Mercier hindered from serving in state government

Source: Casey Mercier/Facebook

Press Release – From Casey Mercier

Hattiesburg, MS – CASEY MERCIER, candidate for State Representative in Mississippi’s 102nd House District, released a copy of a letter he received from the Public Employees’ Retirement System stating that members of the state legislature are not allowed to continue receiving retirement benefits even if they disclaim all compensation from the legislative position.

“The State of Mississippi has laws and policies designed to deter retired educators like myself, from serving in the state legislature,” said Mercier. “There are 40,000 retired educators in the state of Mississippi. Currently there is not a single one serving in the legislature. If a state retiree chooses to run for the legislature they are forced to give up their retirement benefits when they are elected. The laws and policies of Mississippi prevent retirees in the fields of education, state law enforcement, public safety, human services, and more, from serving in the Mississippi legislature.”

“I will fight to change this law and any others that are designed to keep the ‘same old, same old, special interest groups’ holding the power in our state legislature. I am willing to give up my retirement benefits from the state in order to represent my district’s citizens in Jackson. These outdated laws have failed to provide for a superior public education system, provide proper care for our elderly, and stop wasteful spending in the state.”

“Help me bring the voice of the people back to Jackson. On September 12, 2017, vote for Casey Mercier for District 102 Representative.”

The special election for House District 102 will be held on Tuesday, September 12, 2017.