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* UPDATED x1 - AFSCME responds * Rauner admin has new website for potential strike breakers

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* Press release…

The Rauner Administration announced today as part of its ongoing AFSCME strike preparation that it has launched a new website called Working for a Better Illinois. The website is a simple way for job seekers to apply for jobs in Illinois government.

“We genuinely hope AFSCME leadership will choose not to strike against taxpayers and work with us on implementing common-sense proposals like overtime after 40 hours, not 37.5,” Rauner General Counsel Dennis Murashko said. “However, we must be prepared to continue government operations and provide services that citizens deserve and expect,” Murashko said.

Every year the state receives tens of thousands of applications from Illinois residents interested in state government. This website streamlines the job application process by allowing citizens to provide basic information about the location and type of work they would be interested in performing. For citizens interested in applying for specific job titles, the existing job application process remains in place.

This website is part of the Rauner Administration’s on-going attempt to modernize the state’s technology services to better serve taxpayers, as well as to prepare for a possible strike against taxpayers by AFSCME.

Submissions to the website would provide a way for state agencies to efficiently identify those who could work on a temporary basis. Although individuals would be hired on a temporary basis in response to the strike, the State would then begin taking the steps necessary to fill positions permanently.

The Rauner Administration has signed labor agreements with 20 unions. The Administration’s proposal includes earning overtime after 40 hours instead of 37.5, pay based on performance rather than seniority, reasonable testing of drug and alcohol use if suspected on the job and allowing volunteerism at state facilities like state parks.

Illinois citizens interested in working for the State should visit: https://statejobs.illinois.gov.

* SJ-R…

The website, statejobs.illinois.gov, is basic. It only asks for contact information, a preference for what counties a person wants to work in and what job category they’d be interested in filling. It also asks if applicants are interested in temporary work, permanent jobs or both. People who want to apply for specific state jobs should continue to use the existing job application process, which includes listings at work.illinois.gov.

*** UPDATE *** AFSCME Council 31…

“Governor Rauner’s refusal to negotiate has left public service workers with no choice but to consider a strike. Rauner’s unreasonable demands include a 100% hike in employee costs for health care that would cut worker pay by $10,000, and an end to safeguards against reckless privatization.

“AFSCME members investigate child abuse, care for veterans and the disabled, respond to emergencies and more. These jobs require years of experience and training. For Governor Rauner to seek temporary strikebreakers in place of skilled and dedicated professionals is a recipe for disaster for the people of Illinois.

“Instead of trying to intimidate workers with illegal threats, Bruce Rauner should simply do his job: Negotiate with us toward a compromise that’s fair to all.”

posted by Rich Miller
Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:10 am

Comments

Not sure I’d want my name in this database…

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:12 am
Hmmm. Does this make him look afraid of a strike?

Comment by A Non Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:15 am
A good name for this database would be the “SDB” (for “Scab Database”).

Comment by Nero's Fiddle Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:16 am
“The website, statejobs.illinois.gov, is basic. It only asks for contact information, a preference for what counties a person wants to work in and what job category they’d be interested in filling.”

What could possibly go wrong? Pay? Well, we’re working on an appropriation for that but trust us!

Comment by Cubs in '16 Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:19 am
I don’t think it makes he seem to be afraid of a strike, I think it sends a message to AFSCME, we will go without you if need be.

He’s not playing beanbag with this, don’t think for min, there won’t be people giving them their contact information. If you are under or unemployed what do you have to lose? And do you really the guy working at Walmart of the local gas station is really going to be shy about crossing an AFSCME picket line. Keep dreaming.

AFSCME is playing with fire at this point.

Comment by Give Me A Break Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:20 am
It’s a sham website. Those people will never be called. The number of applicants on this “streamlined” process will be used as bargaining chip against AFSCME. Using people’s hopes as pawns. SMH.

Comment by no thanks Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:20 am
That’s a laugh. People already don’t want to work for the state. So I’m sure crippling labor discord and a lovely temp job at $10/hour is gonna get people lining up in droves… not!

Comment by Ducky LaMoore Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:22 am
Hilarious, like anybody wants io work for the state right now. This will surely fail like every Rauner endeavor.
1) the vast majority of jobs are complex and take months of training. This alone will stall out the state.
2)this was obviously the goal all along.
3)again we started started with the smallest workforce per capita then lost 30%. There is a reason why we can’t keep staffed

It’s complex work, poorly managed, and you take crap from the public day in and day out.

I told you guys.

He wants yo collapse the workforce.

Totally unable to govern.

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:23 am
It’s going to be extremely difficult to temporarily replace workers in jobs that take years to learn. Since Rauner and his few funders are super-wealthy, what do they care if social services collapse even more?

Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:25 am
To me it can double as a way to fill all the “volunteer” positions that Bossman wants to create to elbow union people out of a job with this new contract.

