Florida Unions Challenge 3 Percent Pension Contributions

TALLAHASSEE – Eleven union members filed a constitutional challenge Monday to a new law that will require government workers to contribute 3 percent of their paychecks to the state pension system. The lawsuit, spearheaded by the Florida Education Association, argues that the measure (SB 2100) violates the contractual rights of current workers and also violates collective-bargaining rights.

The 3 percent contributions will take effect July 1. FEA attorney Ron Meyer said the challenge asks that the money be set aside and returned with interest to workers if the lawsuit is successful. ”We believe that a promise is a promise, and the state of Florida should abide by the promises it makes,’’ FEA President Andy Ford said during a conference call with reporters.

Requiring employee contributions to the pension system has been a top priority for Gov. Rick Scott and other Republican leaders. Among other things, they argue that government-employee benefits should more closely resemble private-sector benefits. Also Monday, the union that represents many police and corrections officers filed to intervene on the side of the teachers in the lawsuit.