Sen. Pileggi: Mayor Nutter supports pension amendments
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Sen. Pileggi: Mayor Nutter supports pension amendments
Sen. Dominic Pileggi just told a group of reporters that Mayor Nutter supports the pension amendments made to the legislation to help balance the city budget. The original bill has been modified to include sweeping changes to the pension plan for municipal employees, including a freeze on current benefits and a reduction for future hires.
“Mayor Nutter has been in the building all day and has been working with us in crafting the amendment and moving the bill,” said Pileggi. “It is my understanding that he is supportive of the bill with the amendment we just adopted. We expect to have a letter from Mayor Nutter supporting these changes before a final vote.”
The bill was originally written to allow the city to delay contributions to the pension fund. That version passed the State House more than two weeks ago. The new amendments require significant reforms, including benefit cuts and eliminating the controversial DROP program for elected officials. Since the bill has been amended, if it passes the State Senate, it will need to be reconsidered by the State House.
Thus far, Mayor Nutter has been quiet about the amendments. We're still awaiting a formal statement from Mayor Nutter and a copy of the letter.
Pileggi also confirmed that the full State Senate would consider the proposal today and could suspend the rules to make it happen before the normal six hour delay. “Some members are considering [suspending the rules]. One way or another we will vote on the amended bill today.”
Here is a theory: Nutter doesn't mind the changes, but wanted to avoid taking a position. Why antagonize the unions if you don't have to ? He could blame the GOP, require the legislative changes in the new union contracts, but not be the bad guy. Pileggi decides that he won't be the fall guy (or let his caucus serve that role) and tells Nutter that if you want this passed, you need to put your support IN WRITING ....sound right?— willll- The state can mandate terms in a contract that has yet to be negotiated with the unions? Doubtful. With all the money that the state and city wastes, they go after the retirement benefits of union members? Pathetic.— MikeP
Comment removed.- Mikep, the city is going under. 70% of revenue goes to city employees. All need to take a hit. If Nutter does not agree, massive layoffs.
- Comment removed.
- fine and dandy for city. What about state budget? My pay got cut and now they owe center quite a bit of mooney. When will pa budget be passed?— feeclerk
- Thanks God someone is showing some fiscal sanity. It seems every Mayor gives the city employees what they want and hopes that bankruptcy won't come until someone else's watch.— bob19103
