PERS is the retirement system for Oregon teachers, firefighters, nurses and other public employees. We work hard and are proud of our public service. Even though many of us earn less than we would in the private sector, we believe in serving our communities.

Unfortunately, some lawmakers and special interest groups continue to blame teachers and firefighters for Oregon’s budget problems. They are pushing cuts to PERS, despite the fact that current employees are not cause of the state’s financial woes, and further reductions to our pension benefits will do nothing to solve the problem. The Portland Association of Teachers, and our statewide union, the Oregon Education Association, will continue to stand up for our members and defend against these unfair attacks.

It’s important for educators to get the facts about PERS. Download and share this PERS factsheet from the Oregon Education Association.