According to Legislative Chairman Bill Hill, "Remember that our COLA (cost-of-living adjustment) law is local option, along with the provisions that determine how much a local retiree contributes to their health insurance. In fact, the entire group health insurance law itself (Chapter 32B) was accepted by cities, like Springfield, many years ago.

"It's easy to see then how damaging the governor's plan could have been for that city's retirees and survivors. There's little doubt that he also recognized the ramifications when he attached it to the bailout package, which everyone knew had to be done to save that city during its fiscal crisis."

On the same day that the governor filed his package, the Association began to marshal its forces. While our lobbyists worked with the firefighter, teacher and other union representatives at the State House, Association members from Springfield were called to action.

"Unfortunately, our city needed help through these tough times," comments Eleanor Egan, who is the widow of Springfield retiree Tom Egan. "But it shouldn't require dismantling of important parts to our retirement system and health insurance program.

"When I and my friends were notified, we immediately called our senators and reps to put a stop to it. While we did our part, I'm grateful for the work that our Association and unions did in Boston. That combined effort saved the day for us here in Springfield."