Veronica Adams 2/5/25 Veronica Adams 2/5/25

Fighting for Fairness: AFSCME Texas Retirees Push for a 13th Check and a COLA Adjustment at the Legislature

For more than two decades, Texas state retirees have been waiting for a well-deserved pension increase. Since 2001—when Rick Perry was in his first months as governor—retirees have gone without a boost to their pensions, even as the cost of living has skyrocketed by 78%. The rising cost of essentials like food, housing, and healthcare has made it harder than ever for retirees to make ends meet.

That’s why AFSCME Texas Retirees is fighting at the Capitol to demand action.

Veronica Adams 12/13/24 Veronica Adams 12/13/24

A Step Forward, but Far From Enough: Fighting for a Real COLA for Texas Retirees

After more than 20 years without a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), some retired state employees will see a small increase in their pension checks starting in January 2025.

Veronica Adams 8/5/24 Veronica Adams 8/5/24

AFSCME Texas Retirees Endorse Colin Allred For U.S. Senate

AFSCME Texas members have proudly endorsed labor champion Colin Allred to represent Texas in the U.S. Senate.

Veronica Adams 2/26/24 Veronica Adams 2/26/24

Exercise Your Right to Vote During Early Voting

Early voting marks a crucial moment for retirees across the state. In the face of challenges at the Texas Capitol and beyond, we must recognize the power we hold in our hands — the power to vote.

Sloan Wyatt 1/12/24 Sloan Wyatt 1/12/24

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Legacy

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we come together to celebrate more than just a day on the calendar. Dr. King, who fought for racial equality and justice, also understood the pivotal role of unions and the labor movement in advancing these noble causes.

Sloan Wyatt 10/18/23 Sloan Wyatt 10/18/23

Retiree Groups Join Forces to Add a 13th Check

Last week, eight separate State of Texas retiree groups joined forces and called upon Gov. Abbott to add a 13th check to the special session’s call.

Sloan Wyatt 10/10/23 Sloan Wyatt 10/10/23

Fighting for a 13th Check During and After the Special Session

We’ve reached out to Gov. Abbott urging him to include a 13, the check for ERS recipients, to the call of this month's legislative session. For more than two decades, we’ve seen our pensions and benefits as retired State of Texas employees remain stagnant without receiving the crucial COLA we deserve. The challenges of living in an ever-changing world have only grown. It's high time our leaders recognize the invaluable contributions we made to Texas and ensure our pensions can support us during the retirement we’ve earned.