On the other hand if the Gov. wants them to help with their "pension" , why not change to a 401k? That way the employee contributes the majority, and the state does a small match. Say .50 to 1.00 per dollar invested on the first 6% or so.
I agree with you. My understanding is that they can not change items like this due to the union. It is covered in the collective bargaining. I heard the teacher's insurance is through the union. The state would like to give them the same insurace the state employees have. They say it would save millions. Once again, it's covered by collective bargaining.