All constitutional options need to be on the table, state Sen. Robert Martwick said, including fund consolidation, pension obligation bonds, new taxes and more.
The legislation impacts Chicago fire pensions, but it's stirring debate over costly fixes needed statewide to avoid running afoul of Social Security rules.
Illinois trimmed revenue estimates for the current fiscal year and must absorb higher social services expenses next year leaving less budget room to maneuver.
Chicago outgoing mayor offered a parting shot against pending state legislation that stands to add to city pension costs, but sponsors say the fix was promised and is needed to avoid violating federal rules.