As reported by The State Worker it looks like California for Pension Reform (not so creative name for a pension reform PAC) will give up it’s attempt to reform public employee pensions because of lack of funding. And let the finger pointing begin.

“It’s a sad day for pension reform in California” said Aaron McLear, spokesman for Sacramento-based California Pension Reform.

The language that came back from Attorney General Kamala Harris‘ office was worded to make it unpopular with voters, the pension reform group complained. The language was “false and misleading,” it said in a press statement today.

It is a tough day for anyone who is forced to admit they are giving up on a campaign. These folks should be applauded for attempting to take on tough issues facing the state. The monumental figures attached to public pension liabilities in California should really force all Californians to look at what is at risk.

Unfortunately they got caught up in ballot measure politics.

It also goes to show how much money is needed to qualify a ballot initiative ($2 million?!?) and the need for ballot initiative reform.

Updated with statement from Californians for Retirement Security

“We have always believed that changes in California’s pension system are best addressed at the bargaining table and through the legislative process, not the ballot box. These sloppily written initiatives were dead on arrival because they were costly and undermined retirement security for millions of middle class Californians. While we are pleased these ballot measures will not go forward, we will continue to work with the Governor to work on real solutions to stop abuses and provide savings in our state’s pension systems.”