From the Tom Morrison for 54th District State Rep campaign…
Morrison Calls for Pension Reform Among Illinois Lawmakers
Palatine, IL – State Representative candidate Tom Morrison campaigned today on pension reform, starting with the state lawmakers themselves. A new mail piece and internet video outlines Morrison’s call for “leadership by example,” starting with the Illinois General Assembly.
“The General Assembly created this problem, and should lead by example. That’s why I oppose lavish pension perks for state legislators.” Morrison continued, “Part-time jobs with pensions that begin at eight years and top out at twenty are extravagant. Springfield politicians need to live like the rest of us.”
Morrison supports fully funding current pension benefits earned, but recommends transitioning to a two-tiered defined contribution system for current and future employees. A number of states, including Michigan and Utah, have already converted to hybrid pension plans – and others are considering it.
Morrison concluded, ”The General Assembly’s failure to put our state pensions on a sustainable financial track is embarrassing. You deserve better. We need new leadership.”
The 54th District, with a population of more than 105,000 people, includes portions of Palatine, Barrington, Inverness, Hoffman Estates and Rolling Meadows.