http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-982831.mp3
Springfield, IL – Public employee pensions in Illinois have been the focus of closed door meetings this summer.
Top level lawmakers are discussing changes that would impact those who work for state government, schools, universities and more. Similar efforts fizzled at the end of the legislative session this year, but with Illinois owing billions of dollars to the pension systems, it remains a hot button topic.
House Republican Leader Tom Cross says everything is on the table.
A plan Cross backed in the spring would have given workers options that included paying more to keep the same benefits, paying the same with benefits reduced, or moving to a 401 K style investment option.
"The one we filed, some would argue is fairly aggressive," Cross said. "If we find something with common ground and it's a little less aggressive, then the numbers change. That remains to be seen. I am hopeful we can continue to talk and come up with a decent plan, but time will tell on that."
Cross gave no timetable for reaching a consensus.
Lawmakers return to the Illinois statehouse for the fall session in October.
Thanks to Illinois Public Radio