National Poverty in America Awareness Month is observed every year in January. This observance aims to recognize the severe conditions of poverty that many people live in. It provides an opportunity to learn more about this social issue, raise awareness among others, and understand how everyone can help.
Alva Littlejohn, who served on the Lubbock Fire Pension for 32 years and as a firefighter for 29 years in the City of Lubbock, died on Dec. 11, 2023. Family and friends remembered him during a visitation on Dec. 17 and funeral services on Dec. 18. He was 79.
The Employee Benefit Research Institute recently published an Issue Brief titled Shining a Spotlight on Caregivers in the Workplace: Findings from the 2023 Workplace Wellness Survey. The brief examines the retirement prospects, knowledge, preparations for retirement, and retirement experiences for unpaid caregivers versus those who do not provide this care.
TEXPERS' Board of Directors has decided to close the Association's leased office space. The board made this decision considering changing work environments and TEXPERS' desire to reduce costs and increase efficiency. TEXPERS staff will continue to work remotely, and we assure you that this change will not affect our services or operations. We will continue to serve you with the same dedication and professionalism as always.
The Texas Pension Review Board, which oversees the implementation of legislative requirements for the minimum educational training of public retirement fund trustees and administrators, is reviewing its program needs and is asking for feedback from pension system leaders and the public.
As we celebrate Thanksgiving this week, I want to thank the Texas state and local government employees who have dedicated their careers to serving their communities. These public servants have positively impacted the lives of millions of Texans, from teachers and firefighters to police officers and metro workers. They deserve our respect and appreciation for their hard work and sacrifice.
November is American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of the indigenous people of the Americas. It is also a time to acknowledge their important contributions to the public sector, such as health, education, conservation, and governance.
A panel of four actuaries who work with pension funds across Texas and the U.S. shared their insights and experiences on various topics, such as city participation, intensive reviews, and benchmarking, at the Texas Local Fire Fighters Retirement Act (TLFFRA) Education Foundation Conference on Oct. 3, 2023. The panel was moderated by David Fee, the staff actuary for the Texas Pension Review Board (PRB). Getting municipalities to increase their participation was the hot topic of the panel.
Kendall S. Thomas, Sr., a prominent public employee retirement sector figure, died on Oct. 11, 2023. He was a longtime member of the Texas Association of Public Employee Retirement Systems, including serving as a former board member.
The Federal Reserve Report on Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2022 indicates Americans' progress toward retirement savings goals declined. October is National Retirement Security Month, which encourages individuals to consider their retirement goals and take action to secure them. A Texas public employee pension system is ideal for guiding its annuitants through the process.
The Texas Pension Review Board is reviewing several of the state agency's key rules and seeking public input.
On Oct. 6, Americans across the country celebrate German-American Day, a day dedicated to honoring the rich cultural heritage and contributions of German-Americans to the United States. While many may associate German-Americans with their delicious cuisine, beautiful music, and strong work ethic, it's essential to recognize their significant role in public service. German-Americans have a long history of serving as public employees, contributing to the U.S. economy, and strengthening our communities. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of this contribution and why it is crucial to protect the pensions of those who serve as public employees.
With a commitment to furthering the progress he says was achieved during the 88th Regular Legislative Session and two preceding special sessions this summer, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Oct. 5 unveiled his agenda for the third legislative special session of the year. The special session starts at 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 9.
In an era defined by evolving workplace dynamics and a heightened focus on employee well-being, the 2023 Workplace Wellness Survey offers a comprehensive look into the well-being and retirement preparedness of employees in the United States. Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) conducted this survey on financial well-being, employment-based health insurance, and retirement benefits in the workplace.
Are you ready for an unforgettable experience that combines professional development, networking opportunities, and the chance to celebrate three decades of excellence in pensions? Look no further than the Texas Association of Public Employee Retirement Systems (TEXPERS) 35th Anniversary Conference, set to take place from April 7 to 10, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Dallas in Dallas, Texas.
Good news. Congress is avoiding a government shutdown, at least through Nov. 17. As news of a government shutdown captures headlines nationwide, it might seem like a distant issue for those entrusted with managing Texas public employee pension systems. After all, the daily operations of pension systems are largely independent of federal politics, right? Well, not quite. In this blog post, we'll explore why any potential government shutdown should concern trustees and administrators of public employee pension systems and why staying informed is crucial for safeguarding the financial futures of countless retirees.
Research papers and studies serve as a gateway to the latest advancements and trends in the field of public employee retirement systems. They provide access to cutting-edge knowledge, allowing trustees and administrators to stay ahead of the curve. By staying informed about the latest research, pension fund leaders can make informed decisions that can significantly impact the retirement systems they oversee. Through networking with its partner organizations plus the Association's investment, consultants, actuaries, vendors, and other service providers members and communicating with retirement and investment industry research groups, TEXPERS shares reports, research papers, briefs, and other documents with its members.
Congress raised the debt limit this year to prevent a government default. They are working to agree on next year's budget by Sept. 30.
Parents' Day, observed this year on Sunday, July 23, is a special occasion that allows us to express gratitude and appreciation for our parents' love, sacrifices, and guidance. While we often celebrate this day by showering them with gifts and affection, it is also an opportune time to reflect upon the significance of a secure retirement for our elderly parents. In this blog post, we will explore why Parents' Day serves as a timely reminder to prioritize and ensure our aging parents' financial well-being.
On June 29, the Texas Pension Board received updates on the recent progress and changes pension funds have made. The City of Midland and pension officials presented their case at the beginning of the meeting, and PRB staff actuary David Fee followed on with additional reports:
