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AFSCME sets strike authorization vote

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* From an e-mail to state union members…

From: “Roberta Lynch, AFSCME Council 31″
Date: January 13, 2017 at 10:28:03 AM CST
To:
Subject: Rauner rejects compromise — Time to vote

AFSCME Council 31

Dear xxxx,

When I wrote to you earlier this week, it was with the slimmest of hopes that Governor Rauner’s recent pronouncements about the importance of “compromise” to end the state budget crisis might actually have been made with a modicum of sincerity.

I thought that if he had finally come to see how his stubborn refusal to work toward a solution to the state’s fiscal woes was harming citizens all across Illinois, then perhaps he might also finally have realized how counterproductive it has been to take the same ‘my way or the highway’ approach with his own employees—the thousands of dedicated public servants who protect children from abuse, monitor air and water quality, respond to natural disasters, care for aged veterans, and so much more.

It was based on that hope that your AFSCME Bargaining Committee took the unprecedented step of publicly putting forward a new “Settlement Framework” that significantly modified the union’s previous positions on core economic issues. After an entire year in which the governor refused to come to the bargaining table and work to reach a fair contract settlement, the Committee wanted to concretely demonstrate that AFSCME members are prepared to do all we can to avert the disruption that would be caused by a statewide strike.

You can click here to read AFSCME’s letter to the governor which outlines the new Settlement Framework.

Unfortunately, we quickly learned just how insincere the governor’s professed belief in “compromise” really is. Within hours of receiving the union’s letter regarding the new framework, the governor’s office put out a press statement completely dismissing the new terms as “superficial” and—as is their usual pattern—wildly exaggerating the potential cost to the state.

This kind of blatant misrepresentation of the facts is a clear indication that the governor has not a rational or ethical leg to stand on in the war he is waging on his own employees.

Anyone with eyes to see can grasp that a settlement framework based on employees getting no base wage increase for four years—and paying more for their health insurance—represents real sacrifice. The decision to put such a framework forward was not one that the Bargaining Committee made lightly because Committee members are keenly aware that it could entail real financial difficulties for some employees—especially those who are lower-paid or more recently hired.

But, rather than recognizing that sacrifice and taking up the opportunity to chart a new course, the governor is refusing to make any compromise whatsoever. He remains determined to eradicate union rights, to make employees pay 100% more for their health insurance, to freeze wage increases and step movement for four years, and to have unrestricted ability to privatize state services.

That’s why it is clear that the time has now come to move forward with a Strike Authorization Vote. This vote will let every AFSCME member determine whether or not to resist Rauner’s assaults or to allow him to impose his own harsh terms on employees. The voting will take place in each local union on dates set between January 30 – February 19. Specific information regarding voting locations and procedures in your local will be coming soon.

You will be voting on whether to give your AFSCME Bargaining Committee the authority to call a strike. If a majority vote ’yes’, that does not necessarily mean there will be a strike—as the Committee will continue to do everything possible to reach a fair settlement. But it does mean that if all such efforts fail, you will be prepared to go out on strike when the Committee issues the call.

This is a choice that no responsible person would seek or savor. Yet we have a governor of our state who has continuously pushed to reach this juncture—to undermine employees’ economic security and job rights or to shut down the state and deny citizens the services they need.

Over the coming months, we will be called on to take our commitment to public service ever deeper, to build on the support shown by our communities, and to send a powerful message that no government can truly serve its citizens by trampling on the employees who provide those services.

In Unity,

Roberta Lynch
Executive Director

Emphasis added.

How do you think the vote will go?

posted by Rich Miller
Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 10:49 am

Comments

We don’t have a strike fund but we reached out to UAW to see if we can use theirs. We still haven’t heard back.

Comment by Almost the Weekend Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 10:53 am
85% in favor

Comment by Oneman Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:00 am
I’m not one to support these extreme actions because I know the financial pain that these state employees will feel. I believe that while it will cause pain, something big needs to happen to ultimately end the political games and to drive the compromise needed for a long term solution. We have been in soft shutdown since Governor rauner was elected. Only a full shut down will place the spotlight squarely on the decision makers and force voters to really start assigning brutal blame.

Comment by Anon Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:00 am
Don’t think there is a need to strike…. a number of organizations caused a slowdown, by following policy to each letter of each administrative rule.

Comment by Anonymous Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:02 am
The war with Organized Labor that Rauner has wanted since before he was elected is now just weeks away.
Not that he cares, but people will suffer. Just not the people Rauner thinks are important.

Comment by IRLJ Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:03 am
Elections have Consequences.

The individuals that thought more about Quinn then the Union should be happy now. Those who booed Quinn should be ecstatic right now. Those who took their time to move off the Rutherford train to Dillard should be giddy.

Rauner is going to get his Labor “win”, the question is going to be how it’s seem publicly that could further damage AFSCME and Labor.

Sorry.

Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:05 am
Oh Honey Bear. This is not good for anybody.

Comment by Huh? Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:05 am
Give me a break. DCFS employees make $79k/year on average. Non of these state workers are “struggling” - especially compared to the average IL household. These are not cuts worthy of a strike. I hope AFSCME won’t be foolish enough to strike. The public has seen a decline in average household income over the last decade… you really think they’ll be sympathetic to preserving your lavish benefits and drastic increases in pay?

