13 Ways a “13th Check Helps: No. 2 – Learning from Texas Teachers

For decades, they worked on public employees’ salaries, going above and beyond every day to serve the people of Texas and ensure a brighter future for the state.

When they retired, the cost of living kept rising. But their monthly pension annuity stayed the same  — until the Texas Legislature finally did the right thing. Lawmakers have given them a well-deserved “13th check” two separate times over the past few years.

That’s the story of retired Texas teachers who spent their lives educating young Texans.

It’s time for it to also be the story of retired State of Texas workers — from state troopers and corrections officers to nurses, first responders, and parks employees — who spent their careers making Texas healthier, stronger, and safer.

Texas has enough money in its budget to provide a 13th check to all retired state workers, just like retired teachers have gotten. Instead of tax breaks for the wealthy, the Legislature should help the retired public servants who spent their careers making Texas safer, stronger, and healthier. 

A 13th check would make good on the state’s commitment to these longtime workers day in and day out — just as we’ve done for teachers.

Be sure you register to vote and find out about joining AFSCME Texas Retirees so you can make a difference.