The Idaho AARP is speaking out vehemently against HCR 42, the bill that passed the House today to block a scheduled 1 percent cost of living increase for state retirees next month. “This legislation says the state of Idaho does not value its retirees – that’s a bad message for both retirees and state employees,” said Jim Wordelman, state director. He released figures showing how many state retirees there are in each Idaho county, and estimated millions in losses to local economies if those retirees don't get their COLA. “The loss of a COLA will mean more Idaho retirees are forced to struggle in their golden years," Wordelman said. "We’re calling on Idaho senators to take a stand and do what’s right for people who gave so much to the state.”

The bill zoomed over to the Senate today, where it's been assigned to the Senate Commerce & Human Resources Committee; the House suspended its rules to pass the bill today though it just came out of committee yesterday. It's on a fast track because to take effect, it must pass both houses by next Wednesday; you can see the AARP's full statement here.

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