This technique, known as "smoothing, " would reduce the impact of this year's big losses on plans' funded status. (The companies say Congress authorized smoothing in 2006, but that the rules issued by the Treasury undercut Congressional intent.) Also, for 2009 and 2010, the companies want Congress to waive a rule that requires the smoothed value to be within 10% of fair market value at the end of the measured period.
FORBES: Companies Press Congress For Pension Relief