Introduction

The Retired Public Employees Council of Washington (RPEC) was formed in 1971 as an organization to promote the interests of retired public employees (state, county and municipal).

It was formally incorporated in July 1978, under the laws of the state of Washington as a non-profit corporation, to operate for charitable, social and educational purposes.

In September 1979, the organization became affiliated with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME, AFL-CIO). We are also affiliated with the Washington State Labor Council. The RPEC has membership in the National Council of Senior Citizens and the Washington Senior Citizens' Lobby.

RPEC currently has 42 Chapters statewide with over 12,000 members from state and local goverments.

Purpose: (Mission Statement)

Our mission is to unite public employee retirees for their mutual benefit and welfare. We do this by promoting legislation to improve financial and medical benefits, providing information to and otherwise supporting members, and working closely with other organizations.

Legislative:

The Retired Public Employees Council of Washington is the only organization which lobbies specifically on issues directly affecting PERS retirees.

Future Outlook:

RPEC is a dynamic organization which is taking the necessary steps to reach its great potential. The organization has become highly respected both as a political force and as a recognized leader in retiree issues, not only with our elected officials but with other active and retired employee organizations as well.

Significant Accomplishments:

In large part, due to RPEC's efforts, the Legislature:
• Passed and signed into law ESSB5777, giving political subdivision retirees the right to participate in their employers health care plans.
• Established a series of COLAs over the past several years which led to the adoption of the Uniform Plan I COLA in 1995.
• Committed to fully funding the retirement systems.
• Added a retiree member to the Public Employees Benefits Board which oversees the state's health insurance plans.

In 1998, RPEC won the healthcare lawsuit against the State of Washington worth $42.5 million. Money was returned to eligible retirees.

Appointment of an RPEC member to the Legislative Joint Committee on Pension Policy Task Force.

Medicare supllements of $160 million in 1999-2000 and $210 million in 2001-2002.

Researched and found several discount drug purchase options, including arranging bus trips to Canada to purchase prescription drugs.

What do we do?

Among other things:
· On behalf of our members, we track legislation on pensions, health care, and other areas critical to retirees. We propose legislation to assist retirees and oppose bills which may harm retirees.
· We pursue legal actions when necessary, maintain a legislative hotline during the session and issue a monthly newsletter to keep our members informed and up-to-date.

Our Current Focus:
· Return governance of the pension funds to an independent board whose members include retired and active public employees.
· Improve employer contribution rates and PERS COLAs (cost of living adjustments).
· Pass legislation allowing retirees from political subdivisions access to the health care insurance they had while employed. (ESSB5777 3/11/2002)
· Reduce the cost of prescription medications.
· Advocate for retirees on issues such as Medicare, Social Security and prescription medication coverage.

RPEC Structure:
· We have a staff to assist members Monday through Friday. Please see our Staff page.
· Our local chapters meet regularly where members share common interests and comraderie.
· Our Executive Board is composed of retirees and meets on a quarterly basis.
· Our AFSCME affiliation offers over a dozen benefits, including free legal service and special offers on insurance.