Texas House Bill HR281

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Expressing support for the continuation of a defined benefit plan for retired participants in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

Impact

The resolution aims to secure the interests of retired educators, many of whom rely solely on the TRS pension for their livelihood. It highlights the importance of the defined benefit plan as a safety net for those who devoted their careers to public education, often without ancillary social security benefits. The passage of HR281 would ensure no changes are made that could undermine the financial security provided by the current retirement system. It sends a clear message that the state recognizes and values the contributions of retired teachers.

Summary

House Resolution 281 expresses legislative support for maintaining the defined benefit plan for retired participants in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS). Established in 1936, this system provides lifetime retirement benefits calculated on factors such as age, years of service, and average salary, rather than account balances. This resolution is significant in affirming that the current model provides greater financial security compared to proposed alternatives that may subject retirees to market risks and potential loss of income.

Contention

Opposition to a potential shift towards a defined contribution plan centers on the uncertainty and risk it introduces to participants. Such plans would require teachers to manage their own investments and assume potential losses, which could be particularly detrimental to those who are not financially savvy or lack the ability to plan for retirement effectively. Furthermore, the resolution emphasizes the distinction between the current system's guaranteed income and the volatility associated with defined contribution models, indicating that any change would not only be less favorable for retirees but also jeopardize their long-term financial health.