The defined- contribution plan as modeled by Michigan in 1997 is being followed by other states as they see that current retirement programs are unsustainable.  This plan was begun under conservatives in that state, and this is why Illinois is appealing not to Republicans but to Democrats to keep their current plan. Perhaps they will soon learn that this is not just a "political" issue, but something that will determine the very economic survival of the state.  I look for many otherstates to follow this plan.