Two Legislators have been named to the Public Employees Retirement System board.
The two lawmakers – one Republican, one Democrat – were added as a part of a compromise the Legislature passed in the PERS budget bill.
The two are Sen. Dick Dever (R-Bismarck) and Rep. Pamela Anderson (D-Fargo).
"I don't think I will look at myself as having a separate Legislative role, but rather as being another member of the board," said Dever. "I do see myself as a liaison between the board and the Legislature, not as being adversarial to the board."
"I've had a lot of experience with various retirement plans and investments," said Anderson. "And I really enjoyed my career. This is going to be fun for me."
Anderson worked in investments and trust at US Bank and Wells Fargo. How does she see her role on the PERS board?
"Well, you don't micro-manage," said Anderson. "You make tough decisions, if you have to. You add what you can with your background and expertise."
Dever says some in the Legislature felt they were blindsided – when the PERS board switched health insurance carriers from Blue Cross-Blue Shield to Sanford Health.
"This way, the Legislature will be directly involved," said Dever.
Neither Dever nor Anderson supported the idea of adding legislators to the PERS board. But they say this was the compromise the Legislature finally approved -- and they will do their best as board members. the House had pushed for four legislators.
