More info about the state paying LESS toward pensions. Facts…
Higher Employee Contributions Reduce State Pension Costs
$170 million decrease due mostly to employees contributing more toward pensions
SACRAMENTO, CA – The State of California will contribute $170 million less for State employee retirement benefits next year due to State employees paying more toward their pensions and lower than expected state payroll and cost-of-living increases.
Mind you, there are some very real problems with the public pension funds. From the “contribution holidays” during the stock market bubble, to the pension boost in ~1999, to the rather optimistic return assumptions (IMHO), to the “pension spiking” (which they are addressing), etc…some things need to be changed, and they ARE being changed. It’s just important that we know how to differentiate between the hype and the facts.
Ever wonder why all the cuts to employee pay/benefits are not being broadcast in the MSM?
It’s because those who are pushing the “anti-union” agenda are NOT taxpayer advocates. They are private entities who are attempting to privatize public assets and revenue streams. The public unions are the main obstacle for them, and THAT is why you’re hearing so much about public employee unions in the news.
Be aware of what you’re supporting, and make sure you understand how YOU will be affected by the changes you’re advocating for. Think about whether or not you will see a reduction in your tax bill. Chances are pretty close to zero that you will benefit from the decimation of public unions. OTOH, if they cut government spending and wages/benefits for public employees, it’s very likely that you will see a reduction in your pay and benefits as well. Since the private sector competes with the public sector for workers, what happens to public sector workers will affect what happens to workers in the private sector.
Remember how they sold you on the “globalization is good” fairy tale (and the idiot sheeple bought it…hook, line, and sinker)? That’s what they’re are doing now with the “unions are bad” propaganda. Know WHO is pushing the anti-union message, and know WHY they are doing it.
