Teresa Botelho

I worked for the State of Rhode supporting individuals with developmental disabilities for 32 years 4 months. I was planning on staying for 35 years, but with the changes that were being implemented I thought hard and felt it best to leave. That was 2008. I knew I would have the COLA to keep my life afloat. Or so I thought. Then 3 years later more changes came the COLA changed. Those affected lost what was promised in our contract. And when we met a person from ERSRI. When I turned 62, I lost the additional incentive given by the state. That I knew would happen So again my pension dropped with out any of the COLA that was promised. I am lucky unlike the teachers, I do get social security. I took it 6 months earlier than planned I did work, but left because now I am the primary caregiver for my mother. I still have a mortgage. And of course other bills as like many others. My mortgage will be paid in 15 years when I will be 81.

It’ll be a miracle if I live that long. I have Stage 4 Kidney disease and have one kidney. Stress is not good for my health but I’ve tried not to let this situation with the COLA get to me. I will need a transplant in the future before my kidney fails. I am managing my health. I may never see the COLA if it’s reinstated.

I want you to know that I have lost most of my respect for the General Assembly, The Treasurer, Governor Governor Raimondo and all politicians. I think we were fooled. I still vote but that is my right. At least that is one thing not taken away. They have all done wrong by the retirees and all those still working. I read in the paper awhile back that there was a huge surplus in the budget. Why wasn’t the money used for the pension system? We are taxpayers! We put in our time. And some still are.. For those that have forgotten, I believe when there was a Banking Crisis, money was taken from the pension system to bail out the crisis. Ohh, so why can’t the pension system be bailed out. Thank you for your time! I appreciate this!

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