Final answer:
The increasing number of pensioners each year in Houston and Dallas is one factor aggravating the financial strain on city operations due to unfulfilled pension obligations. Urban challenges and changes in the role of unions contribute to the complexity of the issue. This is part of a broader global challenge in funding retirement benefits with a shrinking workforce. The correct answer is option a.
Step-by-step explanation:
Houston and Dallas have struggled to hire police officers, repair potholes, and perform other city operations due to financial strain from unfulfilled pension obligations. Among the potential factors exacerbating this situation, one could consider the increasing number of pensioners in these cities each year. This growth in retiree population relative to the workforce places more financial burden on the pension systems.
Further, urban issues contributing to the problem include traffic congestion, overcrowded schools, and a widening economic gap, which may impact tax revenues and the overall budget available for city services and pension funding. Moreover, the passage of worker protection laws, supported by unions, ironically made some workers feel less need for unions, affecting collective bargaining power over employment benefits, including pensions. The challenge of funding retirement and health benefits with a falling proportion of workers relative to retirees is a significant issue in the United States and elsewhere, meaning tough public policy decisions lie ahead.