RPEA Calls on the Town of Massena to Uphold Promises to Municipal Employees and Maintain Current Benefits for Retirees

Albany, NY – The Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA), which represents the interests of nearly 500,000 New York state, local, and public benefit corporation retirees, opposes a proposal by the Town of Massena that would diminish earned benefits for local municipal retirees and their beneficiaries.

The proposed plan by the Town of Massena Board of Supervisors would transfer Medicare-eligible retirees from traditional Medicare to a private Medicare Advantage Plan administered through AARP United Healthcare. The proposed plan:

• Includes additional costs, such as AARP membership fees;
• Enrolls retirees in the Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program;
• Does not guarantee out-of-state coverage within the proposed plan’s network; and
• Could restrict access to doctors and reduce treatment options.

“The Town’s lost revenues should not be placed on the shoulders of these retired public servants,” said RPEA Executive Director Edward Farrell. “Public service employees dedicate their lives to our communities – all with the promise and expectation that when they retire, their existing benefits will be protected. RPEA firmly believes that health benefits should not be diminished for those who have already retired. I urge the Board of Supervisors not to proceed with this plan of action.”

RPEA sent a letter to Town Supervisor Susan J. Bellor on Tuesday, November 1, 2022 expressing concerns over the proposal. Click here to view the letter.

The Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) is a powerful advocate for current and future government retirees. RPEA represents the interests of nearly 500,000 retirees, and their spouses and beneficiaries, from New York state and local governments, school districts, and public authorities. Learn more at: www.rpea.org.

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For Immediate Release: Monday, November 28, 2022

Media Contact: Chyresse Wells, cwells@corningplace.com