LA city officials announce pension reform plan

LA mayor Antonio Villaraigosa in Hollywood, California.

Mayor Villaraigosa and City Controller Wendy Greuel held a press conference this morning to announce a proposal to reform pensions for new police officers and firefighters. The plan, designed to regain control of pension costs, would force newly hired cops and firefighters to work longer, in order to qualify for enhanced retirement benefits. The proposal would save the city an estimated $175 million for every 1,000 new officers and firefighters hired. If adopted by the City council, the plan must also be approved by voters. Meanwhile, Los Angeles County Supervisors are set to vote tomorrow, on a series of pension reforms that could save the county $200 million. Will the plans win approval from lawmakers and voters? How will union members respond?

Mayor Villaraigosa and City Controller Wendy Greuel held a press conference this morning to announce a proposal to reform pensions for new police officers and firefighters. The plan, designed to regain control of pension costs, would force newly hired cops and firefighters to work longer, in order to qualify for enhanced retirement benefits. The proposal would save the city an estimated $175 million for every 1,000 new officers and firefighters hired. If adopted by the City council, the plan must also be approved by voters. Meanwhile, Los Angeles County Supervisors are set to vote tomorrow, on a series of pension reforms that could save the county $200 million. Will the plans win approval from lawmakers and voters? How will union members respond?

Guest:

Frank Stoltze, KPCC Reporter