Molly Janczyk responds to the STRS proposal adopted 1/27/11

From Molly Janczyk, January 27, 2011
Subject: The OEA makes a statement re. STRS's latest plan........they don't like it

OEA says the plan cuts too deep for actives and doesn't offer flexibility to actives nearing retirement. WHAT? Phasing in to 2023 for some changes is not flexible enough! Please, where was flexible when retirees bore the burden of saving health care overnight forcing selling of homes and cars, cashing in their finances and skipping or cutting drugs and medical treatment, opting for Basic coverage due to expenses when they were ill and needed better care, returning to work after retirement was stolen from them from which we will never recover.

OEA is screaming, in my opinion, because it wants all of them possible to be eligible for the 35 yr. rule and 88% of their final 3 years to be in effect until 2015. It should be offered in 2012 along with retiree COLA reduction. So far, actives have had their salaries affected by .9% when retirees costs increased by over 800%. Under 65 yrs of age, medical monthly premiums alone were $1150 for self and spouse last year. Never thought I couldn't wait to be 65 for some relief. Some retirement.

Then the RX costs with the average retiree on 6-10 meds. This year I have to save $400 a month to meet RX costs and that is being 65. It is time for actives to take an interest in their retirements and be happy with 77% of their FAS when most got 66%. They will retire at much higher salaries with 77% pensions or more. Greedy, OEA!

But, it always was about OEA and never concerned about past actives - current retirees. You want longer so you can get the 88% your former OEA active convicted STRS Board members put into place. Thank goodness, some fairness prevailed with the retired Board members and investment appointees to the STRS Board. Thank goodness we have legislation, thanks to SB133 (Leone, Lazares, Wachtmann) putting into place 11 STRS Board members so that it was no longer totally controlled by OEA active Board members WHO VOTED TODAY TO STOP language allowing STRS to increase to 4% if necessary in the future if necessary. OEA Board members.

If the Governor gets involved, there are serious problems and OEA is always warning US about what gets into print! Gee, Bill L., might not get your 88% along with the 6 figure salary and other perks you enjoy. But, you're just worried about actives out there aren't you?

Unfair as usual: OEA
My opinion.
Molly J