RJ and Makay

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Governor Jerry Brown’s proposal to raise the age, from 55 to 67, for state public employees’ retirement with full benefits, if passed, would put California in the company of only three other states that have raised the retirement threshold to shave state budget costs.  The change, which still requires legislative or voter approval, reflects the effects of Americans increased longevity and the resulting pressure it adds to government pension plans.

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Financial sector employment has risen above 2001 levels in 21 states, indicating that the banking industry is regaining some of its past luster, according to an On Numbers analysis of new Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

California led the nation in 2010 dog bite claims, at 369, representing a total payout of $11.3 million, according to a State Farm Insurance Co. report that lists the top ten states for dog bite claims.  Illinois ranked second with 317 claims for a total cost of $9.7 million.  Florida, though seventh on the list, registered the highest average cost per claim at $38,356. California and Illinois’ average cost per claim was around $30,000.

State Farm, for the most part, does not refuse insurance based on dog breeds, though does require homeowners to answer questions about their dog’s history on the insurance application.  The lone exception is Ohio, which has determined that Bit Bulls meet the definition of “vicious dog.”  State Farm excludes them from Ohio resident’s homeowners insurance.  Despite the exclusion, Ohio still came in third at 215 claims for a total payout of $5.7 million.