I want to congratulate the Tribune for printing a letter that, in one short paragraph, says what most needs to be said about all Illinois pension crises.
Ms. Kovacik was dead on when she wrote a June 1 letter that the people of Illinois have benefited because legislative bodies at all levels have not contributed to pension funds as required by law.
Every dollar that was not contributed benefited the citizens of Illinois because they received the services these dollars bought them without tax increases that would otherwise have been necessary.
The state has made a start in the right direction, but without commiting the new income tax revenue appropriately. The City of Chicago needs a city graduated income tax dedicated to all of its unpaid bills with a five year sunset provision unless the people vote for its continuance in a general election.
What right does government have not to pay its debts?
— Stan Kravit, Chicago
