Josh Goodman is a former staff writer for GOVERNING..
E-mail: mailbox@governing.comTwitter: @governing
Pension Puzzle
Amid all of the justifiable concern about underfunded public pension systems, most recently in Alaska, it's easy not to notice that some places appear to be doing just fine.
According to statistics compiled (free registration required) by the National Association of State Retirement Administrators and the National Council on Teacher Retirement, a number of plans actually have surpluses, instead of the billion-dollar unfunded liabilities you often hear about. The Florida Retirement System ($7.6 billion surplus) and the North Carolina Teachers and State Employees system ($3.6 billion surplus) are among the big winners.
Two questions for which I don't have an answer: Is it possible that these numbers are misleading and these systems aren't as healthy as they appear? And, if not, what makes them different from all the places that are struggling?
Twitter: @governing
Written and compiled by staff writers and editors, GOVERNING View is an on-the-ground, and sometimes behind-the-scenes, look at the topics we're covering in print and online. From notes on what's up in statehouses, county courthouses and city halls, to encounters with people, places and things, GOVERNING View is a window into the side of state and local government you don't always see.
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