Minor Improvements in Pensions Possible
Public employees will see some minor improvements in their retirement,
but a major change in benefits is unlikely this year, according to WEAC
Executive Director Don Krahn.
A bill changing the formula that sets pensions may not pass this session,
thanks to opposition by one legislator. A coalition of public employee
groups, including WEAC, had proposed improvements in the retirement formula
factor. Rep. Judy Klusman of Oshkosh, co-chair of the Legislature’s
Joint Retirement Committee, objected to some of the employee proposals,
in effect blocking the measure from action by the retirement committee.
“Chances for improvements in the formula are slim, but not completely
dead,” WEAC Executive Director Don Krahn said. “We will continue
to work with our partners in the hopes of reaching agreement.”
Two other bills stand a better chance of becoming reality.
- Senate Bill 31 reduces the minimum age employees are eligible
for joint survivor death benefits. The bill has passed both houses of
the Legislature and is awaiting the governor’s signature.
- Senate Bill 32 eliminates the five-year vesting requirement
for public employees who are in the state retirement system. The measure
has passed the Senate and is now in the Assembly.
Posted November 21, 1997