Dear Supporter of RI Pension Improvement,

The fight to improve retirement security for Rhode Island public employees is happening right now.

Legislation establishing the “Rule of 90” has already been heard in the House, and the Senate Finance Committee will hear the bill this Thursday. RIFTHP is urging members to take action immediately and tell lawmakers to support S 3251 and H 7390.

The Rule of 90 would allow eligible teachers, state employees, and municipal workers to retire without penalty when their age and years of service equal 90. For many public employees, this would restore retirement flexibility lost under current law and provide a fairer path to retirement after decades of service.

Too many public employees are being forced to work longer simply to avoid retirement penalties. Educators and public workers dedicate their careers to Rhode Island communities, often in demanding and stressful environments. This legislation recognizes that long service should be respected—not punished.

📄 RULE OF 90 (H 7390 / S 3251)
Retirement Security for Public Employees

Rhode Island public employees deserve a fair and predictable path to retirement. This legislation restores flexibility and helps stabilize the workforce.

🎯 What the Bill Does
• Establishes a Rule of 90 retirement option
• Allows retirement at age 60 with 30+ years of service, without penalty
• Applies to teachers, state workers, and MERS employees
• Builds on the current Rule of 95 framework

🧠 Why This Matters
• Restores fairness after the 2011 pension cuts
• Provides flexibility for health and family needs
• Supports workers who are not covered by Social Security
• Aligns retirement access more closely with private sector norms

🏫 Supports Schools & Employers
• Helps address teacher shortages
• Improves recruitment and retention
• Allows replacement of top-step employees with newer hires at lower cost

💰 Responsible Investment
Estimated annual cost (ERSRI, Jan. 2024):
• $2.5 million – State workers
• $9.7 million – Teachers
• $500,000 – Municipal employees

Take action now. Send a message to your senators and representatives today and urge them to support S 3251 and H 7390 before the hearing.

Rhode Island public employees deserve a fair path to retirement after decades of service. Your voice can help move this legislation forward.

In Solidarity,

Maribeth Calabro
President, RIFTHP