Comment by duckblind Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:26 am
The website isn’t intended to work to allow people to obtain state employment. It’s purpose is to sow FUD in AFSCME members…”If you strike, you will be replaced” is the lie being sent.

Comment by PublicServant Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:26 am
“strike against taxpayers”

Stop it Dennis! My stomach hurts from laughing.

Comment by Cubs in '16 Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:27 am
As usual, Rauner is campaigning and not governing. He sold himself as a pragmatic businessman who would get things done, but reality has sadly been far different.

Comment by slow down Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:28 am
This site brought to you by Band-Aid.
The trusted name in covering scabs.

Comment by Michelle Flaherty Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:29 am
The Psyops war continues!

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:30 am
Well if you want to have fun, just put in Mike Madigan’s name a million times.

Comment by A Jack Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:30 am
When I was a temp, the state had a contract with a temp agency, and the terms said they would only use that temp agency to fill temp positions. Wonder if they don’t do that anymore…

Comment by HangingOn Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:32 am
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiOHQ4Rhgx4

Comment by Ducky LaMoore Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:35 am
“[We] must be prepared to continue government operations and provide services that citizens deserve and expect.”

Rauner’s already half-way through his first term, why start providing services that citizens deserve and expect now?

– MrJM

Comment by @MisterJayEm Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:36 am
If I was the Governor and I truly wanted a deal on the “grand bargain”, would I roll this out today? No freaking way.

Comment by c'mon, man Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:37 am
So, if a person is hired during the strike do they then become enemies of the taxpayers that need to be eliminated too?

Comment by Tony Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:38 am
Makes sense to get a roster of replacement workers ready. Payroll expenses could be HALVED in short order. Sure, there’s a learning curve but having people present goes a long way.

Comment by Kornfed Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:38 am
I bet there are lots of Statesville residents who would like a temporary accounting position with the state.

Comment by A Jack Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:40 am
I know in my agency that there are numerous agreements with the Federal government that state specific functions will be handled by full time permanent employees with specialized training.

How is 1.4% going to get around those requirements?

Comment by Huh? Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:41 am
For anyone thinking of putting their personal information into this “Scab Database”:

1) This is a new system, so it’s undoubtedly full of security holes. Hackers will probably be able to get your personal information without much difficulty. Be prepared to be outed as a SCAB in short order. Remember, once you are labeled a SCAB, you’re a SCAB for life.

2) If the Governor is treating his current (permanent) workforce so terribly, how do you think that he will be treating you as a temporary worker?

3) With the state currently $12 BILLION in the hole and his ideas for the next budget another $5 BILLION short, where do you think he’s going to get the money to pay you?

Comment by Nero's Fiddle Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:42 am
Have we ever had an administration work this hard at not doing their job? Sure, it’s a fairly simple website, but it wasn’t free. AFSCME was able to reach an agreement with every other Governor, but not this one. The legislature was able to agree on a budget with every other Governor, but not this one. Compromise would be fair for taxpayers, and by the way government employees are taxpayers too. Trying to save millions in personnel costs, while intending to waste substantially more on outsourcing, is far more wasteful than reaching an agreement. Meanwhile, the bill backlog grows to unsustainable proportions, and this administration is focused on side issues, like how to break AFSCME.

Comment by AC Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:43 am
==How is 1.4% going to get around those requirements?==

Probably by ignoring them and blaming Madigan. You know, same way he’s gotten out of proposing a balanced budget for so long…

Comment by HangingOn Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:44 am
I had no idea that Governor’s general counsel would be responsible for state wide employee recruitment.

One would think this would be the bailiwick of CMS.

Comment by Henry Francis Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:45 am
Ima gonna apply for the job of governin.’

Comment by Dome Gnome Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:46 am
The fact they mixed political messages into the announcement tells you all you need to know about it.

Comment by RNUG Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:46 am
This is hysterical. Most jobs with the state require a college degree. Does that under or unemployed individual or the guy working at Walmart have a Bachelor’s Degree and willing to work for $10 (or less) per hour? Also, regarding the Illinois Department of Revenue- wonder what the IRS will say about hiring these people. Sure, let ALL of your personal information become available to any Tom, Dick or Harry hired off the street.

Comment by SMH Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:46 am
>has signed labor agreements with 20 unions. The Administration’s proposal includes…

The messaging is of more interest to me. They do a good job of presenting their proposal as reasonable and AFSCME as unreasonable. AFSCME needs a good, succinct and consistent summary of their own or they will not build more public support.

Comment by Earnest Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:47 am
“Payroll expenses could be HALVED in short order.”

Show your math.

“Sure, there’s a learning curve but having people present goes a long way.”

Because none of them do very important or complicated work like your job, rite?

– MrJM

Comment by @MisterJayEm Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:49 am
With current state employee salaries, who wouldn’t want a job with the state ?

