FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — The Kentucky House of Representatives has passed a bill to overhaul one of the nation’s worst-funded pension systems despite loud protests from public school teachers.
The House voted 49-46 to approve a bill that re-emerged suddenly Thursday afternoon. Eleven Republicans joined 35 Democrats in opposing the measure.
The bill preserves most benefits for current public employees. Teachers would still get a raise of 1.5 percent each year. And it wouldn’t change how long current teachers must work before being eligible for full retirement benefits.
The Senate began debating the bill Thursday evening, and an expected decision to pass it would send it to Republican Gov. Matt Bevin’s desk.
Thousands of teachers have protested in recent weeks, threatening lawsuits and a strike if the bill passes.
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