Update 3/4/26:
Governor Shapiro delivered his 2026-2027 budget address to a joint session of the legislature on Tuesday, February 3. The overall proposed spending number is $53.3 billion with few new revenue streams. A COLA for pre-Act 9 retirees was not included in his proposal; however, the Administration has indicated it would support a COLA should it pass the legislature.
Over the past two decades, the cost of essential goods and services has risen dramatically, while pensions have remained the same or, in some cases, effectively declined due to annual increases in healthcare costs. According to Consumer Price Index (CPI) data tracking price changes since the early 2000s, key categories such as housing and medical care have more than doubled in price, and the broader food and beverage category has also increased by over 100% over this period.
Both House and Senate Appropriations Committees are conducting budget hearings through March, this is followed by months of policy discussions – which will include the COLA – that lead up to the final budget in late June. This collaborative budget process creates an important opportunity for COLA advocates to make the case to legislators and key staff. We need to highlight the financial challenges facing retired members and urge inclusion of a COLA in the final budget.
Use the link below to send a message to our Senators urging their support for a COLA for pre-Act 9 retirees.