Comment by Mockingjay Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:50 am
What about background checks? What’s to keep pedophiles from becoming temps with DCFS?

Comment by Rogue Roni Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:52 am
Once upon a time before Rauner’s reign, I applied to many IL state jobs. Their application process worked so sluggishly that I ended up landing a gig elsewhere. Seeing this mess the state’s in now, it appears I’ve dodged a barrage of bullets. Anyone paying half attention to what’s been going on with state workers should know that getting a state job now is probably worse than just sticking it out at a fast food or retail place until Rauner’s out.

Comment by Sick & Tired Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:53 am
Go look at the website and the list is all high skill job categories.

Comment by Liberty Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:54 am
==Anyone paying half attention to what’s been going on with state workers should know that getting a state job now is probably worse than just sticking it out at a fast food or retail place until Rauner’s out.==

I take that back - a state job now is probably only a little better, if not on par with a fast food or retail job.

Comment by Sick & Tired Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:54 am
“With current state employee salaries, who wouldn’t want a job with the state ?”

You.

– MrJM

Comment by @MisterJayEm Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:58 am
Yes… We don’t need to know if you are qualified for a job. All we want is to higher anyone!

I think I will request to be assigned to a high level Management position please.

Comment by OpenYourEyes Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:00 am
“Qualifications, schmalifications. I’ll just get Pence to waive all those federal mandate thingies.”–Fake Governor

Comment by Cubs in '16 Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:04 am
Sick and tired - I hope you work for the state after this is all over. I love my job. I love helping people everyday. But again you do have very poor management and people hating you. But when I help a vulnerable person to survive or get food or medical it instantly makes it all worth it.

But Rauner really can’t easily find replacements. This site is just a publicity stunt.

Why does Rauner have to be like this?

Why does he want to ruin his own workers lives?

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:09 am
What part of this stunt are subject to FOI?
1. What magoo got the contract?
2. Applicants data?
3. emails?

Maybe someone will ask.

Comment by Annonin' Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:10 am
This is the big chance for all those who claim that state workers have it made They need to immediately quit their current positions and sign up for state work. We’ll see how many opt for the champagne life. /s

Comment by AnonymousOne Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:11 am
And who is going to be processing applications, background checks, and payroll for these thousands of scabs he plans on hiring?

Comment by Anon Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:12 am
Jeesh, at least in the good ol’ days, they managed to get rid of the other side’s useless political appointees first. They, too, get retirements. Rauner hasn’t even done a good job of the usual political house cleaning first.

Comment by notbuyingit Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:13 am
Great. We can’t actually pay them or train them, but other than that, I can’t see anything going wrong!

Comment by PJ Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:14 am
==AFSCME needs a good, succinct and consistent summary of their own or they will not build more public support.==

That’s been said for over a year and never done. That shipped has sailed, and AFSCME blew it. They’re now trying to bail water with a bucket to save their ship that’s been ripped in half. It won’t. Games over.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:17 am
Maybe Comptroller Mendoza can share her thoughts about where these temporary employee wages will be in the que backlig of unpaid vendors. Doubt their payment would be covered by existing court ordered payment for real state employees.

Comment by Johnnie F. Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:19 am
I’m not sure the threats of beating and torturing people who sign up is going to look very good to the public. The perception will just be that AFSCME is a bunch of thugs resorting to violence.

Comment by Maximus Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:20 am
Help us Illinois 4th Circuit Appellate Court - You’re our only hope!

Comment by DHS Jim Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:20 am
Self centered and whiny are the two adjectives I would use to describe the people on this thread. One person advocated for violence, the rest of you are throwing around the word scab like it’s a dollar bill. If you truly believe that you are not replaceable than you should show up to work everyday and prove to the governor you are a valuable asset. If you love your job so much and you love to help people you should show up to work everyday during a strike. And if you really do believe that this website is just a publicity stunt you should think about its implications and understand that this governor is ready to fight you, the public is not on your side, you might have lots to say on capfax and the SJR Facebook comments but at the end of the day, no one is rooting for you. Good luck

Comment by A laugh Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:21 am
Unemployment in Sangamon is under 5% (from IDES). Gonna be hard to find qualified temps with those numbers

Comment by Rogue Roni Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:21 am
That website is hilarious. Cutting edge web tech from 1992! And the job categories are great. Is the administration seriously looking for scabs in these areas: “Law Enforcement/Security/public Safety”, “Sciences & Engineering”, “Health & Medical Services”, or “Law/Legal Services”. LOL

Comment by Fake Job Listings Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:23 am
Honeybear: I enjoy your comments and am certainly in agreement with you, as well as appreciative of your work. I used to do a lot of direct service work for at-risk youth and other vulnerable groups via non-profits. I’d still love to get a state job, but for as long as it is as unattractive as it is now, I’m not sure I ever want to take that risk if I can find more stable work elsewhere.

==Why does he want to ruin his own workers lives?==
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$, and he just doesn’t care.

