The full Arizona Senate has approved a proposal overhauling the state's badly underfunded public safety worker pension plan.
Thursday's rapid-fire action came without debate and a series of three unanimous votes on the package of bills enacting the overhaul. Voters will be asked to approve the deal in May.
Voter approval is required because current retiree cost-of-living adjustments would be lowered.
The issue is pressing because public agencies have seen contribution rates to the Arizona Public Safety Personnel Retirement System soar to make up for the underfunding.
Peoria Republican Sen. Debbie Lesko negotiated the deal with public safety unions and employers.
The bills now go to the House for action. Lesko wants them on Gov. Doug Ducey's desk by Feb. 15 for placement on the May 17 special election ballot.
