When she runs against Gov. Bruce Rauner in the 2018 Illinois gubernatorial election, State Representative Jeanne Ives of Wheaton will be looking to make some changes to the state’s pension systems.
According to NPR Illinois, Ives first aims to amend the Illinois constitution to remove protections for government pensions. Her next move seeks to enroll each new state employee in a 401(k)-style hybrid plan. Lastly, Ives hopes to renegotiate pensions in what she is calling an “honest conversation” with current workers and pensioners about the Illinois pension system.
“Other states have solved their pension problem. We can, too,” Ives told NPR Illinois.
However, her plan has been met with harsh criticism from the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, who reject Ives’ ideas as “extreme and reckless.”
In addition, the website reports that a Rauner spokesman blamed Illinois’ pension issues on Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan.
The election will occur on March 20, 2018.
Tags: Governor Bruce Rauner, Illinois, Jeanne Ives, Pension