Federal Judge Tosses NJ Unions’ Pension Suit

A federal judge has thrown out a lawsuit brought by New Jersey teachers, police officers, firefighters and public workers challenging a law that requires them to pay more for their pensions and health benefits.

U.S. District Court Judge Anne Thompson dismissed the suit Monday on jurisdictional grounds.

Policemen’s Benevolent Association President Anthony Wieners says he’s disappointed the judge didn’t consider the merits of the unions’ claims. He says an appeal will be filed.

The unions claim the state has no right to unilaterally reduce pensions, which they say are part of a worker’s negotiated deferred compensation package.

The law enacted last year is a centerpiece of Gov. Chris Christie’s attempts to control government spending.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)