Frankfort, KY — Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin’s pension-relief proposal cleared the Republican-run state House by a slim margin Monday, surviving a crucial showdown as lawmakers continued a special legislative session convened by the GOP governor. The 52-46 vote capped a three-hour debate, sending the legislation to the Republican-dominated Senate, where a potential final vote is expected Wednesday. It’s the latest attempt by Bevin and lawmakers to shore up one of the country’s worst-funded public pension systems. The bill — reflecting Bevin’s plan — aims to deliver relief for regional universities and quasi-governmental entities strapped by surging pension costs. Among those affected are social safety-net agencies including public health departments, community mental health centers and domestic violence shelters. House Democrats warned the bill is likely to draw a court challenge, claiming it runs afoul of “inviolable contract” language guaranteeing workers the pension benefits they were promised when hired. Bevin called lawmakers back for the special session that began last Friday. The special legislative session costs taxpayers about $66,000 per day.
Pension Special Session Costly
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