Disaster Relief Fund

Ohio PSU on strike

Ohio ASU reaches tentative agreement

As of 12:01 a.m., Ohio PSU members took to the picket lines after the Aug. 31 expiration of their contract with the Ohio Education Association. Despite continued bargaining all summer, the two sides were unable to reach an agreement. 

Late yesterday afternoon, Ohio ASU was able to reach a tentative two-year agreement with OEA. Nevertheless, ASU will not cross the picket line while their union brothers and sisters are on strike. 

In a message of support to PSU this morning, NSO President Chuck Agerstrand wrote, “Brothers and sisters, I’m here to tell you that your commitment, your strength—your courage and your power—has never been more important to the future of this labor movement within NSO. . . I, along with so many NSO members, congratulate you, your leadership and your bargaining team on your courageous stand. We support your efforts.” 

To follow the strike activity, go to the PSU blog at http://ohiopsu.squarespace.com/.

Victory is sweet with passage of  Pension Relief

The House and Senate have passed critical relief for single- and multi-employer private pension plan sponsors—including NEA affiliates--to deal with dramatic market losses. The legislation will help state affiliates avert staff layoffs.

It’s not certain when the bill will go to the President for signature.

NSO President Chuck Agerstand said, “We’ve been fighting this battle for a long time. Thanks to your messages to members of Congress, we scored a victory,”
For single-employers, the pension relief bill provides:

• An extended period for single-employer defined benefit plans to amortize certain shortfall amortization bases.
• The application of an extended amortization period to plans subject to prior law funding rules.
• The suspension of certain funding level limitations.
• The temporary allowance of election to apply balances against minimum required contribution.

Multiple employers will see relief with:

• The optional use of 30-year amortization periods.
• Optional longer recovery periods for plans in endangered or critical status.
• The modification of certain amortization extensions under prior law.
• An alternative default schedule for plans in endangered or critical status.
• A transition rule for certifications of plan status.

2011 Winter Advocacy Retreat

NSO is seeking proposals for the 2011 Winter Advocacy Retreat. If you have an area of expertise to share with your colleagues from around the country to help them become better, stronger advocates, please complete the Request for Proposals (RFP) and return it to Lynn Adler, NSO Vice President for Program by July 25, 2010.   

Request for Proposal