Mississippi Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS)

Overview

Mississippi Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) is a state agency responsible for managing retirement benefits for public employees in Mississippi. Established in 1952, PERS serves individuals working in state government, public schools, universities, community colleges, municipalities, counties, the Legislature, highway patrol, and other public entities. The system aims to provide secure retirement benefits, thereby supporting the recruitment and retention of a strong public workforce in the state. PERS offers a range of retirement plans, including defined benefit plans such as the Public Employees' Retirement System of Mississippi (PERS), Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol Retirement System (MHSPRS), and Supplemental Legislative Retirement Plan (SLRP). Additionally, it administers defined contribution plans like the Optional Retirement Plan (ORP) for eligible institutions of higher learning and the Mississippi Deferred Compensation (MDC) plan for state employees and participating political subdivisions. These plans are designed to cater to the diverse needs of Mississippi's public employees. The system's investment strategy focuses on a diversified portfolio that includes fixed income securities, equities, and international holdings. This approach aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the retirement benefits provided to members. PERS is governed by a Board of Trustees, which oversees the administration and investment decisions to maintain the financial health of the system and protect the interests of its members and retirees.

Investment Focus

• Must be a public employee in Mississippi