Question:       Hello: My name is Jim Ekberg and I am a Locomotive Engineer working at Metro-North Railroad, a subsidiary of the MTA and the union representing me is the Association of Commuter Rail Employees (ACRE).  I have a few concerns that I would like for you to address.  I belong to the MTA Defined Benefit Retirement Program.  Is the MTA retirement program part of the New York State and Local Retirement System?  Does the New York State Legislature have any input or control or say concerning the MTA Pension Plan?  ACRE officers have stated "How do we know the new guys won't eventually put the old guys in their 62/30 pension?  There are laws in place that would greatly reduce the ability of anyone to take away your pension rights. More importantly, the goal of the newer members will be to reduce their retirement age, not increase yours. Furthermore, there is no chance that would ever happen because that would require an act of the New York State Legislature."  Is this statement by ACRE officers true.  Would the New York State Legislature have to approve of any changes to the MTA Pension Plan?  Does the State Legislature even know about the MTA Pensiion Plan?  The MTA Pension Plan was negotiated in 2004 and changed in 2007, did the New York State Legislature know of or approve of these changes to the MTA Pension Plan?  Any information you provide to clarify these questions and concerns would be greatly appreciated.  thank you for your time and efforts.  Sincerely,  Jim Ekberg Response:       This email message is in response to your questions concerning the Metro-North Railroad.       The New York State and Local Retirement System does not provide the retirement benefit program for individuals employed by MTA Metro-North Railroad nor do we have any information regarding the program.       We suggest you contact that system directly.       Thank you for contacting the Retirement System. Additional information, forms and booklets are available online at www.osc.state.ny.us , or by calling the toll-free NYSLRS General Information Line at 1-866-805-0990; callers in the Albany area should continue to use 474-7736. Our mailing address is: NYSLRS 110 State Street Albany, NY 12244-0001       RL/tp