San Jose, City Unions in Court Over Pension Reform

During a court hearing on Monday, San Jose city employee unions -- led by the city's police union -- argued that the city's overhaul of pension benefits for current public employees -- which was promoted by Mayor Chuck Reed (D) and approved by nearly 70% of voters in 2012 -- violates the rights of its members and is at odds with state law. The lawsuit has statewide implications, as other local governments consider breaking benefit promises to current and past employees.

• "California Court Battle With Unions Sets Stage for Pension Reform Showdown" (Christie, Reuters, 7/22).