Comment by JustRight Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:06 am
Uh oh, Roberta’s really mad now! But maybe just one more stern open letter to the governor calling him more names before this next feckless step? Or maybe a march on the Capitol is a better tactic?

I bet Bruce has some suggestions here that he’d be willing to share because he’s more than cool with all of the above.

Comment by Deft Wing Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:09 am
From what I’ve heard, I’ll predict 80% -85% in favor of a strike.

Comment by RNUG Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:10 am
==Elections have Consequences==

Unfortunately, the consequences extended to the 6 out 10 union households who didn’t vote for Rauner. Those same consequences also include those who were actively involved in trying to talk sense into their fellow union members in a primaries and elections that led us to this moment.

Comment by AC Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:11 am
The Security In Our Prisons Will Vote No.. It Is Against The Law For Them To Strike. Big Picture. All The Office People Through Out The State Will Vote Yes.

Comment by Shake Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:11 am
Did AFSCME forget it has a court date today?

Comment by Nick Name Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:12 am
Well….here it is. The Great Labor war of the 21rst century is upon us. Let me just say that any war ,economic or not, is an abomination. God forgive me for my part in causing the suffering. May God make this conflict short and preserve our beautiful state.

Comment by Honeybear Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:14 am
Shake, RC-6 and CU-500 can’t vote. They get interest arb.

The number to watch isn’t the percentage of yes votes out of cast ballots. That should be at least 90. Maybe more. Because a lot of people who would vote “no” can’t be bothered to go vote. To watch is the percentage of yes votes out of the roughly 26000 “strikables.”

Comment by Union proud Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:16 am
===…6 out 10 union households who didn’t vote for Rauner. Those same consequences also include those who were actively involved in trying to talk sense into their fellow union members in a primaries and elections that led us to this moment===

- AC -,

I do feel for those members that tried. I really do. The leadership and the stubborn really tore apart Labor when unity shoulda been a given.

Rauner counted on those 4 of 10 households, and they delivered.

Sad. Sad, but it worked.

Quinn did himself no favors too, I’ll grant everyone that, but “Rauner”… wasn’t scary enough for the stubborn.

Yep. Sad.

Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:17 am
My heart is heavy for all of the people whom feel like they are caught between a rock and a hard place while they have to vote for a strike.

Comment by MAMA Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:19 am
Rearrange that deck chair for me over over there 1st Officer Lynch…

Comment by Titanic Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:21 am
Before voting, AFSCME members need to decide if they are really willing to go to battle with the Governor. Based on the last two years, a strike will be both long and painful. He’s not going to cave due to public pressure. This is one of the main reasons he wanted to be Governor in the first place was to fight this battle.

Comment by Pelonski Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:21 am
I would like the union too tell it like it is. Rauner has been planning this moment for years. He even won an election making these promises. The workers have to realize that if we strike, it’s not going to be a 1-3 week strike. It could go on for months or worse.

Comment by Nora Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:22 am
With all of the militants in afscme ranks, I’m guessing the vote will be just below 90% in favor. Also, I agree with OW. I was told repeatedly by Springfield afscme state workers that “Rauner can’t be any worse than Quinn for labor” in summer and fall 2014. You made your bed, folks. This afscme employee is switching to fair share immediately, and with no strike fund in place, will cross the line if if necessary.

Comment by Lincoln Clay Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:22 am
I will vote no and cross any line. AFSCME doesn’t pay my bills and doesn’t really care. If they did the great offers they are making now would have come up long ago. In my location I am betting 60-40 split. 60 voting No Strike

Comment by OldTimer Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:22 am
I predict a lot of people will vote “yes” even if they wouldn’t actually strike when called upon. I know that’s discouraged but I think people will do it anyway.

Comment by A non Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:23 am
Rich, please take a poll on:
1. How long the AFSCME strike will last?
2. Can you see Rauner giving AFSCME some or part of what they want to end the strike?
3.. How many strikers will get their old jobs back after the strike is over?

Comment by MAMA Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:24 am
This was an inevitable step; and let’s remember folks it is just the “authority to call a strike”. One more move on the Chess Board.

Comment by Lech W Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:25 am
There really is no good choice. The only question is how badly you lose.

Don’t strike and your job could be outsourced and you would either be laid off or offered an outsourced job at greatly reduced pay and no job security.

Strike, and if you lose, same situation as not striking. Strike and win, you will still most likely end up with reduced pay or health benefits.

Comment by RNUG Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:26 am
==DCFS employees make $79k/year on average.==

On average. Which means half make less than that. Some quite a bit less. So in your mind if half the people aren’t going to suffer it’s ok if the other half does? And have you looked at the education required to become one of the higher paid workers? I’m sure they don’t have any college loans to pay off, right?

And just an FYI, when I temped at DCFS there was a panic button at the front desk because some guy had come in with a gun and taken a caseworker hostage. Took hours for them to negotiate with the man and get him to release her. DCFS is not one of the safer jobs. That’s why in offices with caseworkers they tend to have panic buttons and bullet proof glass. At least the two I temped in did.

Comment by HangingOn Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:28 am
JustRight, how about the majority or clerical staff in every agency making about $35k annually? Way to cherry pick your facts there.

