[Timeout]

the state Constitution ensures they can never be required to give up even a nickel of their ill-gotten gains.

So, why not amend the constitution? I keep reading that these benefits are cast in stone, but no one ever mentions a constitutional amendment.

I'd love to see an initiative providing for a) take-backs of excessive benefits and b) giving taxpayers yes-or-no say on any future pay/benefit increases for gov't workers.

[okie01]

So, why not amend the constitution?

My guess is that the unions are protected by a contract with the state.

Legally, a contract probably can't be broken by amending the constitution. Declaring bankruptcy would do it. But there is no provision in bankruptcy law for a state to declare bankruptcy.