Irvin Supports Public Pension Reform Measure
HARRISBURG – In an effort to stem the growth of the state’s pension debt, protect current enrollees’ pensions and offer strong pension plans for future workers, Rep. Rich Irvin (R-Huntingdon/Centre/Mifflin) voted in support of legislation to reform the two public employee pension systems.
“This legislation would slow the growth of pension liabilities, which currently stand at $62.7 billion between the two public pension systems for state employees and public school system workers,” said Irvin. “This one bill will not solve our pension debt, but it will stop the bleeding. This is a necessary step in resolving the pension crisis facing our state.”
Senate Bill 1, which received bipartisan support, would establish three new public pension plans from which state employees and teachers hired in 2019 or later could choose. Each would offer a defined contribution component, similar to a 401(k) commonly offered to workers in the private sector. The plans would provide future employees with retirement security and portability while also protecting taxpayers.
Current employees would have the opportunity to opt in to a new plan or continue in their current plan, and retirees would not see any changes to their plans.
“It was important to me to protect the promises made to current employees and retirees of the systems, and this plan does that,” said Irvin. “As for future employees, they will benefit from more progressive pension options that are in line with what the private sector is offering, which have proven quite successful.”
The governor is expected to sign the measure.
Representative Rich Irvin
81st Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Tricia Lehman
tlehman@pahousegop.com
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