Constitutional Amendment Won’t Fix Pension System

Bill Knight — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 16:01:00 +0000

Most Illinois voters might be surprised by their ballot when they vote next month – but they’ll be shocked by the consequences if it passes. Proposed Constitutional Amendment 49 “adding Sec. 5.1 to Article XIII,” claims to address the state’s pension obligations.

First, given the shortfall of more than $80 billion in Illinois’ five pension plans, voters should ask how a new Sec. 5.1 would deal with the money the state owes those pensions. It does nothing.

pension shortfall

Constitutional Amendment Won’t Fix Pension System