Podcast Explores Municipal Impact of PA 202 OPEB/Pension Reforms
What is OPEB? Why is it such a big deal? Why is it important to local government?
OPEB stands for Other Post-Employment Benefits, which are separate from pension plans. As a result of those benefits, we have had a significant increase in cost for OPEB. Local governments are responsible for those costs. Funding spent on OPEB is funding that is being diverted away from local services like police and fire departments, or road funding. Between the introduction of global healthcare systems, combined with retirees living longer, OPEB is having a significant impact on local government.
Listen as the Michigan Municipal League’s Anthony Minghine sits down with Brandon Fournier, a partner at Shifman Law, to discuss OPEB, the burdens local governments are carrying, and ideas for reform.
This is the sixth SaveMICity podcast to post since the Michigan Municipal League launched the We Love Where You Live podcast series in January. Here is a break down of all the podcasts:
- Economics of Place: ThePodcast – Host Dan Gilmartin., CEO and Executive Director. This podcast’s segments feature people on the cutting edge of making cities better. It focuses on big-picture community ideas.
- SaveMICity: The Podcast– Host Tony Minghine, COO and Deputy Executive Director. Focusing on the League’s municipal finance reform initiative, Tony will talk to people with varying perspectives on the issue.
- Review Déjà vu– Host Lisa Donovan, Communications Specialist and Editor. A look at past, present and future stories, topics and people covered in the League’s Review Magazine.
- Michigan Politics, Huh?– Host Matt Bach, Director of Communications. This will focus on politics and the League’s legislative work in Lansing, but from a layman’s perspective. What’s happening in Lansing that might impact your community? We find out in this podcast
- Limelight– Host Emily Kieliszewski, Member Engagement Specialist. It highlights the incredible work being done at the local government level,. the stories behind the people that do it, and the topics that matter to them.