by Joan Deem
I recently attended the 2015 NYSTRS annual meeting as an elected delegate and want to share a few things that I think you will find interesting. Our NYS system is among the best and most well funded in the country, which means if everything remains the same in the State of New York, your pension benefits are guaranteed for your lifetime.That being said, there is a problem; in 2017 a question will be put forth on the November ballot in NY which asks, "Should there be a Constitutional Convention?" Every registered voter in new York has the opportunity to answer with a yes or no vote. Why might this be a problem? Because over 60% of New Yorkers are currently in favor of opening up the constitution and making changes that they think will benefit them as residents.Why is this definitely a problem?Because if the Constitution of the State of NY is opened for revision, ALL BETS ARE OFF on the sanctity of our pensions.That includes the pensions of teachers who will retire in the future and the pensions of teachers who are already retired.I'm not kidding. Your mom, grandfather, neighbor and first colleague who retired umpteen years ago, could have their pensions altered, reduced or even eliminated. Everything that you have been promised for your entire career, whether it currently spans 3 years or 33 years, could be diminished. The system itself could even be defunded as in the case of New Jersey's pension nightmares.I urge you to stay informed and be an active participant in the political process as it unfolds. Your union is fighting for you, please fight too.