A strike is going to be rough on everybody, including small and large businesses. Everyone buckle up, things are about to get a whole lot worse in this state.

Comment by Fixer Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:28 am
== 1. How long the AFSCME strike will last? ==

My guess is several months at minimum.

Comment by RNUG Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:28 am
Why do you think that RNUG? Several months?

Comment by Mad Brown Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:29 am
“He’s not going to cave due to public pressure.”

Well, given that, thanks for court orders, very few people noticed the lack of a budget, there wasn’t much public pressure to begin with. But they’ll notice the shut-down a strike will cause. The only question is whether the public pressure will be on Rauner, or on workers?

Comment by Nick Name Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:30 am
I am surprised. Hard to imagine she would call it if she doesn’t have the votes, but I can’t imagine going on strike in this environment–kamakazi mission and Rauner’s dream come true. However, if AF doesn’t want agree to the terms, it has no choice but to strike. Maybe she will get a slight majority.

Comment by molly maguire Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:30 am
There is no option but to strike. He is destroying the workforce everday, via morale, non_ replacement, the political hires, the new contractual workers…..

Comment by Ex Spsa Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:31 am
Willy says it all in one word: sorry! We can debate forever the Governor’s ethical or rational basis for his actions, but it’s dorm rooms philosophizing now. At least so far the Governor has a legal basis for his actions, all he needs unless someone rises to save you. I have read as closely as possible the materials available regarding the “Grand Bargain” proposed earlier this week and I have more sad news. You aren’t part of it.

Comment by Steve Schnorf Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:36 am
It’s going to take a strike to settle that contract…and a shutdown to settle a budget. Heaven help the workers, and all the people affected by the lack of a budget. Neither deserve additional months of hell in the meantime.

As to DCFS salaries- a lot of those people have masters and doctorate degrees, and specialized skills. You seriously think they should get minimum wage?

Comment by Thoughts Matter Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:39 am
== Why do you think that RNUG? Several months? ==

Don’t see Rauner caving. If you believe his statements back to 2012, THIS is the fight he has wanted all along.

Comment by RNUG Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:42 am
Why does troublesome news always come out on Friday?

Comment by Saluki Matt Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:43 am
My advice for AFSCME is to hold your fire, at least until things wind their way thru the courts. The Rauner financed misinformation campaign will hammer you every day if there is a strike, just like they have been Speaker Madigan. If there’s a strike I wouldn’t bet on AFSCME winning the battle of public opinion against Rauner’s well oiled misinformation machine. I suggest hanging on for now and expending your resources on the November 2018 election.

Comment by The Dude Abides Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:43 am
A strike authorization vote is routine in most union negotiations. If the union represented employees vote “no strike”, it is the same as “unconditional surrender”. In this case though, I don’t know if it will make much difference, Rauner’s only objective is to bust the union.

Comment by DuPage Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:46 am
+1 to RNUG.

How hard is it for AFSCME to understand that this is the box into which Governor Rauner has wanted to put them all along?

Comment by thunderspirit Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:47 am
Nick Name,

The problem for AFSCME is that there won’t be a full shutdown. Management staff will take on some of the workload, they’ll hire temporary staff, and you will most likely have a considerable number of employees who don’t participate in the strike either because they don’t support the union position or because they can’t afford to do so. The effect will be crippled state government, not a complete shutdown.

Comment by Pelonski Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:48 am
This is a sad day for labor and the middle class. Yes, elections have consequences. I hope this is also true of a lack of governing.

Comment by golfman-r Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:50 am
Rauner wants the chaos. His plan is to destroy, not to build.

Comment by Albany Park Patriot Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:50 am
I ask this sincerely and respectfully: if AFSCME has no REAL strike fund and if they know Rauner means business I cannot see the strike lasting more than a couple of weeks. I do not want to paint AFSCME members with a broad brush but if the typical member has enough in savings or liquid investments to live a month or two without a paycheck then it would be hard to justify not crossing the picket line. Also - and this is a serious question - what happens to their health insurance? Will they have complete, unfettered access to it? If not then that has to play a huge role in the decision of rank-and-file members. Nothing would be worse for AFSCME management and its board than for the rank-and-file members to go back to work during a strike.

Comment by Team Sleep Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:51 am
I predict 75%-80% will vote in favor of a strike–and if this happens, Rauner alone will take all of the blame for shutting down state government

Comment by kenny16 Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:52 am
75% favor strike.
Word of advice to picketers; skip the governor, concentrate on (R) legislators.

Comment by Ducky LaMoore Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:52 am
For those not working for the state this goes to you. You will be affected by a strike. If there is a strike, possibly layoffs, there will be less people going to restaurants in town. More houses for sale and home values decrease. Then property taxes get reassessed and lowered causing less money to be raised for local schools, police, and fire departments.

Comment by think about it Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:52 am
== Nothing would be worse for AFSCME management and its board than for the rank-and-file members to go back to work during a strike. ==

That’s it in a nutshell.

Comment by RNUG Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:53 am
I’m voting to strike. It’s not if we will go down. It’s a matter of how you want to go down and how that sets us up for the rebuild. If we lay down we will die and not be reborn. If we fight we bury the ember of duty and resolve inside every Union member to be rekindled at the time of liberation.