Comment by Sick & Tired Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:24 am
@A Laugh, ok Mr. Terranova, whatever you say!

Comment by DHS Jim Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:25 am
Pro Tip:

The word “scab” does not play well out here in the real world with the rank and file citizen. People are for the most part cognizant that some other people feel strength and affinity within a union and do respect that choice. But the average citizen also understands that the need for their fellow citizens in this environment to do whatever they feel they must do to take care of their families’ immediate necessities does not make them bad people or worthy of scorn and derision and threats from those in the union.

Comment by Responsa Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:26 am
Please enter you contact information so you too can have your inboxes filled with IPI propaganda and other anti-Madigan rants…you’ll then know you have achieved the full perks and benifits of state employment.

Comment by Johnnie F. Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:26 am
== Please enter you contact information so you too can have your inboxes filled with IPI propaganda and other anti-Madigan rants… ==

I already get that from visiting their stories and sites …

Comment by RNUG Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:27 am
==Why does he want to ruin his own workers lives?==

Why does AFSCME want to ruin their own member’s lives with a strike? Because that’s the only thing a strike will accomplish.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:27 am
I don’t think the website is a publicity stunt, but rather another step in a contentious negotiation. As was the strike vote. Both sides are on a somewhat predictable path, and both, I would guess, are hoping the courts will bail them out. That could be a while though.

Comment by Cassandra Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:29 am
Bruce completes his Monty Burns imitation.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:29 am
===The word “scab” does not play well out here ===

Snowflake. Would you like a safe space?

:)

Comment by Rich Miller Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:31 am
Why doesn’t AFSCME come out and say this is not about overtime, volunteers and drug testing. Those are minor points when compared to the loss of job protections due to unfettered privatization and draconian health care costs.

Comment by Former hillrod Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:36 am
===you should show up to work everyday during a strike.===

That pretty much defeats the purpose of a strike but I appreciate your suggestions. /s

Comment by Cubs in '16 Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:39 am
My thought went immediately to background checks as some agencies and those state employees deal with individuals confidential information such as Social Security numbers as well as other confidential documents. Those state employees are bound by confidentiality laws and sign off on forms indicating as such. I think it is all really just a scare tactic and pray that it.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:41 am
” And do you really the guy working at Walmart of the local gas station is really going to be shy about crossing an AFSCME picket line.”

There are jobs that they may not be qualified for or have the certification to do.

Comment by btowntruth from forgottonia Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:44 am
That’s totally true. It’s an illegal threat. Again add that to the mountain of unfair labor practice.

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:45 am
They will still have to go thru the ridiculous grading process to even become eligible to be on the list they can interview from. Then they can only offer the job to qualified applicants from the lists in order of certain criteria( current state employee, veteran, etc). By the time you get an interview and then an offer, you’ve worked at a new job somewhere else for months.

Comment by Thoughts Matter Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 10:48 am
What AFSCME might call a scab – the rest of Illinois would call the guy/gal working to keep the child protection, veterans affairs, and state parks operational.

Comment by Texas Red Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:05 am
Every Afscme member should go to the site and register, if we don’t at least crash the site at least we can bog down the process.

Comment by Justdoingtime Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:06 am
Let’s be clear that extra $10,000 employee costs for health care is over either 3 or 4 years - AFSCME cant keep that part straight

Comment by T Sowell Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:08 am
Re:the word “scab”. AFSCME members and their leadership are free to disagree and ignore that they have a PR problem with respect to this. It’s no never mind to me.

Comment by Responsa Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:14 am
Someone is needed to box up your bobble head or beanie baby collection from your cube and mail it to you.

Comment by Puddintaine Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:19 am
It may be time to stop saying you want him to come back and negotiate. He just said he won’t do it and it doesn’t look like he’ll change his mind if you just keep asking him to.

Comment by Anon Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:22 am
>and an end to safeguards against reckless privatization.

Decent response by AFSCME. I wonder if the bit above is a little abstract to have legs though, and it’s the big issue. Rauner’s interested in the state privatizing with contracts to large, multi-state, sometimes out-of-state corporations. They would probably do things for less money, and probably less well. Do we want our tax dollars going towards corporate profits or to the people in our neighborhoods who pay property taxes and shop at local businesses so that we get some return on them?

I don’t mean this to be pro (or anti) AFSCME as I meant to point out once again that the Illinois Democratic Party has failed to lay out a consistent message that AFSCME, potential gubernatorial candidates, etc. can build off of. Fair competition is a good thing, and better competition on messaging with Rauner could have had him at the table more.

Comment by Earnest Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:26 am
nero’s fiddle: $140 million each month in AFSCME health insurance cost avoided by the state during strike wuill pay a lot of temps.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:30 am
===wuill pay a lot of temps===

There’s a two-year backlog on those payments, so it won’t pay for anything.

