Unlike most of its neighbors, Illinois places no limits on the types of provisions that can be negotiated into government worker contracts.

If Illinois is going to compete with its neighbors – and keep people from moving out of the state – it must reduce the enormous property tax burden its families are forced to bear. Following the lead of surrounding states by enacting collective bargaining reforms is one good place to start.

An Illinois appellate court ruled Nov. 6 the state must pay “step” raises to the approximately 35,000 state workers represented by AFSCME – a cost that burdens already overtaxed Illinoisans.

While government worker unions have had a stranglehold on the people of Illinois for far too long, the state isn’t without hope. Illinois can follow the lead of other Midwestern states and enact labor reforms.

A solution to the union’s “free rider” claim is on the table. Why doesn’t it enjoy union support?

Government-worker unions can negotiate for months or even years without reaching a new contract, and can use negotiations to push for even cushier perks from pricier health insurance to paid time off for birthdays.

Illinois is the only state in the region that allows government workers to go on strike, effectively depriving residents of services they need and driving up the highest property tax bills in the nation.