Even with the cuts, the Mayor said the city and state would still provide among the most generous benefits for the poor in the nation.

But the costs rose as he promised more generous benefits.

But even the most generous benefits now under consideration will probably fall far short of what the elderly expect.

And the pay, $33.45 an hour plus generous benefits, is one of the best union wages in the country.

All of us would prefer generous benefits and low taxes.

In exchange, the retirees got very generous benefits - at least until the financial crisis hit.

The average driver in Local 282 earns $29 an hour and generous benefits.

Officials say most people would pay little, if any, more than they do now in return for generous benefits and lifelong peace of mind.

And that may be jarring for many Americans who have long received generous benefits at work.

Then they must either find a job or apply for a new benefit - much less generous - based on need.