[JimmyInGreatLakes]

Just wondering about any state employees out there contemplating leaving under the recent early-out bill? What are you considering in the decision process, etc? I'm on the fence about it myself. I'm under 50 and it seems like a crazy idea at my age but, then again, I wouldn't mind the flexibility to do something else. I've researched enough information to be dangerous on the rules so if anyone has any questions, let me know as well (publicly or direct message). Thanks.

[michiganbob]

I know several state employees who are eligible and here's what they are telling me what their thinking currently is:

On leaving:

- Concern about staff cuts when the new governor comes in
- Concern that others taking the early out will leave them with more work to do.
- The 3% increase in retirement health care costs will reduce their pay until they retire.
- They might never get another shot at a multiplier as high as the one being offered and so will receive less each month in their pensions.

On staying:

- Some have not done a good job of planning for retirement and don't feel ready both financially and emotionally
- Most don't think they will be able to find another job in the State if they retire and would have to move to find work.
- Many staff who qualify are in management, meaning there might finally be some opportunities to move up if you stay.

[JimmyInGreatLakes]

Thank you for those thoughts. Most are the same as mine.

New administration/huge budget hole = changes either in reallignments or staffing.

Pay "cuts" or higher contribution rates will make leaving easier.

There probably won't be another bonus on the multiplier for the foreseeable future because the pension fund can't handle many more.

Just too much uncertainty for me about the new administration. Wish this open window trickled into 2011.