Issue Position: Reduce our Debt for Future Generations

Issue Position

I support pension reform that puts the system back on solid footing and restores confidence and trust in this critical retirement system for state employees. I support honoring existing contracts, while making changes so this and future generations aren't saddled with debt and public employees can have peace of mind that their pensions and the state's finances are secure. It is in everyone's interest, state workers and state taxpayers alike, to proactively reform our pension system to avoid a destructive ballot measure on the issue. We must also take a hard look at California's unsustainable debt structure. Debt service is an increasing portion of California's annual operating budget, and is crowding out critical funding for education, public safety, and social safety net programs and services. This is not a liberal or conservative issue, but rather one of generational equity and stewardship.

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