A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE ARIZONA STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND OTHER WESTERN STATES' RETIREMENT SYSTEMS.

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to determine whether there were significant differences in the Arizona State Retirement System when compared with Systems in Alaska, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington. To provide perspective, it was necessary to review the literature of public employees and teacher retirement systems as presented by authorities in the field. Major categories were selected for purposes of comparison. As the categories were analyzed and conclusions were reached, recommendations for action and for further research were made. The findings indicated that the Arizona State Retirement System had a higher over-all cost and provided fewer and less costly benefits than the majority of the other Retirement Systems studied. The recommendations included the standardization of information, formation of a coalition of members, and a separate study commission of Legislative and public members. Improvement of benefits and/or the decrease of dollar amounts necessary for the continued sound and equitable operation of the Arizona State Retirement System were also recommended.