The New Jersey State AFL-CIO, in partnership with its affiliates and allies, worked tirelessly this year to illuminate the Christie administration’s mismanagement of the pension system and the consequences that could befall our state if meaningful action is not taken.
CLICK HERE to read the full op-ed.
Working with our attorney Robert Klausner, his op-ed was published in NJ Spotlight and recognized as one of the “Best of 2016”. The piece detailed how taxpayers will be on the hook for $3 for every $1 skipped in pension payments. The piece also recommended placing a question on the ballot to mandate pension payments.
While we fell short of our goal to mandate pension payments through a constitutional amendment, our efforts this year were very constructive. Historic reductions in the fees paid to investment managers were achieved, and due to our persistent campaign a law requiring quarterly pension payments was signed into law by the Governor, despite his veto of the measure twice before.
There is much work ahead, and the next administration will play a critical role to achieve full funding of pensions. We are confident that the solidarity of all affiliates will ensure we are successful.