Senate Comes Back to Reconsider Teacher Changes

Majority Republicans in the Michigan Legislature agree the weight of a $45 billion pension liability for public school employees will crush the system if left untended, but they differ on how to fix it.
 
The Senate is expected to consider a measure Wednesday that could be a compromise, pledging further action after the November election.The Senate plans to consider a version of a bill previously passed by the House that would end state-provided health coverage in retirement for new hires and require current employees to pay more toward their pensions. The Senate rejected similar legislation last month.
 
Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville says the financial effect of ending pensions for new hires is being studied. He says he expects lawmakers will review the findings and act before Thanksgiving.