New overtime rules in AFSCME contract could save $111 million if implemented
New overtime rules in AFSCME contract could save $111 million if implemented
With AFSCME and the state at impasse for a new contract, the governor can implement his last offer to the union. That offer includes overtime pay after employees work the market norm of 40 hours in a week – as opposed to the 37.5 hour workweeks AFSCME demanded. Adjustments to overtime pay will save the state $111 million over the term of the contract.
By Mailee Smith
Labor board declares impasse in contract negotiations between AFSCME and the state
Labor board declares impasse in contract negotiations between AFSCME and the state
Negotiations between Illinois and AFSCME – the state’s largest government-worker union – languished for months. While AFSCME demanded contract benefits that would cost the state $3 billion in additional salary and benefit increases, Gov. Bruce Rauner offered a contract that treats state workers fairly and avoids further burdening taxpayers. On Nov. 15, the Illinois Labor Relations Board issued a decision that prevents AFSCME from obstructing progress on an agreement.
By Mailee Smith
November election results mean Illinois’ neighbors likely to embrace worker freedom
November election results mean Illinois’ neighbors likely to embrace worker freedom
The outcome of 2016 races in nearby states may result in all states surrounding Illinois becoming Right-to-Work states – leaving Illinois a lone island in a sea of worker freedom. To remain competitive for workers and business, Illinois must consider similar reforms.
By Mailee Smith
As health care premiums soar in Illinois, AFSCME demands additional $3B in raises, health care
As health care premiums soar in Illinois, AFSCME demands additional $3B in raises, health care
As Illinois taxpayers struggle under Obamacare’s skyrocketing health insurance costs, AFSCME has called for tax hikes to fund an additional $3 billion in pay and benefits for state workers.
By illinoispolicy
For state workers, a special holiday come vote time
For state workers, a special holiday come vote time
Deciding to work on a holiday can yield big payouts for AFSCME members.
By Austin Berg
Labor reform needed: In Illinois, worker freedom lags behind neighboring states
Labor reform needed: In Illinois, worker freedom lags behind neighboring states
In a recent study, Illinois received a grade of D for the negative impact its collective bargaining laws have on taxpayers and government workers alike.
By Mailee Smith
Palatine school board approves $130 million building referendum for November ballot
Palatine school board approves $130 million building referendum for November ballot
Palatine-area Community Consolidated School District 15 is once again a hotbed of debate, as the school board that recently tied taxpayers to a 10-year union contract has now approved a $130 million building referendum to be placed on the November ballot. Before voting, residents need to take into consideration the school board’s history of closed-door decision-making, as well as the substantial economic impact the referendum could have on local taxpayers.
By Mailee Smith
AFSCME leaders rejected offer of bereavement leave, performance bonuses
AFSCME leaders rejected offer of bereavement leave, performance bonuses
AFSCME and Gov. Bruce Rauner are deadlocked in negotiations for a new contract for Illinois state workers. AFSCME claims to advocate for its members — but union leadership has turned its back on contract provisions that would benefit state employees and their families.
By Mailee Smith
Poll shows Illinoisans support both unions and Right to Work principles
Poll shows Illinoisans support both unions and Right to Work principles
A new Paul Simon Public Policy Institute poll reveals that nearly half of Illinoisans support Right-to-Work laws – but that more education on worker freedom is needed.
By Mailee Smith
Average Metropolitan Water Reclamation District employee makes nearly $100K per year
Average Metropolitan Water Reclamation District employee makes nearly $100K per year
Government employees responsible for managing water quality are earning six-figure salaries, despite a recent history of slacking on taxpayers’ time.
Over 370 Cook County correctional officers call off work during Cubs playoff run
Over 370 Cook County correctional officers call off work during Cubs playoff run
Cook County correctional officers’ unusually high use of sick and family medical leave coincides with Cubs playoff games.
By Brendan Bakala
AFSCME’s demands come at expense of neediest Illinoisans
AFSCME’s demands come at expense of neediest Illinoisans
By demanding a larger share of the state’s limited resources, AFSCME is depleting state funds and keeping them from social service providers and other Illinoisans who most need them.
By Mailee Smith
3 reasons why Chicagoans can’t afford the latest CTU contract
3 reasons why Chicagoans can’t afford the latest CTU contract
A career teacher can expect to collect $2 million in benefits during his or her retirement.
By John Klingner