By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – State lawmakers are now back to the drawing board after the Illinois Supreme Court issued a ruling last week saying the state’s 2013 pension reform law is unconstitutional.

The ruling came as no surprise to State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington). He said the state needs to honor the promises it makes.

“The constitution is clear, and my views have been clear, that I believe once a benefit has been earned the State of Illinois is obligated to pay for that,” said Barickman. “I think that’s where much of the rub has come.”

As legislators begin working on a new solution, Barickman had a few thoughts on what might be done.

“I have suggested that we ought to look toward moving toward a 401K or defined contribution plan, such as other state have enacted,” said Barickman. “I think there are many constituent groups – whether it be retired teachers, or active teachers, or others – who will want to weigh in on this. I think that’s good. Anyone with a potential solution needs to come to the table.”

Barickman believed it’s going to take Republicans and Democrats in both the House and Senate working together, along with the governor, to find a better solution.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].