Comment by Rich Miller Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:32 am
Dear Uncle JT,

Please send me another one of your warm and caring emails, explaining this all to me.

Also, I am in need of a good laugh!

State Worker

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:37 am
===One person advocated for violence===

I reread the comments after you posted that. I didn’t see anyone advocating violence. But maybe I just missed it. A little help?

Comment by Rich Miller Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:37 am
Hopefully some people will sign up who can fill all of our current vacancies…

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:42 am
=I reread the comments after you posted that. I didn’t see anyone advocating violence. But maybe I just missed it. A little help?=

Second comment maybe?

Comment by Robert the 1st Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:45 am
Agreed Earnest. AFSCME’s inability to clearly and frequently publicize Rauner’s removal of the requirement to prove cost effectiveness prior to subcontracting or privatization is incomprehensible. The silence of members of the IL GA about this is deafening.

Comment by kitty Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:47 am
You know, I really wish I could bring a lot of you all to work or have you shadow a Human Service Caseworker, a Revenue Tax Specialist 1, Child Protection Specialist, Civil Engineer, Correctional Nurse, Insurance Analyst, or frankly a ton of other jobs. It would be great for you to see all the things your state government workers do. You’d be amazed and it would totally change your thinking. It’s amazing to me that people totally take government for granted and don’t realize that Rauner is moving us to Third world like government services.

I love the people I work with.

We are pillars of our community

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:47 am
FYI…..The Governor could hire retirees for these temp positions. Well trained and would hit the ground running.

Comment by Truth Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:47 am
As an AFSCME member, I think too many people are taking the threats of Rauner lightly. He is doing everything he promised. Much like the American people took a Trump lightly and now he is doing everything he said he was going to do all along.
AFSCME members have to realize this contract is for two years. If you miss 2 paychecks because of a strike, that is more than increased health insurance premiums over the 2 years. People need to think for themselves because I am not sure the union has everyone’s complete interest in mind.

Comment by Thomas Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:48 am
==could hire retirees for these temp positions==

Since their insurance costs will go up if AFSCME loses, why would they help Rauner?

Comment by HangingOn Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:50 am
Rauner’s job application site and process reminds me of a seasonal job I once applied for to do field work for a vegetable cannery. The sole application interview was, “Have you recently committed any felonies, or do you have any current outstanding warrants for your arrest?”

I didn’t, so I was hired on the spot.

Comment by Joe M Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:52 am
Thomas
I was thinking the same thing the other day. If we strike and miss two pay checks that is more than an health insurance increase over two years. A strike is only good if we win on every issue and that isn’t feasible.

Comment by Sara Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:55 am
A shame website with a form hosted at Wufoo.com - a free online form builder!!! Probably created by an intern superstar. /s

https://stateofillinois.wufoo.com/forms/zzd66gy0mgi5mc/

#Notconvinced

Comment by FailBlog Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 11:58 am
Honeybear, you are 100% correct.

If AFSCME is smart they strike now. The state is under a corrective action plan on SNAP application processing time frames. If not met the feds are actually saying they want money back from us.

Comment by illinifan Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:02 pm
Sara- here’s the thing. It’s 100% in just the first year. I have it on good authority that it will increase every year till we pay it all. The Rauner contract doesn’t cap the costs on any way. Plus if we give in and sign the contract we can’t strike or do any direct action at that point.

Do you actually trust Rauner after all this?

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:05 pm
A missed paycheck (or 2) may equal or be more than if you had increased health insurance…but, the everlasting effect that we just rolled over will mean the next contract will also include increased health care, wage freezes, more privatisation, and other ways to diminish our benefits. This strike isn’t just over what is happening in the next two years - this strike is for every contract going forward. This strike is for everything we have managed to gather from collective bargaining over the last 30 plus years.

Thinking otherwise is very short-sighted.

Comment by Consideration Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:07 pm
I seriously doubt that retirees could and would fill all position. First off they would and rightfully so expect to be compensated accordingly. Secondly those retirees know first hand what challenges (for lack of better word) employees face on a daily basis by this administration. Heck I would bet that is why some are retirees. Lastly some of those retirees I would think could be affected by potentially higher insurance premiums or less coverage if last best and final offer imposed.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:07 pm
How does this help the state of Illinois?

Comment by P. Clemenza Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:08 pm
Again folks the State can’t keep the employees it has. Go to work.illinois.gov. See how many jobs you would qualify for. Now drop the salary. You know Rauner isn’t going to pay you what’s posted.

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:10 pm
Amen HB

Comment by P. Clemenza Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:17 pm
But the contract expires in 2019. Rauner won’t win reelection. Losing 2 paychecks is more than 100 percent increase per month for 2 years.

Comment by Sara Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:22 pm
Some of those retirees may take the jobs if there is a strike. I know a fair number who voted for Rauner. They have told me they are convinced he will not affect them or their insurance costs.

