Letter to the Editor

Retired teacher has support for legislation

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

To the editor:

The Indiana General Assembly completed its work on Friday, March 14, 2008 with the Governor taking final action on Monday, March 24, 2008.

As executive director of the Indiana Retired Teachers Association, I would like to thank each member of the area's legislative delegation for supporting the final versions of House Bill 1019 and Senate Bills 51 and 72.

These legislative initiatives are important to retired educators who dedicated their professional lives to helping Hoosier children reach their potential.

As part of the discussion of controlling property taxes, a provision that affects many senior citizens on fixed income was enacted.

This initiative will limit property tax bill increases to no more than 2 percent annually for individuals aged 65 and over who make less than $30,000 annually (single) or less than $40,000 (joint), if the assessed value of their home is less than $160,000.

In an economic climate that is uncertain, your area legislators had the insight and vision to address concerns of many of their constituents.

As a retired educator myself, I say thank you to each state representative and state senator who listened to retired educators at their town meetings and at committee hearings. We appreciate your concern and positive action.

Ralph D. Ayres

IRTA