Texas House Bill HJR2

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/8/23
• Out of House Committee: 4/10/23
• Voted on by House: 5/1/23
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/19/23
• Voted on by Senate: 5/22/23
• Sent toSOS: 5/30/23

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the 88th Legislature to provide a cost-of-living adjustment to certain annuitants of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

Impact

If passed, HJR2 will enable the Texas Legislature to enhance the benefits provided to eligible retirees from the Teacher Retirement System, potentially improving the financial well-being of those individuals. While this could be viewed positively by retirees and advocates seeking to improve retirement security, concerns may arise over the implications for state funding and the prioritization of financial resources amid other pressing budgetary needs.

Summary

HJR2 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that would allow the 88th Legislature of Texas to provide cost-of-living adjustments to certain annuitants of the Teacher Retirement System. This amendment emphasizes the financial sustainability of the retirement system as confirmed by an actuarial valuation in February 2023. It allows the Legislature to appropriate funds from the general revenue to ensure these adjustments can be made. The proposed amendment is set to be voted on in an election scheduled for November 7, 2023.

Contention

The main points of contention regarding HJR2 involve the allocation of state funds and the potential strain on the budget. Advocates support the increase in benefits for retirees, arguing it's a necessary step towards preserving the financial security of educators in retirement. On the other hand, critics may raise concerns about the impact of these adjustments on overall state spending and whether similar enhancements could be extended to other public service sectors.