With the clock ticking to the debut of participant-level fee disclosures, a major force in the American retirement scene has weighed in on the issue – and suggests that a fast move to a more electronic-focused world of disclosure statements is a bit of a rush.

The AARP, in a 28-page letter submitted electronically to DOL assistant secretary Phyllis Borzi, says that the massive seniors' rights organization supports the changes allowing e-mail and website access to retirement program participant disclosures, but emphasizes that old-fashioned paper records are still an important tool for many recipients.

"Participants and beneficiaries should have the right to opt out and receive only paper disclosures by request at any time," states David Certner, AARP's legislative counsel and director of legislative policy. "If a participant requests to receive the disclosure by paper, requests a paper copy at work or wants to print out a paper copy at the employer's site, the plan must provide the disclosure by mail or paper and the employer should not take any adverse reaction against the participant, including charging for printing."