Representative Keicher Rejects Legislative Pension and Health Care Benefits

State Representative Jeff Keicher, R-Sycamore, has formally rejected a legislative pension and declined participation in the State’s health insurance program in one of his first official acts as a member of the Illinois General Assembly.

“I entered public service as a way to give back to my community and make a positive difference in the future of our state, not to obtain a taxpayer-subsidized pension or health care benefits,” Keicher said. “Rejecting both is one way I can lead by example and demonstrate to the families of Boone, DeKalb and Kane Counties that I will be a trustworthy and faithful steward of taxpayer dollars.”

Paperwork has been processed by the General Assembly Retirement System (GARS) and the Comptroller’s office honoring Keicher’s decision to decline participation in the pension system and state health insurance program. Illinois’ underfunded pension system has been identified as the worst in the nation. Today GARS is only funded at 14.9 percent, the lowest of Illinois’ five state retirement systems. Representative Keicher’s decision to decline participation in the state’s pension system for legislators is final and irrevocable.

“When I go to Springfield, local families should know I’m there fighting to restore Illinois’ place as a destination economy where job creators choose to locate, expand and invest; where workers find good-paying and fulfilling careers; where our farmers thrive feeding America and the world; and where students achieve their dreams at our outstanding education institutions. These will be my priorities each and every day,” Keicher added. “Saving taxpayer dollars by rejecting a pension and health care benefits is a good start.”

For questions or more information, please contact Representative Keicher’s District Office at (815) 748-3494.