I now embrace these words

“We count it death to falter, not to die”

I get that I am not going to be killed. But I am going to suffer. My family will suffer. I choose to have that suffering mean something towards a larger goal of solidarity with working women and men who fight against having their wages, healthcare and rights stripped from them for corporate profit.

Those who cross the picket line will lack the dignity of that conviction. I pity them. For many who have to work to survive, I understand. I hold no grudge. Cross and survive. But hold faith with those who fight and aid us as you can.

For those who could fight but chose not too, I have no words for you

I ask for your unceasing prayers

Comment by Honeybear Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:54 am
Molly,

Roberta’s and AFSCME’s problem is that they only listen to people who share their views. Dissenters who don’t toe the party line are marginalized. The result is that they don’t seek real input from their average members and have no idea what they really want. My expectation is that they will find out during a strike that they don’t have the support they think they do among the employees.

Comment by Pelonski Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:58 am
“Also - and this is a serious question - what happens to their health insurance? Will they have complete, unfettered access to it?”

They will have access to it. But it is the state’s position that members should have to pay the full cost of the insurance while out on the line. (It’s been on the state’s FAQ for over a year.) The union disagrees and I’m sure it will be tied up in court. And yes there is a strike fund.

Comment by Union proud Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:58 am
Hoping and praying for a good result today in court.

If not, we become Wisconsin, and big business wins. Privatization will be the norm, as the gov will hav the unilateral ability to wipe out any and all sections of current employees. It’ll all be about knocking out “overpaid” employees, simply because they’ve worked for years and years, just replace them with tier 2, doesn’t matter if with inexperienced unqualified people. Working middle class takes the hit and we’ve redistributed a huge chunk of Illinois income.

Springfield will be devastated, but the Governor won’t care because that’s when he moves out of the mansion, cuz any of his local visits will be like visiting a ghost town. Maybe Ms. Jimenez will play another tune when that happens.

Unfortunately, I believe a lot of members don’t see the forest thu the trees, and won’t vote for a strike.

Oh well, it’s only people’s lives, as long as we can give more tax breaks to the likes of CME or like companies that don’t create anything. The gov’s best fiends Service Master will have plenty of newly displaced workers to choose from.

Comment by MAD MAX Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:59 am
Honeybear, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Comment by MAMA Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:02 pm
==Management staff will take on some of the workload==

Only problem with that statement is the amount of management people who have left the last few years and haven’t been replaced. In the office I work for, 2 of the bureaus answer directly to Springfield because there are no managers. The 1 manager we have in the office for the 3rd bureau can leave at any time, and has been talking about doing just that. The next closest manager in Des Plaines is leaving in March.

Comment by HangingOn Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:03 pm
Union proud, Are you sure AFSCME has a strike fund?

Comment by MAMA Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:04 pm
Honeybear,

I think you are going to find that you are in the minority. The vast majority of state employees view what they do as a job, not a struggle for worker’s rights. They will make their decisions based on what is best for them financially. For many, that will mean crossing the picket line. AFSCME needs to clearly understand that before calling a strike. Accepting the Governor’s terms is bad, but it still leaves open the possibility of a future successful strike. If AFSCME strikes and loses, they essentially lose all negotiating power at the bargaining table even when facing a less extreme governor.

Comment by Pelonski Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:04 pm
@Honeybear 11:14 ==God forgive me for my part in causing the suffering. May God make this conflict short==

You did not cause this.

Comment by DuPage Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:07 pm
Pelonski, if the majority of AFSCME state workers does not want to strike and votes no, there will be no strike.

Comment by MAMA Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:12 pm
“Union proud, Are you sure AFSCME has a strike fund?”

Yes

Comment by Union proud Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:14 pm
I agree the Governor would not be upset with a strike. However if the impact was severe enough on those folks who so far have been spared any negative effects of this mess it could be very uncomfortable for the Governor, very quickly.

Comment by don the legend Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:14 pm
There is no strike fund! Why does this misinformation keep getting thrown around? There are some ideas for borrowing (see Almost the Weekend above) and has been some talk about setting one up with funds from national afscme - but there currently is not a strike fund. Until Roberta has a press conference to announce that one has been established and what dollar amount is deposited, don’t believe it. I’m operating under the assumption that one will be established, but there has been no confirmation as far as I know.

Comment by Lincoln Clay Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:17 pm
Those who cast a vote will ultimately ask themselves if they can get a better gig, with higher pay or better benefits, elsewhere.

Comment by Keyser Soze Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:18 pm
This is sad. My household will vote to strike because we have principle and character, something the Governor has never had. No one will walk into our household and tell us we are overpaid and WILL work for less money, without a fight. And if we end up unemployed, at least we will be able to hold our head high that we fought for what we believed in. And that is, the ability to perform a necessary job for $45,000/year with a college degree.

Comment by S-Town Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:19 pm
LOL. Keep crying wolf AFSCME, I am sure Rauner is cowering.

Truth - no one who is not a union state employee gives a rats rear end about this issue, or you for that matter.

That is the truth.

People are hurting in this state. Can’t get jobs. Can’t pay bills. And that has been going on for a LOOOOONNNNGGG time now, like the last 9 years or so.

Do you think any of these people care about AFSCME? Paying more for their health insurance? And all those other boo boo’s they claim?

Get a clue. You are the minority. The rest of the workers in this state pull their own weight.

