Vermont’s two largest unions say they’re concerned they haven’t been asked to take a more active role in talks about proposed changes to pension plans.
State Treasurer Jeb Spaulding has been traveling around the state discussing the potential changes to the plans. He is chairman of a legislative commission to find ways to curtail rising retirement costs. Potential changes may include increasing the employees contribution rate and raising the retirement age.
The Vermont State Employees Association and the Vermont chapter of the National Education Association say they haven’t received a seat at the table to add to the discussions. Vermont-NEA was invited during a November 19th meeting, but union representatives say that was a little late.
Spaulding says the unions have been asked repeatedly for input on alternatives, but haven’t made any recommendations.