An Overview For Retirees

JULY 2010 VOICE: Recently, we reminded our members that the Commonwealth offers a property tax relief program, known as the "Circuit Breaker". Since then, hundreds of members contacted us with questions regarding the program, and we hope that they have been helped.

In our March Voice, we also reminded our members that there are several property tax exemption/abatement programs, some of which my be offered in their communities. Here we've highlighted the major features in these programs.

Adopts Association's Proposal

JULY 2010 VOICE: At a time when much of the public focus has centered on reducing the pension benefits of future retirees, the state Senate moved toward balancing the debate by unexpectedly passing amendments to its Municipal Relief bill and FY11 budget that adopts the Association's legislative proposal (S1044) increasing the minimum pensions of survivors.

The amendments, sponsored by Senator Ken Donnelly (D-Arlington) who is S1044's lead sponsor, increase the minimum pension for  Section 101 survivors of disability retirees (retired prior to November 1996) from the current $6,000 to a new $9,000. Also included are widows of employees, who dying of non-work related causes, who will see their basic benefit increased from $3,000 to $6,000. It is automatic for the state/teachers systems and is subject to local acceptance.

Governor Introduces Legislation

MARCH 2010 VOICE: Pension reform's "Phase II" is on the move, taking shape in legislation filed by Governor Patrick (HB4440). Now in the hands of the Joint Committee on Public Service, it is far from being a finished product at this time.

Budget Struggles at Session Mid-Point

JANUARY 2010 VOICE: The 2009-2010 Massachusetts Legislative Session has reached the mid-point, with the Legislature set to complete formal business on July 30.

As the state's economy continues to suffer through the recession, Beacon Hill leaders struggle to plug gapping holes left in the Commonwealth's budget. Observers fear that there could be as much as a $1.5 billion structural deficit for the coming FY11 fiscal year.