Comment by allknowingmasterofracoondom Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:20 pm
==Management staff will take on some of the workload==

My office has six well-paid Merit comp PSAs and two union members doing the exact same work and the PSAs aren’t even supervisors. It’ll get by just fine without us.

Comment by Anon Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:26 pm
Someone mentioned Ms. Jimenez–she needs to get away from playing Rauner’s blame Madigan game and start representing her constituents–this is not happening right now. Her district will be devastated by a strike. People out here are really fed up with the lack of leadership from these people.

Comment by kenny16 Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:27 pm
I’m sure the vote will easily approve the strike. I doubt very much the Committee would call for a strike. If they did, most members would cross the line and return to work within 3 weeks. With no strike fund, most of them can’t afford to miss paychecks. This isn’t a budget impasse that delays payments. It’s money they will never see. How much of their savings are they willing to eat up for this? How much debt are they willing to rack up?

In the private sector, strikes are effective because they cost the employer money. The pain of this strike will be felt by those who rely on State services. We’ve already seen that Rauner is willing to let those people suffer. He’d happily take a strike that lasted several months. Very few AFSCME members could survive a strike for that long. The Committee knows this, which is why they won’t call a strike.

Comment by Twirling Towards Freedom Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:28 pm
Madmax- Illinois is soon going to be surrounded by Right to work states all vying for our jobs. Things could be a lot worse then becoming another WS. We are the worst managed state in the US with the most underfunded pension system and a credit rating only slightly better then Puerto Rico. Forcing the Governors proposals onto AFSCME sounds like a step in the right direction

Comment by Sue Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:28 pm
===…Ms. Jimenez–she needs to get away from playing Rauner’s blame Madigan game and start representing her constituents–this is not happening right now.===

Nope. Sorry. Rauner got her re-elected. Handily. Her constituents have no leverage over her.

===Her district will be devastated by a strike. People out here are really fed up with the lack of leadership from these people.===

… and yet Jimenez won, convincingly and handily.

The only person Jimenez has to answer to is Rauner. You perceived idea of worrisome “things” happening in her district is comical.

I hope you meant that as snark, then it’s actually pretty funny.

Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:30 pm
Generally what happens is that a judge will step in after the strike starts and orders both sides back to the negotiating table.

This is especially true since there will be dozens of consent decrees violated in the event of a strike. I don’t see a path back to negotiations without a strike or at least the threat of an impending strike.

Comment by A Jack Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:31 pm
“they’ll hire temporary staff,”

Without a budget, the court order by which state employees are being paid was based on the state honoring its union contract. So how will replacement temps be paid?

Comment by Nick Name Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:33 pm
MAMA,

True, but I expect a strike authorization vote will pass because most members don’t understand the sacrifice it will take to win. If they are unwilling to make that sacrifice when the time comes, there is no way for the union to win. I’ve heard members say things such as “I can strike for a few days”, but I haven’t heard many say that they are willing to go months without a paycheck. A multi-month strike is a real possibility with this Governor.

Comment by Pelonski Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:35 pm
HangingOn & Fixer …you blame me for cherrypicking facts on the average salary of employees? DCFS front line workers make mid $60k’s a year STARTING. Most low level supervisors make six figures. You’re making up stats saying that most make #35k?!?! That is laughable. I’m not making anything up. You realize pay is all public record? Right? office clerical make nearly 50k starting… where else in the real world do you see clericals making that? To paint the picture of state employees getting underpaid you need to paint a very fictional picture. We have some of the highest paid state workers in the Country adjusting for cost of living. That’s honest to truth fact.

Comment by JustRight Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:36 pm
==“Union proud, Are you sure AFSCME has a strike fund?”

Yes==

Any proof/details you can share? I’ve asked this question specifically on several occasions, not only of my agency’s stewards but also to actual council 31 employees, and all I’ve ever gotten is mumbo jumbo and double talk - never any firm answers or dollar amounts

Comment by Lincoln Clay Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:36 pm
Yeah, Jimenez. LOL.

Jimenez on her constituents: “Who?”

Comment by Nick Name Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:37 pm
My comment was snark. Once again AFSCME has over played their hand and not looked at long term future or planning if there was a strike. I only feel for Tier 2 employees who are getting screwed both ways and have no leadership looking out for their interests. Because of seniority it has mostly been tier 1 employee digging the hole they are in.

Comment by Almost the Weekend Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:37 pm
Will there be enough time between the strike authorization vote and a strike for one to quit the union? I plan to vote no. Don’t want to cross the picket lines, but my job is comparably quite hard to outsource and the terrible Rauner contract still sounds way better than not being able to feed my family and pay rent.

Comment by Anon Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:40 pm
===DCFS front line workers make mid $60k’s a year STARTING===

Heaven forbid that we pay absolutely crucial front line workers a decent wage to keep children safe!!!

Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:40 pm
“Any proof/details you can share?”

Sure this seems like a super private venue. Want to invite Bruce and JT to join us while we talk about it? /s

Comment by Union proud Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:41 pm
Honeybear, if most AFSCME members vote to strike, what date would the strike begin?

Comment by MAMA Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:42 pm
==For those not working for the state this goes to you. You will be affected by a strike. If there is a strike, possibly layoffs, there will be less people going to restaurants in town.==

Same thing happens with a tax hike.

