The California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) board of administration has selected two firms to represent its interests before the executive branch and US Congress.
The joint venture between Lussier Group/Williams and Jensen was selected as its federal representative for retirement policy issues, and K&L Gates was selected as its federal representative for investment and financial market regulation issues.
A third firm, a joint venture of Avenue Solutions/Jennings Policy Strategies was selected in November to represent CalPERS's health care-related interests.
"Having specialised representatives in these areas will enable us to play a stronger role in retirement and investment national policy development that will continue to enhance the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of our programmes," said board president Rob Feckner.
"We look forward to working with both of these firms and are eager to have their skill and expertise put to work for us."
Earlier this year, the CalPERS board directed staff to begin the search for specialised representatives in the policy areas of health care, retirement, and investments.
The Lussier Group is an Alexandria, Virginia-based lobbying firm, while Williams and Jensen is a leading independent law firm in Washington DC, with a practice focused primarily on lobbying.
K&L Gates is a US-based international law firm with its public policy group headquartered in Washington DC.
"Engaging nationally on retirement security issues is a priority for CalPERS and an important part of our commitment to our members," said Anne Stausboll, CalPERS CEO.
"Having three separate and focused representatives broadens our reach and ability to influence outcomes."
