Book Examines Diversity of Public Plan Universe

September 24, 2012 (PLANSPONSOR.com) – Researcher Alicia H. Munnell of the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College has written a book providing a broad perspective on the challenge of state and local pensions.

Munnell debunks the notion that all plans are in trouble. She finds that while a few plans are basket cases, many are functioning reasonably well.  

Munnell’s analysis concludes that the plans in serious trouble need a major overhaul. But, even the relatively healthy plans face three challenges ahead: an excessive concentration of plan assets in equities; the risk that steep benefit cuts for new hires will harm work force quality; and the constraints plans face in adjusting future benefits for current employees.   

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 She proposes solutions that preserve the main strengths of state and local pensions while promoting needed reforms.  

The book can be ordered for $29.95 here.

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