Comment by City Zen Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:43 pm
The strike won’t last months regardless of how hard headed the governor wants to be. Once the state starts violating consent decrees Rauner will be in plenty of hot water. That is AFSCME’s leverage.

Comment by A Jack Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:44 pm
Nick Name,

They’ll hire temporary staff by signing an IOU like they are doing with all the other vendors of the state. The State is currently using temporary staff, consultants, and 3rd party providers under these terms.

Comment by Pelonksi Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:45 pm
It’s hard to say. I think more would be in favor for a strike than they were a year ago. But when I asked around this week for thoughts on AFSCME’s newest offer, no one knew what I was talking about.

Comment by Politix Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:46 pm
===Same thing happens with a tax hike.===

You’re hilarious.

Tens of thousands of people out of work is the same thing as a modest tax hike?

It’s too early in the day to be that drunk.

Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:46 pm
>> - Fixer - Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 11:28 am:

JustRight, how about the majority or clerical staff in every agency making about $35k annually? Way to cherry pick your facts there.

Comment by BBG Watch Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:47 pm
I suspect that AFSCME has already polled their members and has determined that a strike vote will pass by a large margin. This type of polling took place during the previous contract negotiations with Governor Quinn.

Comment by Tibicen Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:49 pm
Since Corrections cannot vote (because they cannot strike) judging from the people I have talked to I do not think they will get above 50% in favor of a strike.

Comment by He Makes Ryan Look Like a Saint Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:50 pm
“You’re making up stats saying that most make #35k?!?! That is laughable. I’m not making anything up”

Look at ITAP and look at the pay plan. There are over 200 Office Associates in DCFS. That position starts at 35220. Those people man the front desks of field offices and deal with clients in their worst moments. After 10 years that position steps out at 48780. None of em are making 50 unless they have longevity plus the Spanish speaking bilingual pay.

Comment by Union proud Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:51 pm
The vast majority of employees do not impact consent decrees. You may have a judge order the State to make a deal with employees who do, but that doesn’t help the rest of the members.

Comment by Pelonski Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:52 pm
I am tier 2 and tier 3 in benefits. Don’t worry about my sisters and brothers on the low end. I am not leadership formally but leadership respects me and that’s all I’m about tomorrow. I will make sure they are represented

Mama, God only knows when a strike would happen.

Again pray for me and my sisters and brothers.

Comment by Honeybear Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:53 pm
City Zen: Same thing happens with a tax hike.

What’s your point? You’ll be getting a nice tax hike anyway.

Comment by Politix Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:53 pm
I believe the Comptroller will have a say in whether any temporary help is hired to break a strike if there is no legal appropriation.

Of course Rauner could pay his temporary work force out of his own pocket and I am sure there are many who would love to see his finances drained in that way.

Comment by A Jack Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 12:58 pm
I think the strike authorization vote will be 85% in favor. Agree with others that the Governor wants a major confrontation with the union. Unfortunately I don’t think a strike would be successful in forcing him back to the table, and that many state employees would begin crossing the picket lines after 2-3 weeks. I feel bad for the workers; this is a “no-win” situation.

Comment by Going nuclear Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:00 pm
“Honeybear, if most AFSCME members vote to strike, what date would the strike begin?” I thought we went on strike Sept 1, 2016? /s

Comment by Skeptic Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:04 pm
I can’t predict what the number will be, but Rauner forced this vote with his harsh proposals that can outsource and drastically cut many workers’ pay and benefits.

I can’t make a prediction of the outcome if workers strike. I can say that in my opinion Rauner is a failing governor with a terrible record. If Rauner gets the budget deal, that could really help him, but if he doesn’t, a strike and massive disruption could add another failure to his bad record.

Comment by Grandson of Man Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:05 pm
I hope you all are happy now, you got what you paid/voted for, Rauner told you what he was gonna do and you still voted for him….next time “VOTE YOU CONSCIENCE, NOT YOUR POLITICS”

Comment by bill Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:07 pm
The GA could throw AFSCME a bone by saying that the state can’t afford to appropriate any money for outsourced jobs.

Comment by A Jack Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:18 pm
** Heaven forbid that we pay absolutely crucial front line workers a decent wage to keep children safe!!! **

Nurses, RN’s, don’t make anywhere near that to start, and their job is just as critical. More so if your backside is the one in the hospital bed.

Comment by DGD Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:19 pm
I predict between 80%-85% in favor.

For those claiming DCFS caseworkers are overpaid…Illinois’ median household income is $59,588 as of 2015. To be qualified for the position you must possess an MSW. So is a $65,000 starting salary really out of line? C’mon! These folks consistently put themselves in harms way to protect kids.

I provide the sole income for my family of 5. I don’t know what we’ll do to pay the bills but I do know I will vote affirmatively to authorize a strike and WILL NOT cross the picket line.

I started with the state 25 yrs. ago. (not in DCFS by the way) I used to look forward to coming to work. I loved my job and loved helping the less fortunate. My spirit has been broken by this labor war and my morale is non-existent. I’m so done. I will fight for my rights but I will also be counting the days until I can leave state employment.

Comment by Cubs in '16 Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:34 pm
Cubs hit it. The workforce is going to totally collapse. Trust me. If we go over the cliff you will not be able to restart the state.

