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The Weekly Roundup | 5/23/25

  • Writer: IFT
    IFT
  • 3 hours ago
  • 2 min read







This week’s edition of the Weekly Roundup is a special update on the Fair Recruitment and Retirement Act (SB2/HB2711) – the proposed legislation to fix unfair Tier 2 pensions for public workers.



URGENT TIER 2 UPDATE 


As you know, the IFT has been working with the We Are One Illinois union coalition to find a solution for the broken Tier 2 pension system for public workers. Last fall, we introduced the Fair Recruitment and Retirement Act, legislation that would address many of the shortcomings of Tier 2 pensions. Since then, we have been tirelessly advocating for it in Springfield and may finally have a path forward.


IFT President Dan Montgomery and Executive Vice President Stacy Davis Gates will be holding an urgent call for IFT members on Tuesday, May 27 at 7PM, to give you a critical update on Tier 2 pension legislation and what it means for our current political environment. Answer your phone to listen in.*


We have worked with legislators and the governor’s office to find a fix to Tier 2 that is fiscally responsible, strengthens the pension system, and does not add to the state’s unfunded pension liability or affect the state’s credit rating. Our amended proposal will make real progress to ensure public employees on Tier 2 can receive a fair pension while also strengthening the state’s finances for the long term.



This proposal improves how we pay down the unfunded pension liability and directly addresses the Tier 2 shortcomings for public employees by:

• Improving the final average salary calculation

• Lowering the retirement age

• Improving the cost of living adjustment

• Increasing the Social Security Wage base to address the “Safe Harbor” problem.


Listen in to Tuesday’s call for more information. And please know, this amended proposal is NOT a done deal! Legislators only have until May 31 to pass the bill. Please contact your state lawmakers over the weekend and next week and encourage them to support this amended legislation.


We know it will make a real difference in the retirement security for Tier 2 public employees throughout Illinois. Thank you in advance for taking action!


*If you don’t receive a call on Tuesday, you can dial (855) 756-7520 Ext.123373# to listen.




PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK



One week remains until the end of the legislative session. We’re making the final push on bills that affect our members.

Don’t forget to check out summer professional development from IFT and AFT.


We remember our brothers and sisters who gave the ultimate sacrifice defending our democracy. Happy Memorial Day & have a nice holiday weekend!




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