MainePERS is searching for its next chief financial officer and general counsel — roles that directly shape how disability-retirement laws are developed, interpreted and applied. Because MainePERS is taxpayer-funded and these decisions affect public employees’ livelihoods, the public has a clear interest in a transparent and genuinely competitive process.

Reform of the disability program began with legislative action in 2021 but only after at least a decade during which members were wrongfully denied disability benefits for which they qualified. That work remains unfinished. Members need strong, independent leadership, not a continuation of insular hiring patterns that risk reinforcing existing practices.

MainePERS has retained an out-of-state recruiting firm. While this can broaden reach, “national searches” in state government can appear expansive while resulting in expected or internal hires. Public scrutiny is appropriate, particularly given prior reporting on hiring practices involving individuals now in MainePERS leadership.

A credible search must include a wide distribution of postings across Maine’s financial and legal communities and clear selection criteria. For general counsel, that means independence, candor and the ability to rigorously examine and document administrative practices to ensure lawful, consistent decisions by the employees acting in the fiduciary capacity of determining eligibility for disability benefits.

A well-publicized search and transparent hiring process will strengthen trust and better serve the workers, retirees and taxpayers who rely on MainePERS.

Susan Hawes
Portland