What's next for AFSCME contract?
Updated: November 26, 2012
SPRINGFIELD -- One of Illinois' biggest labor unions just lost its contract with the state, now many are wondering what's going to happen next. Experts say nothing dramatic will be noticed right away.
Under state law, Governor Quinn has to continue negotiating with the union. His decision to terminate its contract really won't change things.
AFSCME says even so, the move is symbolic of something more. Its leaders are now claiming Quinn is anti-labor, and say he doesn't respect the collective bargaining process.
Of course his administration doesn't see it that way. They say they've been trying to negotiate for months, but the union wouldn't offer any meaningful concessions.
The contract was set to expire in June of last year, but it's been extended three times now in order to negotiate. They were sorting out pay raises.
Union reps say the contract will still need to be negotiated under state law. Everyone will be going back to the table in early December.
Under state law, Governor Quinn has to continue negotiating with the union. His decision to terminate its contract really won't change things.
AFSCME says even so, the move is symbolic of something more. Its leaders are now claiming Quinn is anti-labor, and say he doesn't respect the collective bargaining process.
Of course his administration doesn't see it that way. They say they've been trying to negotiate for months, but the union wouldn't offer any meaningful concessions.
The contract was set to expire in June of last year, but it's been extended three times now in order to negotiate. They were sorting out pay raises.
Union reps say the contract will still need to be negotiated under state law. Everyone will be going back to the table in early December.
