Club notes - Jan. 9

Curry County Association of Educational Retirees

The association met Jan. 4, with President Eileen Massey introducing area legislators to speak on members of interest to our members.

Rep. Martin Zamora said recent redistricting was not a positive change.

Sen. Pat Woods informed us of what to expect from upcoming budget process. We are currently flush with money thanks to oil and gas income, but are restricted in how to spend it. Medicaid will stay as is until at least next August. We can expect $3 million to $4 million in capital outlay for roads, more capital outlay for individual programs, and a 7% wage increase for teachers and other state employees. There will be a two-percent increase in employers’ contribution to ERB. Representative Randal Crowder said the Governor will announce the state budget framework soon. The state is second in the country in oil and gas production, and received $24 billion in pandemic-related relief. Rep. Jack Chatfield spoke about his district and lauded the efforts of our representatives. Finally, Sen. Stuart Ingle spoke next of our retirement plan, which is fully funded for the next 42 years. He said while the state is swimming in money, we need to finish our already-funded programs before starting new ones.

CCAER meets the first Tuesday of the month at 11 a.m. at K-Bob’s Steakhouse.

Information: Sandra Bates, 575-769-1607.