October 3, 2012

3 unions join Maine retirees lawsuit

The unions say that the elimination of cost-of-living adjustments for retired employees violates a contract clause and the Constitution.

The Associated Press

PORTLAND — Three public worker unions have been allowed to join a lawsuit against the Maine Public Employees Retirement System over the elimination of cost-of-living adjustments.

A federal judge on Tuesday ruled that the Maine State Employees Association, Maine Education Association and Maine State Troopers Association can join the Maine Association of Retirees in its lawsuit filed in February.

The 15,000-member retirees association sued the retirement system over the elimination of cost-of-living adjustments for three years and a new cap on cost-of-living increases after that.

The unions say in the complaint that the elimination of cost-of-living adjustments for retired employees violated the Constitution as an unlawful taking of property without just compensation, and a violation of the contract clause.

The retirement system says the elimination will save the state millions of dollars.

Were you interviewed for this story? If so, please fill out our accuracy form

Send question/comment to the editors




Further Discussion

Here at KJonline.com we value our readers and are committed to growing our community by encouraging you to add to the discussion. To ensure conscientious dialogue we have implemented a strict no-bullying policy. To participate, you must follow our Terms of Use.

Questions about the article? Add them below and we’ll try to answer them or do a follow-up post as soon as we can. Technical problems? Email them to us with an exact description of the problem. Make sure to include:
  • Type of computer or mobile device your are using
  • Exact operating system and browser you are viewing the site on (TIP: You can easily determine your operating system here.)


Most…