On December 12, the Missouri Congressional offices in Washington, D.C. met with representatives from the IRS and Social Security for a briefing regarding the Missouri’s 218 agreements with Social Security.  As a follow-up to this meeting, the Congressional delegation sent a letter to the IRS and SSA on December 17 which summarizes concerns raised during the meeting.  A copy of this letter is available on the MASA website at www.masaonline.org or by clicking on this link: http://www.masaonline.org/pages/uploaded_files/CongLetter1217.pdf.

It is encouraging to see that our federal elected officials expressed concern about providing adequate time for Missouri school districts and employees to conform to any new ruling.  As the letter states, “It is unfair to ask these employees to make such important life decisions without full knowledge and adequate time to assess the impact of potential changes on their monthly paychecks and future retirement income.” To that end, the group has requested that the SSA and IRS eliminate any set implementation deadline, including the proposed July 1 deadline, until there is a clear understanding of what changes should be made.

A working group has been formed that includes the IRS, SSA, Office of Administration and PSRS.  This group plans to report on a course of action after 60 days. The congressional delegation has asked for a report from the working group at the conclusion of their meetings.  As soon as I receive any information on the progress of this group, I will share it with you.

At this point, no immediate action is necessary.  We need to allow some time to work through the processes that are in place.  I believe all of our elected officials understand the enormity of this issue.  It is also unclear as to how leadership changes in Washington, D.C. and in Jefferson City, will impact this issue.

I appreciate the many calls, emails and letters sent to elected officials regarding this issue.  It has made a difference.

Roger Kurtz
Executive Director
Missouri Association of School Administrators
3550 Amazonas Drive
Jefferson City, MO  65109
Phone:  573-638-4825
Fax: 573-556-6270