Across The Great Divide.

Tomorrow is the big day. The Moro et al legal case (contesting SB 822 and SB 861, passed during the two legislative sessions during 2013) will have its day in court. The cases - 4 in total - will be argued before the Oregon Supreme Court. The plaintiffs in these consolidated cases are arguing the legality of the cuts to the retiree COLA that were part of both bills, and the discontinuation of the income tax remedy for retirees living out of Oregon and, on the basis of residency are not required to file Oregon Income Tax on their PERS benefits. The out of state tax remedy takes two different forms and affects individuals differently. One of the two remedies appears to be a straightforward contractual element; the other a bit more complicated. In any case, the oral arguments are tomorrow in Salem, with a final decision expected in four to six months.

The PERS Coalition has asked that any affected or to be affected retirees or actives to have a visible presence in the courtroom tomorrow. Sorry for the late notice but I've been traveling for the past month.