The California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) is one of the largest public pension funds in the world, managing the retirement and health benefits for millions of public employees, retirees, and their families. At the heart of this organization is the Board of Administration, a group responsible for making critical decisions regarding investment strategies and benefit administration. Participating in CalPERS elections is the most direct way for members to have a voice in how their retirement security is managed.
Understanding the CalPERS Board of Administration
The CalPERS Board of Administration consists of 13 members who oversee the management of the pension fund. This board holds the fiduciary responsibility to ensure that the system remains sustainable for current and future generations of public workers.
While some board members are appointed by the Governor or other state officials, several seats are filled through direct elections by the CalPERS membership. These elected positions represent specific groups, such as active members and retired members, ensuring that the diverse needs of the entire system are considered during policy discussions.
The Role of Elected Board Members
Elected board members serve as the representatives of the people who contribute to the system. They participate in committees that focus on investments, health benefits, pension contracts, and audits. Their decisions impact everything from the types of assets the fund invests in to the monthly premiums members pay for healthcare.
Who Is Eligible to Vote?
Eligibility for CalPERS elections depends on your current status within the retirement system. Generally, if you are a member of a group that has a representative seat up for election, you are eligible to cast a ballot. This typically includes two main categories of voters.
Active and Beneficiary Members
Active members are those currently working for a CalPERS-covered employer and making contributions to the retirement fund. If a seat is designated for active members, you must be employed and on the payroll during a specific window of time leading up to the election to receive a ballot.
Retired Members
Retirees also have dedicated seats on the board. To vote in a retiree election, you must be officially retired from a CalPERS-covered employer and receiving a monthly benefit. Beneficiaries who are receiving a continuing allowance may also be eligible to vote in certain circumstances.
How to Cast Your Vote in a CalPERS Election
CalPERS has modernized its election process to make it as accessible as possible for members. When an election is held, eligible voters are typically provided with three distinct ways to submit their choice. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use each method.
1. Voting Online
Online voting is the fastest and most environmentally friendly way to participate. When the election period begins, eligible members receive a ballot package in the mail that contains a unique PIN or access code.
- Visit the official CalPERS election website listed in your ballot package.
- Enter your unique credentials and follow the prompts to verify your identity.
- Review the candidate list and select your preferred representative.
- Submit your vote and save the confirmation number for your records.
2. Voting by Telephone
For those who prefer not to use a computer, a secure telephone voting system is usually available. This system uses an automated Interactive Voice Response (IVR) technology to guide you through the process.
- Call the toll-free number provided in your election materials.
- Enter your PIN or other required identification information using your phone’s keypad.
- Follow the audio prompts to listen to the candidate names and select your choice.
- Wait for the system to confirm that your vote has been recorded before hanging up.
3. Voting by Mail
If you prefer traditional methods, you can still vote using a paper ballot. This method is reliable but requires you to pay close attention to mailing deadlines to ensure your vote is counted.
- Complete the paper ballot included in your mailing.
- Place the ballot inside the provided “Official Ballot Envelope.”
- Sign the outside of the envelope in the designated area. Failure to sign the envelope often results in the ballot being disqualified.
- Mail the envelope back using the pre-paid postage provided.
Researching the Candidates
Before you cast your vote, it is important to understand the platforms and qualifications of the individuals running for a board seat. CalPERS provides several resources to help you make an informed decision during the election cycle.
Candidate Statements
Every candidate is permitted to submit a written statement outlining their experience, goals, and reasons for running. These statements are included in the official ballot package mailed to your home and are also posted on the official CalPERS website.
Candidate Forums and Videos
During many election cycles, CalPERS hosts candidate forums where individuals can answer questions about their vision for the pension fund. Videos of these forums are often made available online, allowing you to see how candidates handle complex issues related to finance and public service.
Important Dates and Deadlines
CalPERS elections follow a strict timeline. Missing a deadline can mean your voice is not heard in that specific cycle. While the exact dates change depending on the year, the general schedule usually follows this pattern:
- Notice of Election: Published several months in advance to inform members of upcoming vacancies.
- Ballot Mailing: Ballots are typically sent out in late summer or early autumn.
- Voting Period: Members usually have several weeks to research and submit their votes.
- Deadline: All ballots must be received (not just postmarked) or submitted electronically by a specific date, often in late September or October.
- Certification: The results are verified and officially announced shortly after the voting period ends.
Why Your Participation Matters
It can be easy to feel that a single vote doesn’t matter in a system with millions of members, but the CalPERS Board of Administration makes decisions that directly affect your financial future. The board decides the “discount rate,” which is the assumed rate of return on investments. This number determines how much employers and employees must contribute to the fund.
By voting, you help select leaders who align with your priorities, whether that is aggressive investment growth, social responsibility, or maintaining the stability of health insurance premiums. Taking ten minutes to cast your ballot ensures that the people managing your money are accountable to you.
Final Steps to Ensure a Successful Vote
To make sure you are ready for the next election, keep your contact information updated with CalPERS. If you have moved recently, log in to your member portal and verify that your mailing address is correct. This ensures that your ballot package reaches you without delay.
If you believe you are eligible to vote but do not receive a ballot package during an election year, contact the CalPERS election coordinator immediately. They can verify your status and issue a replacement ballot if necessary. Your participation is a vital part of the democratic process that keeps the retirement system strong for all California public servants.
If you found this guide helpful, you may also want to explore our other articles on managing retirement accounts, understanding public sector benefits, and navigating government services efficiently.