Madigan: Pension Boosts Should Require More Votes

A top state Democrat says pension boosts for public employees in Illinois should require more support in the General Assembly before becoming law.

House Speaker Michael Madigan is proposing a constitutional amendment to require a three-fifths vote of the House and Senate for any legislation that increases retirement benefits. A simple majority is required now.

The state owes its pension systems $80 billion and a committee appointed by Gov. Pat Quinn is set to deliver its recommendations for fixing the problem next week.

Spokesman Steve Brown says Madigan's idea would force public officials to think more "seriously'' about pension sweeteners which increase the pension debt.

The Legislature would have to approve the idea by May 6 to put the question before voters in the November election.