The 2024 regular session of the Alabama Legislature adjourned sine die on Thursday, and ARSEA/APEAL can point to several accomplishments on the legislative front.

The $3.4 billion General Fund budget that was approved fully funded the Annual Required Contribution (ARC) that actuaries determine is necessary to keep the RSA fiscally healthy and sound.

Lawmakers also increased the per participant appropriation for the State Employees’ Insurance Board, which provides health coverage to both active and retired state agency workers and their dependents.

The Alabama House unanimously passed ARSEA/APEAL’s benefit increase plan, which was sponsored by State Rep. Steve Clouse (R - Ozark) and House Ways & Means General Fund Chair Rex Reynolds (R - Hazel Green), that would allow state and local governments to once again award regular retirement benefit increases without adversely affecting the finances of the RSA.

The legislation, however, fell victim to political gamesmanship and double-dealing with no advance notice of plans to derail the legislation.

When working with the Legislature, lawmakers must trust that they always receive good and accurate information from association lobbyists - which we always work to provide - and association lobbyists much trust that the words and assurances provided to us by lawmakers are honest and valid.

That clearly did not occur in this case.

ARSEA/APEAL will bring the legislation back next year and each year after until it passes. While some may view retiree increases as “greedy,” we believe in the value and hard work of state employees and their dedication to public service. 

The events surrounding our legislation during the 2024 session demonstrate the importance of making legislative contacts by sending emails to your lawmakers, calling their offices, monitoring their actions, and holding them accountable.