Via the redoubtable , recently released Census data on state and local public pension systems show that, compared to national averages, New York government employees directly contribute a much smaller share of their own retirement costs. And that's Read More
The short list of "critical, non-controversial" measures Governor Paterson has sent the deadlocked state Senate for possible action tonight includes a bill authorizing Nassau County to issue bonds to finance early retirement incentives for county emp Read More
In 2008, the state Metropolitan Transportation Authority employed 539 police officers who were paid an average of $96,553, including overtime and shift differentials. A salary database of all 78,393 MTA employees during 2008 -- searchable by na Read More
China is likely to set up a new stock market through which smaller companies can access domestic and possibly international capital, the Financial Times reports. Read More
As part of the February stimulus package, Washington offered new inducement for municipalities to issue taxable bonds. The program may have the effect of pushing up tax rates for the wealthy. Read More
That mindlessly right-wing rag, The New York Times, has that makes a simple and salient point about New York City pensions. If Albany won't cooperate on real pension reform, one good way for the mayor to keep pension costs down is to contro Read More
The . And out of left field, there's this: Ms. Feinstein has threatened to vote against Mr. Obama’s health care bill if it draws funds from high-cost areas like California to low-cost areas of the country. Ms. Feinstein noted that Ca Read More
In April, the state-run Metropolitan Transportation Authority won Albany's approval for a new, $1.5 billion annual tax on downstate payrolls. Now, the authority, with fresh finance-committee approval this morning, is moving to float a $600 millio Read More