Labor

Illinois takes steps to more easily replace striking workers

Illinois takes steps to more easily replace striking workers

Following a strike authorization vote by the union representing Illinois workers, the state launched a website that streamlines the application process for temporary workers. It allows the state to more easily carry on operations should state workers decide to walk out on the job.

By Mailee Smith

Illinois state workers authorize strike

Illinois state workers authorize strike

After months of obstructing progress on a contract for state workers, members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees have voted to authorize a strike – a walkout on state taxpayers – should leadership issue the call.

By Mailee Smith

Never enough: AFSCME votes to strike, declines Rauner’s contract offer that retained many lavish perks

Never enough: AFSCME votes to strike, declines Rauner’s contract offer that retained many lavish perks

The state’s largest government-worker union just voted to authorize a strike for state workers. The union perpetuates a myth that Gov. Bruce Rauner is waging war on the middle class – all while ignoring that his contract offer to state workers includes benefits unavailable to most Illinoisans working in the private sector.

By Mailee Smith

AFSCME members have voted: What happens next?

AFSCME members have voted: What happens next?

AFSCME members have spent the last few weeks voting on whether to authorize what could be the first-ever state worker strike in Illinois history. Even if members vote to authorize a strike, it doesn’t mean a strike is imminent – nor does it mean that the majority of state workers want to strike.

By Mailee Smith

Who are AFSCME workers?

Who are AFSCME workers?

The union representing state workers is currently holding a strike authorization vote. Understanding whom AFSCME represents better equips taxpayers in evaluating AFSCME’s demands and whether a strike is reasonable.

By Mailee Smith