Rauner's 'fair and reasonable' pension plan under scrutiny
SPRINGFIELD - An Illinois House panel is raising questions about constitutionality and collective bargaining rights outlined in a pension overhaul proposed by Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner.
Rauner's administration released a 400-plus page proposal last week calling it "fair and reasonable" for workers. A House committee plans to discuss it piecemeal in the coming weeks.
The plan would prohibit state-worker unions from collective bargaining on issues like wages and would freeze salaries for five years. Then it would offer workers the choice of getting raises, more vacation or overtime - but only if they agree to a less-generous pension plan.
Democratic leaders have blasted the measure. Labor unions called it a waste of time.
Committee members questioned the proposed changes Wednesday in light of the Illinois Supreme Court ruling a 2013 pension law unconstitutional.