Comment by illinifan Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:47 pm
Sara -also factor in that the insurance costs will be retroactive to July 2016.

Sister he is doing everything he can to force us out on strike. That is just evil I think

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:59 pm
Sara he may be reelected plus if you are replaced by a contractor, made much easier with the Rauner proposal, you lose 100% of your salary. But believe what makes you feel good.

Comment by Union Dues Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 12:59 pm
So how would these cats be paid? Green Stamps?

You think a St. Clair County judge is going to write an order to pay replacement workers without an approp.? If so, you’re unclear on the concept of judge-shopping in St. Clair County.

Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 1:07 pm
Everybody flood the database with bogus names, info, etc

Comment by Nickname Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 1:22 pm
I’ve not heard anybody ever advocate for violence. So many state workers are about building people up, not tearing them down. Many work to help the most vulnerable people get the most vital services, and to protect society from the most harmful people among us. This is why the union has pushed for reasonable solutions, including arbitration. It’s a reflection of the leaders’ and members’ attitudes.

Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 1:22 pm
I’m hoping that none of the participants to this comment board are current State Employees on the clock; there sure is a lot of “we are the best workers” but I see some of the same people commenting every 15 min for hours.. From a taxpayer’s perspective I can’t see how someone brought in to do the work in the event of a strike wouldn’t do as good a job, if not better, than even a trained and educated employee that spends their entire day on online forums defending the work they SHOULD be doing..

And on the pay, employees are employees; I’m figureing they would be covered by the current TRO

Comment by Cannot help but wonder Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 1:24 pm
Grandson, Rich has now deleted the comment from your union brother describing picket-line beat downs as one of several “perks” scabs have to look forward to.

Comment by Robert the 1st Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 1:40 pm
This is laughable…90 percent of the job descriptions are outdated (do not represent what the position does) and there are no procedures place for the actual job unless the employee themselves took the initiative to put something together. Most supervisors are so busy with their own responsibilities they do not have time to learn what front line staff do. Division Chiefs have no clue either. I only see replacement workers for triaging phone calls and very basic tasks in offices. No idea how they would do any skill matching for these jobs…it is a scare tactic for AFSCME members on the fence about going on strike and staying committed as long as it takes. I would be leery of that site for many reasons if I was anyone from the general public.

Comment by sketchymethink Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 1:42 pm
If I were AFSCME, every time the administration did something like this I’d immediate file a ULP. Maybe they are and I don’t know it. If they aren’t then someone needs to get off of the dime.

Comment by Demoralized Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:01 pm
He doesn’t need replacement workers in my office. It’s already stacked with merit comp workers who know exactly how to do bargaining unit work since they’ve already been doing it every day for years. But I understand my office is an exception to the norm.

Comment by Anon Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:03 pm
Yes the contract starts in 2016, but the agreements since has been to keep our costs as is. They are not going to be retro back for 2 years. That’s a lie by the union.

Comment by Sara Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:13 pm
==That’s a lie by the union==

No, it’s not. The plan was always to bill employees back to July 1, 2016 for the higher insurance costs. It was even stated in the last go around of the benefit choice period. Whether or not they can actually do that is suspect but that is/was the plan.

Comment by Demoralized Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:18 pm
==could hire retirees for these temp positions==
As a retiree, I can tell you I don’t know of a single retiree who would look their co-workers in the eye and cross the picket line to take over their jobs. We have more integrity than that! Besides, many of us are AFSCME retiree members as well, and we intend to be out on the picket line with them!
And for “Cannot help but wonder,” people cannot just walk in and take over a job that requires years of training and experience and (for many) a college degree or two and do “as good a job, if not better,” so don’t delude yourself. If enough people go out, the State (and hopefully, Rauner) will feel the pain…which, to explain to a few of you on this board, is the DEFINITION of the word “strike.” The retirees are behind the state employees…and most definitely NOT with a scab knife!

Comment by Ma'at's Feather Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:19 pm
== The Governor could hire retirees for these temp positions. Well trained and would hit the ground running. ==

A lot of us retirees wouldn’t think about coming back. And the ones that do will find the State has messed up the old stuff and changed things enough that they won’t be able to hit the ground running.

Comment by RNUG Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:22 pm
== - here’s the thing. It’s 100% in just the first year. I have it on good authority that it will increase every year till we pay it all. ==

My sources say the same thing.

Comment by RNUG Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:24 pm
== This strike isn’t just over what is happening in the next two years - this strike is for every contract going forward. This strike is for everything we have managed to gather from collective bargaining over the last 30 plus years. ==

That is the ball game right there. And it’s not just happening in Illinois. Look around. Wisconsin is a past example, what is going on in Iowa is a current example. Unions are under attack by bug money everywhere. Breaking the government unions is critical to their plan, because only the government unions still have what all the working public used to have: good pay, good health insurance and other benefits, and a good retirement. Until government unions are destroyed, they are a reminder to everyone else who got shortchanged of what the average working person USED to have before the bankers and venture capitalists took it away.

