During the 80s, get tough on crime politics mushroomed pensions and healthcare obligations because state/local governments lacked the cash flow for raises during higher inflation times.

Police and fire pensions usually drive this stuff because overtime assigned by seniority spikes salaries and pensions.

The “evil republican” angle is that “fiscally conservative” politicians usually balanced budgets by cutting pension contributions or buying support by reducing local contributions during tight budget times. Democratic legislators and governors did this too, but this type of fiscal behavior is a “conservative” trademark.

States like New York have mostly funded pensions, even with generous pension plans. The “secret” is easy - governments, especially local governments have to pay.