A glance at state workers' benefits

In addition to pay, compensation for state workers includes a pension, health insurance and paid time off.

Pension: Since 1977, state workers have paid half the contributions to their pension plans, with the state paying the rest. Pension benefits are based on pay and years of service. There are also different plans for State Patrol officers and public-safety workers, such as corrections officers.

The average annual retirement benefit for state workers and teachers — including older plans that have been closed to new workers — is $18,676 per year. The average annual benefit for those retiring within the last five years is $21,419. Workers can retire with full benefits at age 65. Early retirement, with a reduced benefit, is available at age 55 for those who have at least 20 years of service.

Deferred compensation: State workers have access to a deferred-compensation plan, similar to a 401(k), that is voluntary and funded entirely with their own contributions. The state does not contribute.

Vacation: Vacation leave is based on a schedule that increases with years of service. During their first year, workers get 12 vacation days. Someone with 16 years of service gets 22 vacation days.

Health insurance: On average, the state pays 88 percent of health-care premiums and state employees pay 12 percent. But that can vary by worker.

For example, a state worker under the Uniform Medical Plan, which covers more than half of the state work force, pays 10 percent of the premium for family coverage ($123 monthly) and the state pays 90 percent ($1,088), according to legislative staff. In addition, there's a $250-per-person deductible under that plan, and workers pay 15 percent of the cost of a doctor's visit within their provider network.

— Andrew Garber