Leaders solicit public comment on pension reform, create advisory group

By Kimberley Donoghue
PBN Web Editor
Twitter: @kydonoghue

PROVIDENCE – A 12-person advisory group will help vet and organize a solution to the state’s pension woes, Gov. Lincoln D. Chafee and General Treasurer Gina M. Raimondo announced Wednesday.

The initiative, called Secure Path RI, will solicit public input; those with ideas for reform can enter them through the Secure Path RI website or by mailing them to the University of Rhode Island’s College of Business Administration (see address below.)

The group will work with Chafee and Raimondo to develop a solution to submit to the General Assembly in October. The group hopes to redesign a system that: attracts quality employees, provides a level of security for its retirees, preserve funding for public services, and protects taxpayers.

“There is no greater issue facing Rhode Island than fixing the pension problem once and for all,” said Chafee. “We must work collaboratively and honestly, with all parties at the table, to reach a solution that ensures the future prosperity of our state for our children and grandchildren. I look forward to working with the General Treasurer, the General Assembly, and other stakeholders to achieve passage of comprehensive legislation in a special session of the legislature this fall.”

The advisory members include: