Pension fixes lurch toward finish line

HELENA — Two fixes for the state's pension systems are nearing final approval despite lingering concern from Republicans over the cost.

Some Republicans joined Democrats on Saturday to advance the public employee's pension fix in a 55-45 vote. It is one more vote away from the governor's desk.

The House also voted 53-47 not to negotiate differences with the Senate on the teachers' retirement fix. It faces two more House votes.

The two bills ask both employees and their local and state public employers to pay more, while reducing benefits a little. They are projected to fix a projected $4 billion shortfall in the pensions for public employees and teachers.

But many Republicans argue the pensions cost taxpayers too much.

Democrats pointed out to Republicans that GOP-led committees crafted the plans.