‘Legal’ pension bill is what we need

The “new” approach to Illinois government appears familiar. It appears that all solutions for the pension crisis have been considered. The only idea is HB 1165. (I would hope that there is room for some honest dialogue.)

Our federal government appears to be at a standstill because the GOP refuses to listen to any opinion (for any legislation) from a Democrat. Dysfunctional government is the observable outcome, and it is hurting America and Americans. The Affordable Care Act is now law and is constitutionally legal. The GOP continues, in earnest, to edit the Constitution. Most reasonable people feel it is a waste of time and resources to argue for a rewrite of the Constitution to prove a point. Americans feel there are other issues to deal with that do not involve labor intensive and very expensive court challenges — challenges that have little to no chance for success.

Democracy has rules. One such rule is to follow the Constitution. No amendment allows for a “back door” to avoid the rules. The current “pension fix,” HB 1165, as proposed is believed to be illegal by most. Now would be the time to listen, work and propose a legal pension reform.

Springfield states the pension crisis is dire and every day of delay causes skyrocketing costs. Court challenges will last 18 months to four years. Would “common sense” indicate a different repair should be proposed? Should Springfield drop the bully approach? Should Springfield entertain “other” views? It would be a shame if Illinois Democrats have chosen to follow the dysfunctional lead of Washington for the “reformed” government of Illinois.

Alan P. Murdoch

Arlington Heights