Senate advances pension plan fixes

HELENA — Proposed fixes for the state's public employee and teacher pensions systems are getting closer to approval in the Legislature.

The Senate endorsed the two measures in 30-20 and 30-19 votes on Tuesday as some Republicans joined minority Democrats in advancing the plans.

House Bills 377 and 454 reduce benefits a little while increasing contributions.

The changes are meant to fix the pension systems facing a projected $4 billion shortfall over the next 30 years. However, lawmakers have expressed concern that portions of the bills could end up in court.

The Senate's Republican leadership failed in its effort to scuttle the bills. They argue the cost of maintaining the pensions will continue to grow, and had sought to end the pension system for new employees.

Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy, D-Box Elder, and Sen. Greg Jergeson, D-Chinook, voted for the legislation.