Senate President Steven Sweeney just issued a statement urging his colleagues to advance public employee pension reform now, and deal with the issue of commissions, boards and authorities on a parallel track. Melding the two issues into existing legislation would require a second vote by the Senate on a package of reforms that were advanced 36-0 on Monday.
His full statement is available at this link, and includes,
Sweeney said the first goal for legislators should be to see the pension and benefits reform package signed into law as soon as possible so towns and school districts can account for the anticipated savings in next year's budgets.
"The most important thing must be to make these bills law so local governments can immediately begin to reap their benefits," said Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Cumberland/Salem). "School districts already are nearing the end of their budget process, and many towns are now beginning theirs. They need to know how they can budget now for achievable savings next year and beyond, especially where the cost of health care is concerned
The Office of Legislative Services estimates towns can save a combined $300 million next year in health care and pension costs.
CIANJ agrees with the Senate President. The package that passed the Senate on Monday should not be viewed by anyone as the final step in a reform process needed to protect New Jersey's overburdened taxpayers. Advancing existing bills in time for municipalities to take advantage of them this year only benefits the taxpayer as Trenton continues to work toward the comprehensive reform needed.
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