Vision e-News: Election Reconnection, Public Act 127, and Member Opportunities
October 2024
Chapter Spotlight: Elections Bring Reconnection at the Washtenaw Chapter Candidate Forum
Candidate forums are routine election-season events for many MARSP chapters, offering members the chance to engage local candidates on key issues impacting retirees. In a world dominated by digital communication, these events are also an opportunity for public school retirees to connect with friends, colleagues, and even former students.
On Friday, September 20th, Washtenaw Chapter members gathered at a local banquet hall to meet a few of their local candidates. Chapter leaders greeted attendees with name tags before guiding them to tables arranged by district. The thoughtful organization and friendly atmosphere (complete with food!) eased members and candidates into conversations that blended the personal and political.
After words of welcome, candidates took seats at a long table facing constituents and the forum officially began. They took turns answering pre-written questions about their backgrounds, platforms, and plans, including “What measures would you take to pay off our pension fund’s debt while ensuring the protection of our health benefits?” During this question, one candidate, Representative Morgan Foreman, suddenly paused mid-answer. Beaming, she waved to the back corner of the room.
“I see one of my former teachers in the room! How are you, Ms. Alter?”
Catherine Alter, a longtime MARSP member, responded with a wave as Rep. Foreman continued her remarks. After the forum, the two women navigated the crowd to embrace and catch up on the years since Foreman sat in Alter’s classroom.
“You always hope your students take something valuable from your class,” said Ms. Alter. “It’s wonderful to see them pick up the torch and carry it forward.”
In-person gatherings and the potential for connection
The reunion between teacher and student was a small reminder of the lasting, multigenerational connections formed throughout a career in the public school system. When those roots extend to new contexts (such as a local candidate forum) they have the power to enrich and humanize our civic discourse.
While technology today provides incredible tools and platforms for connection, there’s something special about meeting face-to-face. MARSP encourages members to get involved in their community, not just to stay informed, but to enjoy the (re)connections that come with it. After all, Facebook “likes” don’t compare to a heartfelt hug from a former student and this written recap does not do Washtenaw’s candidate forum justice.
Well done, Washtenaw Chapter!
Want to get involved? Here are a few ways to plug into your community:
- Local clubs or organizations: Visit www.marsp.org/community to find your local chapter or check out opportunities through other local organizations. Look for clubs that align with personal interests, such as book clubs, gardening groups, or hobbyist organizations.
- Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to local nonprofits, schools, or community centers. Many organizations welcome retirees for tutoring, mentoring, or administrative support.
- Community events: Participate in local fairs, festivals, or farmer’s markets to meet new people and stay informed about community happenings.
- Classes: Enroll in adult education or audit a community college course!
- Local government: Attend town hall meetings or join committees focused on community issues, such as planning, parks, or public safety.
- Libraries or cultural centers: These venues often host events, workshops, and lectures that provide opportunities to learn and connect with others.
- Religious or spiritual groups: Joining a church or faith-based organization can offer a sense of community and provide volunteer opportunities.
- Alumni associations: Many schools have alumni groups that organize events and social activities, offering a chance to reconnect with former classmates and make new friends.
- Fitness classes or groups: Many community centers and gyms offer classes for retirees, such as yoga, tai chi, or walking clubs, promoting health and social engagement.
- Nature and outdoor activities: Participate in hiking groups, nature walks, or local conservation efforts to enjoy the outdoors and meet like-minded individuals.
MPSERS Healthcare and Public Act 127: What you need to know
Key takeaways:
- The Governor signed House Bill 5803 into law (now Public Act 127 of 2024) on October 3, 2024.
- Recent estimates put retiree healthcare (OPEB) at close to 140% funded. MARSP confirmed there are procedures to ensure the fund remains at or above 100% in the future. In the event of any new MPSERS healthcare or pension debt, the state will promptly address it through the School Aid Fund.
- MARSP celebrates full funding for MPSERS healthcare and looks forward to continuing the work to achieve the same for the pension fund!
Governor signs House Bill 5803 Into Law
On Oct. 3, 2024, the Governor signed House Bill 5803, now Public Act 127 of 2024, to support the FY2025 state budget. This legislation amends the MPSERS Act to direct excess funds from MPSERS healthcare (Other Post-Employment Benefits or OPEB) towards school operations. It also permanently lowers the payroll rate districts must contribute to MPSERS.
MPSERS Healthcare Fully Funded and Secured for the Future
As of the 2023 valuation, MPSERS healthcare funding stood at 126%. Recent estimates now place it closer to 140%, well above fully funded.
“We celebrate reaching full funding for MPSERS healthcare and look forward to continuing the work to achieve the same for the pension fund,” said Legislative Committee Co-chairs Georgia Sharp and Chuck Abshagen.
MARSP’s top priority is protecting the current and future standing of MPSERS pension and healthcare funds. MARSP confirmed there are procedures to ensure the healthcare fund remains at or above 100% in the future. In the event of any new MPSERS healthcare or pension debt, the state will promptly address it through the School Aid Fund.
Your Support Powers Budget Oversight and Advocacy
Once again, MARSP’s presence in Lansing safeguarded retiree interests during this year’s budget process. As we prepare for the coming year, your continued support enables us to monitor legislative developments and influence policy decisions. THANK YOU for partnering with MARSP to protect the rights of Michigan’s current and future public school retirees.
Members tour the Colorado Rockies by Train!
Ready to explore with us?
Learn about our 2025 tours: America’s Cowboy Country, Spotlight on Tuscany, Spotlight on Washington D.C., Britain & Ireland, and Greece Island Hopper. Spaces are limited, so don’t wait to register!
Latest Travel Webinars
Exploring Britain & Ireland
Travel dates: September 6 – 20, 2025
Greece Island Hopper
Travel dates: September 24 — October 04, 2025
Click the buttons below to replay informational webinars about MARSP’s 2025 trips. Access all upcoming destinations at www.marsp.org/travel.
Avoiding Scams in Retirement
Fraud can happen to anyone. As phone, text, and email scams evolve and become more sophisticated, MARSP encourages you to learn the signs and seek resources to help reduce your risk.
In MARSP’s webinar How to Avoid Scams in Retirement, Michigan State Police Trooper Katelyn Hammond discusses the telltale signs of a scam, what to do if you are the victim, and how to protect yourself from potential scams.
Keep an eye out for these common scam ingredients:
- Pressure to act quickly
- Requests for sensitive personal information
- Unusual payment type
More tips: Beware of Scams Targeting Older Adults
Reporting scams
- National Elder Fraud Hotline
If you think you or someone in your life has been the target of a scam, contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 or 833-372-8311. - Report a scam to the Federal Trade Commission:
https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
