A CORE member

From Kathie Bracy, October 31, 2008
Subject: Pension fund guarantee?

Dear Mr. Nehf,

According to the SERS website (http://www.ohsers.org/GD/Templates/Pages/Sers/gdPageTemplate001.aspx?page=443#mmo), SERS retirees have a guaranteed pension: "A SERS pension is guaranteed by Ohio law (section 3309.661 of the Revised Code) and cannot be reduced due to investment losses."
In checking STRS Ohio's website, I can find nothing about a guarantee for STRS retirees' pensions, just reassurances such as:
"Times like these are a good time to remind our members that STRS Ohio pension benefits are safe and secure."
and
"Every month, we have thousands of retirees who can count on receiving a pension check from STRS Ohio — regardless of market fluctuations."
Assurances are nice, but do we have an actual guarantee that our pensions are safe in the same manner as SERS pensions? What can you tell me about this?

Thank you.

Kathie Bracy