Message from Executive Director Stephen Edmonds:

Despite recent turmoil in the financial markets, you can rest assured that your retirement benefits are secure. COA ERS is a long-term investor with a time horizon that lasts over decades. This is not the first period of severe market volatility that we have experienced and it will not be the last. Our investment portfolio is well-diversified, professionally managed, and focused on long-term results. COA ERS is a defined benefit retirement system, which means your pension benefits are paid out to you, regardless of market events. In addition, retirement benefits paid to COA ERS retirees are protected by the Texas Constitution and cannot be reduced. Again, your retirement benefits are secure.