In one of his first official acts as a State Representative
in the Illinois General Assembly, State Representative Steve Andersson
(R-Geneva) has declined participation in the General Assembly Retirement System
(GARS) and the State’s insurance program.
“An unsustainable pension system is perhaps the most
significant issue affecting Illinois’ finances at this time, and I did not want
to contribute to the overburdened system by becoming an enrollee,” said
Andersson. “Lawmakers have some tough decisions to make regarding the pension
systems, and I believe self-sacrifice and leadership by example will go far in
setting the tone for these discussions.”
Illinois’ worst-in-the-nation pension system faces a $105
billion unfunded liability this year. A pension system overhaul approved by
legislators in 2013 has been challenged in the courts and the Illinois Supreme
Court will hear arguments in March. “As our pension costs consume more and more
of the budget, critical funding for education, public safety and social
services is siphoned away from those areas,” Andersson said. “Declining a
pension and state insurance is one small way that I can help make a
difference.”