Political Action Updates: April 13, 2021

We really need your help in improving the COLA base for all retirees. We can’t do this alone. Please take the time to write a letter to Mr. Smyth of the Boston Retirement Board and Mayor Kim Janey. If you live in Boston please also send letters to your District Councilor and the Councilors at Large.

Facts based on March data from Boston Retirement System Retirees list:

• There are approximately 12,513 retirees in BPS
• The average pension is $45,876
• 3700 earn below living wage of $30,000
• 1167 retirees eligible for $14,000 COLA (9%)
• 1250 retirees are not eligible for $15,000 COLA (10%)
• 1333 retirees are not eligible for $16,000 COLA (10.6%)
• 1417 retirees are not eligible for $17,000 COLA (11%)
• 1500 retirees are not eligible for $18000 COLA (12%)

Boston’s tax revenues have increased by record-breaking amounts. Since 2011, mandated Medicare has reduced the City’s health insurance costs by 10’s of millions of dollars. Retirees have seen increases in T fares, taxes, utilities, housing costs, medical costs, etc. Unlike BRB COLAs, Social Security increases are based on the full amount.

Written testimony should be mailed or e-mailed for inclusion in the record to those listed here.