TRS Board gets project updates during February meeting

The TRS Board of Trustees held its annual training and education session Feb. 12-13, focusing on major updates that directly impact both active and retired educators.

Regional office updates

Due to expansion at the Region 18 Education Service Center in Midland, TRS will relocate its first regional office next year. In addition, the 2025 Legislature approved a second TRS regional office in El Paso. The Board has authorized staff to begin negotiating lease agreements for both locations, expanding TRS's regional presence and access for members.

TEAM modernization launch

TRS is entering the final phase of its long-term TEAM (Technology, Engineering, Architecture, and Modernization) initiative. This effort modernizes business operations and technology systems, including the new TRUST pension administration system.

Designed to streamline processes, reduce manual work, and improve member services, the updated system will go live Feb. 16. Because this system manages pension contributions and benefit adjustments, members who notice any issues with payments or automation are encouraged to contact TRS directly at 1-800-223-8778.

Health plan contracts extended

Both TRS-ActiveCare (for active employees) and TRS-Care (for retirees) will continue under Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas through 2030. UnitedHealthcare will be a secondary option for TRS-ActiveCare, and Humana will serve as a secondary option for TRS-Care. This provides continuity and stability in state-sponsored health coverage.

Pension study underway

The Texas Legislature has directed TRS to conduct its third pension benefit design study since 2012. The study will review the current defined benefit plan, explore alternative models (including hybrid, cash balance and defined contribution options), analyze workforce and retention trends, examine Social Security participation, and assess overall pension health. This signals that broader retirement structure questions - not just contribution rates - are part of ongoing policy discussions.

The study is due in September. Additional details will be shared at the April quarterly meeting, and a draft is expected in July. We will continue to keep you informed as this important conversation develops.