Comment by Honeybear Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:41 pm
I would like to know how many workers that are criticizing others for crossing the line are on their spouses insurance? Because it’s a lot easier for you to complain when workers with kids have no other option. Seniority is protecting many of you and you hide behind the union. Cross the line if you must, don’t regret it one second.

Comment by Nora Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:42 pm
** I will fight for my rights but I will also be counting the days until I can leave state employment. **

If state employment is so bad, why don’t you leave now ? People in the private sector help the less fortunate as well, or are you staying purely for the pension, belying your “public servant” mantra ??

Comment by DGD Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:44 pm
==Sure this seems like a super private venue. Want to invite Bruce and JT to join us while we talk about it? /s==

Snark, sure, but that’s exactly what I’m referring to. Every time the issue of a strike fund comes up, some afscme official says “of course there is a strike fund!” but absolutely refuses to give any specifics or details. I’ve even asked that the information be sent to my personal email, and have offered to go over to afscme HQ on second street to get some answers - and I get the run around. Others can do what they like, but I’m not going to agree to stand out there on the line until I see some proof.

Comment by Lincoln Clay Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:45 pm
==making up stats saying that most make #35k==

Where did I say most? I said half make under the amount that is average. It’s kind of the definition of average. And just so you know, I’m 3 years in and made 35k last year as a clerical. I would top out at 48k at my highest income for the state. Not sure what clerical position starts at 50k a year, but I’m thinking it’s one of those that either requires 3 languages or works in the Governor’s office. I hold one of the positions that required more than the ability to file and answer phones so I actually get paid more than a basic clerical. There are several clerical positions below mine that get paid less. Yes, the salaries are available online. Try looking at the lower end of the payscale. It’s pretty easy to sort from low to high.

Comment by HangingOn Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:46 pm
UP - then how many people can afford to pay the FULL premium while attempting to live on a temp strike fund paycheck and some savings kicked in? When my wife had all four of us (the two of us and our boys) our yearly premiums were about $2,000 a month. I remember that well because it was what I made when I started out working in politics. That is a huge dent in anyone’s pocket - let alone the pocket of someone who is not working.

Comment by Team Sleep Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:49 pm
I don’t think the percentage of those voting to strike will be as high as some of you think. The vast majority of state workers don’t make as much as many think and won’t be able to survive what will probably be a much longer period than many think. The wise move would be for AFSCME to wait until all court processes play out. Also the public has no idea how much this strike will affect them. State services will be at a trickle and the economic impact on business and tax revenue will be greater than most realize. Sad it had to come to this since I thought AFSCME’s latest offer of wage freeze and higher insurance was very reasonable and showed great compromise, not to mention was the exact same terms Rauner just agreed to with the FOP.

Comment by Former Merit Comp Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:50 pm
While the strike might last awhile, I think many will cross the picket line when they realize that they will have to pay their healthcare premiums in addition to no pay. A family of 4 on the insurance plan could be thousands of dollars in just one month alone. No one has that kind of money. If you do, great! My family sure doesn’t.

Comment by Midwest1 Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:50 pm
First, I work for the state. I see 100’s of people coming through our office needing food or medical assistance. This is only one office (suburbs). How about the south side of Chicago! What happens there when people go with out assistance for more than a couple of days. Maybe Rauner won’t care but he will get pressure to do something.

Lets talk about salaries!!! Most people making a decent salary have been employed for over 15 years. Newer employees start way at the bottom an must have a 4 year degree. People seem to forget that unions are the reason we have 5 day work weeks, vacation time, sick time etc…. If Rauner had his way he would put 12 year olds work!!!

Comment by making a decent living Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 1:58 pm
Exactly Midwest1… but a lot of workers are on their spouses insurance and are trying to pressure people into striking. The Union also doesn’t care about our health insurance because they agreeed on a hike this week but are dead set against 40 OT rules? The unions priorities are backwards.

Comment by Nora Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 2:01 pm
Cubs, your last paragraph could have been written by me two years ago. I loved my job until 2009. Then the threats began. By the time it became truly horrific in 2012, I was too close to retirement to begin a new career. I was forced to grit it out, although I did finally decide to retire a bit early and take a small trim on my pension. Absolutely worth it to me. My heart aches for all the close-to-retirement workers, because I know just how trapped you feel. How frustrated. How unappreciated. I wish all AFSCME members the best, whatever you decide to do.

I also say, if you’re close to retirement and haven’t worked your numbers, do it! Even though I took a trim on my pension, the fact that pension, state taxes, and Union dues do not come out of my pension check went a long ways toward keeping my monthly financial situation stable. It’s been worth it as both my physical and mental health has improved vastly.

Comment by RIJ Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 2:28 pm
Unfortunately I believer there will be a majority vote in favor of giving AFSCME the right to STRIKE. I will be in the Minority casting a no vote… I do not believe there will be anything gained here by a strike, nothing but hurt, hurt people, hurt feelings, hurt families, more than enough hurt for everyone to share union or not.
Pain - Pain people will feel, pain people will see, pain some will not recover anything from because of the strike.

there is no gain here only loss and there has been enough loss …. lets just get to the end line and get back to work…

on another note … “IF” AFSCME goes out on strike, will the other unions choose not to cross our strike lines?

I think we all know the answer to this, they (majority,) will keep quiet and go to work every day and not look back….