Comment by RNUG Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:28 pm
I am a retiree that won’t be crossing the picket line…..AFSCME is fighting for my health care plan. I will get the plan that is finally negotiated or imposed on AFSCME. May end up in court challenging the constitutionality of the health care based on Kaverva vs Weems but would rather not get that far down the road….expensive to wage legal battle and can never be certain of the outcome.

Comment by facts are stubborn things Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:28 pm
== Rauner won’t win reelection. ==

You’ve taken your time machine to the future and seen this?

Comment by RNUG Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:29 pm
RNUG

If Rauner wins reelection than everything AFSCME has been doing is for not. Because a reelection wins reaffirms that ppl don’t side with the unions anymore, effectively ending them. But like I said, the Supreme Court will do that before Rauner and is up for reelection.

Comment by Sara Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:33 pm
== Some of those retirees may take the jobs if there is a strike. I know a fair number who voted for Rauner. They have told me they are convinced he will not affect them or their insurance costs. ==

Any retiree who things that way isn’t looking at the whole picture. The State already changed the rules by forcing 65+ retirees on MA plans. And any retiree with a dependent will see those costs eventually increase 8 to 10 fold if the State gets to implement some of their goals in terms of who pays for health care.

Comment by RNUG Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:33 pm
Sara,

If you are a current State Employee, look at the materials CMS mailed you a few months ago regarding your health benefits. It specifically states that once the Governor is able to impose his contract, you will be retroactively changed for the increased heath premiums.

So look at the premiums that you have been changed since 07/01/2016 and that is what you will have taken out of your future pay checks.

Comment by Nero's Fiddle Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:34 pm
-Sara-,

I agree if Rauner wins re-election, that is the end. And SCOTUS may start the decline before them.

In some ways, you have to wonder if all this is just a way to get the unions to burn through all their funds so they won’t have any money to oppose Rauner in 2018.

Comment by RNUG Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 2:39 pm
Let’s get this started! If it worked out for the baker’s union at Hostess in 2012, it can work for us, right!?

Oh, wait..
/s

Comment by Letsdothis Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 3:02 pm
To my fellow AFSCME members (including fair share),

As most know by now, Rauner is the real deal and is trying his best to push us into striking. None of us really wants to strike, but if we have go there, we should all understand that Rauner is the one who forced this action.

For decades, we were able to let AFCSME leadership do much of the work for us. For the most part, we were able to come to work, do our jobs, go to a few meetings/rally’s, vote to ratify the (excellent) contracts and little else. Those days are now over.

For those who want to say that “the union should have done this” or “the union should have done that”, fine, but just realize now that the union needs us all to band together because WE ARE THE UNION. The strength of the union resides not in the leadership but in the RANK AND FILE.

I don’t think that any one of us wants to be saying months from now, “Gee, I wish I had stood in line with my union brothers and sisters before my job went away!”

Comment by Nero's Fiddle Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 3:06 pm
Question - how would this apply?
(820 ILCS 30/) Employment of Strikebreakers Act.
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2393&ChapterID=68

Comment by Allen D Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 3:11 pm
==Because a reelection wins reaffirms that ppl don’t side with the unions anymore, effectively ending them.==

That was made pretty clear last November in the Springfield area districts.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 3:13 pm
Nero’s Fiddle, spot on. Couldn’t have said it better myself.

Comment by DHS Jim Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 3:20 pm
By the time they can get through the Rutan hiring process for these replacements, Rauner and Madigan won’t even be memories in Illinois politics.

Comment by Whatever Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 3:26 pm
Love this guy. The State will have some growing pains but for the Union to so brazenly think that they’re all not replaceable is hilarious.

Strike away…and let’s get some fresh blood in state jobs.

Comment by DuPage Moderate Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 3:27 pm
In all seriousness… what are you guys hoping a strike accomplishes?

You think Rauner will really come back to negotiations? I don’t. I think you’re hurting yourselves.

The whole “we had to do something” attitude really doesn’t get you anything either. Guess it will make you feel better? Have that warm feeling of solidarity and comradely?

Comment by Robert the 1st Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 3:28 pm
This must be when he rips the guts put of Indiana, with Indiana state workers as new hires

Comment by Rabid Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 3:33 pm
Maybe his GOP govenors could send in some help from their work force

Comment by Rabid Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 3:38 pm
Sorry, but did I miss how these temps get paid? Not covered by the court order. Not covered by regular coctract. No applicable appropriation, and all other contracted service providers are many months behind.

My fantastic plan: get hired, walk in, pull AFSCME sign from under my shirt, and lead a parade of temps out to join the picket line.

Comment by walker Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:16 pm
To those not in support of AFSCME,

Our bargaining committee has made major concessions to the Governor. Too bad he is not listening.

