Analysis: The fight over funding public-sector pensions

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Vermont teachers and other public-sector employees are sparring with lawmakers over a plan to fix the state’s chronically underfunded pension plans.

The retirement fund for teachers and state employees has been underfunded for years and now it’s $3 billion short. House Democrats want workers to contribute more and get smaller payouts. Teachers held informational pickets this week arguing that “pensions are a promise.” But are they?

Dom Amato spoke with Joe Brennan, an employment law expert at the Vermont Law School about the divisive issue.

Related Stories:

Sanders weighs in on pension deficit: ‘Pensions are promises’

Vt. lawmakers face backlash over pension reform plans

Vt. teachers protest lawmakers’ proposed pension fix

Vt. lawmakers pass budget, grapple with pushback on pension reform

Vt. lawmakers pitch plan to shore up pension funds

Vt. treasurer presents pension-cutting plan to lawmakers

Benefits on the chopping block for Vt. teachers, state workers?

Copyright 2021 WCAX. All rights reserved.