Gov. Bruce Rauner’s ideas about how to change government-employee pensions are getting extra scrutiny in Springfield.
Rauner wants employees to be moved into less generous plans for future pension benefits.
So far, it’s just something he’s just talked about. Democrats who’ve long focused on pension issues say that needs to change.
Sen. Daniel Biss, of Evanston, is calling for an actuarial analysis. He also says the idea that legislation would be passed and make it through the inevitable court challenge anytime soon is a “fantasy."
"The thought that that would all happen in time to achieve savings in FY16 just feels completely beyond the realm of even discussion," Biss says.
Illinois gets out of paying into Social Security for its employees — who in turn don’t get Social Security benefits. But that could have to change if the pension plan becomes too stingy.
The governor's office has not yet responded to a request for comment.
