The Senator Reports

March 4th, 2010

New York Fixing Their Pension Woes—So Where’s California?
By Senator Mark Wyland (R-Carlsbad)

Many states are currently facing an enormous problem: inevitable and unaffordable pension obligations. A recent study shows that over the next 30 years, all of the states combined will face a $2.73 trillion pension bill!

New York realized that its pension system was in the red and problems would only worsen if no action was taken. That’s why last December, Governor David Paterson signed into law reforms like raising the minimum retirement age from 55 to 62 (California’s current possible retirement age starts at 55) and increasing the full vesting years of service from 5 years to 10 years.

While New York was not able to overhaul the entire system, they took a step in the right direction that California needs to mimic. But something must be done to address the state’s overall costly pension system for good. Californians can no longer afford to pay for a pension system that does not match the reality of the private sector.

Senator Mark Wyland represents the people of the 38th Senate District, which includes cities in north San Diego County and the south Orange County cities of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.

Senator Mark Wyland
1910 Palomar Point Way, Suite 105
Carlsbad, California 92008
760.931.2455 Office
email: senator.wyland@sen.ca.gov

Symbolic Actions Won’t Fix Budget Deficits and Jobs Crisis
By Assemblyman Martin Garrick

California’s projected $21 billion budget deficit prompted the Governor to invoke his powers under Proposition 58 to call a special session of the Legislature to act quickly toward solutions. The 45-day deadline for budget action passed last week, amid a flurry of action on a package introduced by legislative Democrats.

Unfortunately, the bills they introduced did not fully address the $6 billion deficit this budget year, and push off all tough decisions on cuts to address the additional $14 billion deficit looming in next year’s budget. While these bills may be a small start, the largely-symbolic actions just buy time before the next budget deadlines and real consequences for inaction start hitting this summer. Assembly Republicans have consistently called for urgent action and comprehensive solutions that force the state to live within its means and get people back to work. The Legislature cannot just sit back idly and hope for a miraculous economic recovery.

If California is to experience job growth, and an end to perpetual budget deficits, it won’t happen by accident. There is no appetite for tax increases to fill the multibillion-dollar budget hole that has grown over the years. Lawmakers must unite behind a plan that allows small businesses to thrive by encouraging the private sector to put people back to work.

Assemblyman Martin Garrick serves the communities of Carlsbad, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Rancho Santa Fe, San Marcos, Vista, and portions of San Diego, Escondido and Oceanside as the Assemblyman for the 74th District.