Comment by Allen D Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 2:34 pm
@Honeybear 11:14 ==God forgive me for my part in causing the suffering. May God make this conflict short==

You did not cause this.
==============================================
4 in 10 caused this.
The Illinois GOP selling their soul to a “Governor” caused this.
And uneducated and uninformed votes saying “Them thar’ overpaid bleeps shouldn’t make any more than I do.” caused this.

Comment by btowntruth from forgottonia Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 2:35 pm
I’m shocked that as many people that have said they will cross a picket line - no one has said, “good luck with that.” I’m sure they don’t work in IDOC. Because if you do, good luck with that…

Comment by W.S. Wolcott Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 2:38 pm
Go with God Midwest and Nora. I understand. But pledge to help and actively help those out on the line. I’m going to get major heat from some for telling you that but I know what it is to live paycheck to paycheck. Cross and survive. I get it. But you owe it to those fighting for you to do ALL that you can from the inside. Now for those Tier I folks. You’ve had it great for a long long time. If you’re not out on the line, I guarantee…..well I’ll stop there. Just remember survivors, as I understand it you will be “at will”. They can move you make you perform any duty. They can fire you with no recourse. That is my understanding. If I’m proven wrong I will correct but you can either put your trust in a Honeybear or you can trust Rauner or management. I have nothing to gain by deceiving you unlike Rauner who is perfidy itself.

Survivors there will be folks who pressure you and I’m sorry about that. This is economic war and you’re gonna get hurt either way. Regardless I would be honored if you would stand next to me in the picket.
Show your children what solidarity and dignity is.

Comment by Honeybear Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 2:42 pm
@RIJ

Thanks for the support and understanding. It’s much appreciated. My drop in morale began well before Rauner took office too but his war on labor has increased it exponentially.

Comment by Cubs in '16 Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 2:53 pm
Total collapse, Rauner to the rescue, farm everything out to the private sector… now I understand why Rauner has been so upbeat lately…

Comment by Liberty Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 2:56 pm
@Honeybear
How have Tier 1’s had it so great for a long time?!? Because we started before you we should feel more of the shake up. Grow up! If tier 2 is so terrible, you should roll out.. You know what you signed up for.

Comment by ComeTogether Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 3:03 pm
The Gov wants a strike, always has and always will. state employees ARE taxpayers period. Once they strike, they are fired and hired back and less than half of their original salary- has no one learned what he has done to make his money with his companies? seriously? he could care less about this state and funny thing is he’s still out campaigning every weekend!!! anyone that thinks state employees lead a “lavish” lifestyle should go to one of their houses sometime!! because you are way way wrong and their health insurance is terrible!!

Comment by Just Me Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 3:06 pm
I just got hired with the State…won’t be a full Union member for 6 months. And I truly in my soul empathize and stand with the Union, but I can’t fiscally afford to strike. But I feel a certain way about crossing the line if I had to because I don’t wanna anger my colleagues…

Definition of a rock and a hard place, I gotta say. And for the record; I don’t even make $40K. Office staff.

Comment by New State Worker Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 3:27 pm
Btowmtruth no I am going to strike which will inflict terrible pain on those who depend on me. I did that’s choice. Always take responsibility for the pain and suffering you cause.

Comment by Honeybear Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 3:28 pm
New State Worker, I’m with you. I am in a new position in a different agency, have been a state worker for six years. I don’t make 40K either and can’t afford a strike; although, I do support those in favor. However, I also work with a temp that does nothing all day, and I mean nothing. This is what they will get if they outsource the jobs.

Comment by Frustrated Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 3:35 pm
If this temp does nothing all day, then this temp is not needed. There is some more cost savings.

Comment by blue dog dem Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 3:45 pm
I’ll try this again. If AFSCME votes to strike, they can decide when If ever and use this as a continuing bargaining tool, I presume. Just as I presume Rauner can decide when to impose terms.
There still seems like room for a last minute
down to the wire deal. But a strike authorization would allow AFSCME to move more quickly than without one.

Comment by Cassandra Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 3:55 pm
“And I truly in my soul empathize and stand with the Union, but I can’t fiscally afford to strike.”

If you’re not a concern troll (watch out for those, folks), you also can’t afford to not strike. Rauner could permanently change the state workforce to lower wages, less rights and protections and fewer benefits. They could be so-called “McJobs,” with low pay, bad or no health insurance, no secure retirement, etc. That’s the slippery slope.

“I’m voting to strike. It’s not if we will go down. It’s a matter of how you want to go down and how that sets us up for the rebuild.”

I agree with this very much. People before us sacrificed so we can have a decent standard of living and rights. I believe that it’s the duty of those who support union rights to also leave a marker for future people to follow.

It’s so much easier said than done, though, which is why the union has tried so hard to resolve this without a strike, and why I support using whatever means necessary to avoid a strike, if possible.

Comment by Grandson of Man Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 4:04 pm
So when is that merger with SEIU happening??

Comment by City Zen Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 4:15 pm
Guys there is no strike fund that I know of. I had been led to believe there was one but there isn’t that I know of.

Comment by Honeybear Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 4:23 pm
Team Sleep. It is my understanding that we get cobra for health insurance.

Comment by Honeybear Friday, Jan 13, 17 @ 4:26 pm