When Wisconsin passed Act 10, a collective bargaining reform bill, in 2011, the nation watched closely. It wasn't just for the drama or the political intrigue, but because states all over the country face similar looming budget troubles in the years ahead. Without reform, pension obligations in states like Illinois or California threaten insolvency and even raise the specter of federal bailouts.
But with Act 10, Wisconsin showed that another way was possible. The collective bargaining reforms saved the state billions of dollars and staved off insolvency for many Wisconsin school districts. But rather than being welcomed with open arms, Act 10 became one of the most controversial pieces of state legislation in a generation.
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