Read the latest updates from the School Employee Retirees of Ohio.
If you're having trouble viewing this email, you cansee it online.
Dear James,
Six more weeks of winter are on tap for us in Ohio if we are to believe Punxsutawney Phil. Of course, he is only correct 35% of the time. While the frost pervades, we continue to work diligently to improve SERO and the impact it has for our many members.
In service, Jim Janosik, CAE, CNP Executive Director
SERS
There was no regular board meeting for January 2026, however a special board meeting was called to discuss employment matters, presumably related to SERS Executive Director Richard Stensrud's announced retirement at the end of the fiscal year 2026.
The following are proposed administrative rule updates that we are tracking. Click on the number to access more information.
Lawmakers in Midst of Considering Education Bills on Religion, Academic Intervention
Halfway through the 136th General Assembly, a number of education proposals have passed one chamber of the General Assembly and are due for consideration in the next, Ohio Capital Journal reports. They include measures to mandate students watch a video on fetal development, to let schools teach positive effects of Judeo-Christian religion in U.S. history, and to expand intervention for students with lower state test scores. Read the full story HERE.
Schools Brace for Coming Changes over Property Taxes
With lawmakers making reforms to property taxes and a citizen-led petition effort to abolish them on the horizon, school districts are taking steps to brace for what the storm may bring, Cleveland.com reports, including educating voters and considering other funding sources. Read the full story HERE.
Medicare drug price negotiations may save some retirees more than 50% in 2026
Enrollees in Medicare Part D prescription drug plans may see their out-of-pocket costs for the negotiated drugs fall by an average of more than 50% in 2026, according to new research from AARP. Read the full story HERE.
Ethics Panel Rules on Civil Legal Defense Funds for Public Officials
The Ohio Ethics Commission voted this week to issue an opinion stating public officials can’t accept or solicit money for civil legal defense expenses from those who are trying to business with or are regulated by their agency, the Columbus Dispatch reports, noting the potential application to the case of two pension trustees. Read the full story HERE.
Legislation Tracking
We are currently tracking the following legislation that may be impactful to SERO and to you. When member action is necessitated, as determined by the SERO Executive Board, we will reach out with directives. You may always track any of this yourself and reach out to the SERO office and/or Board members to share your thoughts.
The Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Unclaimed Funds is safeguarding a staggering $4.8 BILLION — and some of it might belong to YOU! Last year alone, the average claim was over $1,400. That’s not pocket change — that’s vacation money, debt relief, or a big boost to your savings. Get startedHERE.
Talking to Adult Children About Your Money
Everyone can benefit from open family discussions about money. Here’s how AARP author Cameron Huddleston suggests having them.Read the full article HERE.
The Most Popular Annuities, Explained
They promise lifetime income, but they can be pricey and complicated. AARP columnist Karen Hube seeks to clarify how annuities work exactly, what are the benefits, and what are the downsides. Read the full article HERE.
AMBA Benefits
View the newest AMBA discounts available to you as a SERO member HERE.
Your heart works hard for you! Make sure you’re taking care of it. Routine checkups, preventive care, and healthy habits all start with access to the right healthcare coverage.
Protect your heart by staying proactive about your overall wellness.
Your member benefits continue to expand with SERO's offering of guided group travel experiences around the globe. Here are the current travel offerings:
The 2026 SERO Annual Meeting will be held at 10:00am on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at the CoHatch, 240 S. State St., Westerville, OH 43082. Registration details and agenda along with proposed bylaws changes will come out in the March Spotlight.
Join our friends at PERI and ORTA along with our benefits partner, AMBA, on Tuesday, February 17thfor a free webinar. This session will discuss Heart Health and Your Wallet. You’ll learn: • How major diagnoses can affect your finances • Simple ways to lower your risk and stay healthy • How to plan ahead before a crisis happens
Lifetime membership, available in either one-time payment or six easy monthly installments.
Under 55
$400
Age 55 to 59.99
$345
Age 60 to 64.99
$288
Age 65 to 69.99
$230
Age 70+
$173
Annual dues: $30 by check or $31.50 by credit/debit card or ACH
2-year dues: $61.50 by credit/debit card or ACH
3-year dues: $91.50 by credit/debit card or ACH
Monthly SERS dues deduct: $2.50
ALL of our memberships can now be paid with a debit/credit card or ACH directly from your bank account securely through the membership portal.
You may self-manage any of these new options by logging in to your membership profile HERE and choosing the desired membership. You may also call the office at 614-431-0387 if you need assistance with this. If you are on Dues Deduct, please call the office for guidance before switching to another method of payment.
IMPORTANT CONTACTS AT A GLANCE (click name to visit website)
The Voice of Working and Retired School Employees ohio-sero.com
4182 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 • 614.431.0387
https://linktr.ee/OhioSERO
*Any content provided herein by SERO should not be construed as making any form of financial, legal, or medical advice. All material should be vetted by the reader personally and with their own professional advisors.
.png)
.png)
.png)
