Advocacy

Montana Retired Educators’ Association                            8/27/07

Montana Retired Educators’ Association is composed of voices from sixteen units in this vast state.  Each unit elects their own president, president-elect, vice president, secretary and treasurer.  The Executive Board is elected by members of the sixteen units to guide the direction of the organization. 

MREA is an affiliation of AARP in each of the states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U. S.Virgin Islands.  MREA is known as AARP’s Educator Community.

Background: Retired Teachers’ Association was founded in 1947 by retired educator, Dr. Percy Andrus.  National members share a commitment to learning, voluntary service and civic participation.  NRTA members represent interests of 50+ educators at local, state and national levels.  Members are dedicated to educational opportunity, advocacy and the economic security of all generations.

Update: In past years, retired educators received a defined benefit plan pension.  However, the decline of the stock market in 2001 – 2003 affected the state’s finances and Teachers Retirement System, along with three other pension systems, is no longer actuarially sound, according to the constitution of the state of Montana. There is enough money left for pensions of presently retired educators.  The future for new teachers is pending.  

Intermediary:   During the Special Session of the 2005 Legislature, Governor Brian Schweitzer fused $100 Million into the Teachers Retirement to shore up their System.  It was an enormous band-aide and greatly appreciated. 

Present:  Again, with the 2007 Legislative Session in session, the Governor and Budget Director, David Ewer, indicate they are willing to share another $100 Million to shore up Teachers Retirement System.  Preceding the 2007 Legislative Session, the State Administration and Veterans Affairs Interim Committee asked for proposals to be submitted to eliminate existing problems with four pension systems in our state.  Bill Number LC0288 was drafted for study.  Shortly thereafter, Bill Type Number HB 63, was drafted by Dave Bohyer at the request of the Teachers Retirement Board.  John Musgrove is the primary sponsor.  With a number of changes mentioned in HB 63, the positive consequence of this action, is that Teachers Retirement System will again be actuarially sound.  HB 63 has been heard in the State Administration  Committee.  HB 63 can be found on  http://laws.leg.state.mt.us/pls/laws 07  Montana’s web site.   

Future prospects:  Montana Retired Educators Association is asking that a legislative study group be appointed to design a pension for ”new”educators, just entering the teaching field.  Some states have chosen a 401 k for beginners.  This option is not a secure pension.  After  teaching in the classrooms of Montana for 25 to 40 years, educators have earned a secure retirement!  Quality teachers provide a quality education to the children in our Treasure State.                                                                                                                                                                      

                                                                                                                                                     3/1/07