Porter celebrates the revival of the 13th check

Today, March 8, the Indiana House of Representatives voted to approve the conference committee report on House Bill 1004. Even though the Senate removed the 13th check, the House conference committee added the provision back into the bill. Certain retirees on the Teachers’ Retirement Fund (TRF) and Public Employees Retirement Fund (PERF) will receive a 13th check in 2024.

State Rep. Gregory W. Porter, who was a conferee on the committee, released the following statement: 

“This is a triumph for our seniors. This is a triumph for the House Democratic Caucus Economic Freedom Agenda, and this is a personal triumph. I’m grateful we compromised with the Senate since providing our retirees with a 13th check was one of my priorities this session. Retirement is supposed to be relaxing. It’s a time to be with your loved ones and care for your grandchildren after years of hard work. Retirement shouldn’t be a time when you’re worried about your finances. It’s the state’s duty to support our public retirees after they’ve invested their time and labor in the well-being of Indiana. 

“That’s the meaning behind the 13th check. It’s a thank you for your service to the public. Today, this legislative body decided that gratitude was important. Our retirees will receive a 13th check. We’re still going to make some tweaks to the plan and look for a long-term solution. Some retirees benefit more from a COLA whereas others prefer the 13th check. We’re still going to figure out a long-term hybrid plan. But our seniors are going to be supported while we find the best solution. We’re going to provide a 13th check in 2024. I’m pleased that the legislature acted in the best interest of our seniors today.   

“Finally, I’d like to thank Rep. Bob Cherry (D-Greenfield) for his work on the 13th check. I’ve enjoyed working with him on this bill and on the House Ways and Means Committee. I wish him the best as he begins his own retirement after this session.”