1) We have offered to take no pay increases for all four years of the contract, except to allow the 40% of membership who have “steps” remaining to receive them for the final two years.

2) We have offered to have our heath care premiums go up by 8.5% over the remaining two years of the contract. This will be a large effective pay cut for 60% of our membership and a small effective pay cut for the rest.

3) We have offered to negotiate with the Governor over all of the remaining items in dispute, mostly unfettered privatization that will end up costing the state more, but enriching Rauner’s buddies.

We are not looking for a major “win”, here. We are just hoping to have a contract that only takes us a little way backwards to avoid a major defeat which could (eventually end collective bargaining in Illinois.

For anyone who is rooting for Rauner, what kind of state do you want to live in? If those other states that have wiped out collective bargaining are so great, why don’t you want to move there?

Comment by Nero's Fiddle Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:21 pm
==did I miss how these temps get paid==

Depends on how they are classified. If they are paid individually as contractual workers via normal payroll they are included in the court order.

Comment by Demoralized Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:22 pm
=Our bargaining committee has made major concessions to the Governor.=

After you failed to push through an arbitration bill. Where were the concessions during the year of negotiation and 67 meetings?

Comment by Robert the 1st Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:24 pm
==For anyone who is rooting for Rauner, what kind of state do you want to live in?

A solvent one !

Comment by T Sowell Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:27 pm
Robert do you really think that the Governor wanted to come to a deal with AFSCME on a contract? Do you honestly?

See I believe with all my heart and mind that this was Rauners plan all along.

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:30 pm
=Robert do you really think that the Governor wanted to come to a deal with AFSCME on a contract?=

No. I agree he wanted a strike. Like I said yesterday, if the union made these concessions during negotiations I don’t think Rauner could have declared an impasse. AFSCME gave this to Rauner. They bet it all on the arbitration bills and lost.

Comment by Robert the 1st Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:34 pm
But Robert if this was the plan it wouldn’t matter what AFSCME offered would it? Just like it doesn’t matter what the GA offers, Rauner doesn’t want a budget. I claim that the arbitration bill freaked the crap out of Rauner and he threw everything into it, even buying off Dunkin to defeat it. It got in his way of forcing a strike to destroy AFSCME. The 20 union contracts are pretty good deals all to use against AFSCME.

His plan all along is to force a strike. I said yesterday its a miracle we lasted this long. It’s a testament to our leadership. No it’s our rank and file that have not arisen to meet the challenge. Too many folks got too comfortable and apathetic. That’s where I’m trying my hardest every day to have an effect. We’ll see what happens. Please hold me in your prayers

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:44 pm
===if the union made these concessions during negotiations I don’t think Rauner could have declared an impasse.===

That depends on if you believe the ILR judge or the ILRB. The judge said the only impasse was with regard to outsourcing. The ILRB ruled complete impasse. The higher Court has yet to decide if the ILRB made the right decision. AFSCME was never going to agree to unfettered outsourcing so I think negotiations would’ve come to this point no matter when AFSCME proposed their concessions.

Comment by Cubs in '16 Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:45 pm
Rauner made billions gutting businesses and turning them around. That’s with a B. You didn’t give up enough Nero, therefore we don’t have to move. The reality is. You are in an echo chamber. Majority of us want Rauner to win. So we do. Simple concept. He wins. Illinois wins. You win we lose.

Comment by Walter Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:46 pm
=But Robert if this was the plan it wouldn’t matter what AFSCME offered would it?=

I think it would have. I think Rauner would have been devastated if AFSCME made these concessions, at the very least it would have delayed an impasse and stolen Rauner’s narrative. But he correctly assumed AFSCME wouldn’t give an inch.

Comment by Robert the 1st Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:49 pm
==if the union made these concessions during negotiations I don’t think Rauner could have declared an impasse.==

it’s been his plan all along. did you miss the campaign statements?

Comment by working stiff Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 4:50 pm
I know it’s been the plan and I’m sure Rauner is thrilled that his opponents were so predictable.

There were two things that could have ruined his plan. Arbitration bill override or AFSCME appearing to make reasonable concessions during negotiations.

Comment by Robert the 1st Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 5:04 pm
The entire state, myself included would be on AFSCME’s side if Rauner declared impasse after AFSCME put out their recent concessions. But it happened in the wrong order.

Comment by Robert the 1st Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 5:07 pm
Why do we keep inviting him back to the table when we know what his plan was all along? Pretty sure he meant it when he said it wasn’t going to happen.

Comment by Anon Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 5:36 pm
Any member of AFSCME that is surprised. Needs to place blame where it belongs. Your Union. They gambled with your jobs and lost.

Comment by Walter Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 5:43 pm
We are not looking for a major “win”, here. We are just hoping to have a contract that only takes us a little way backwards to avoid a major defeat which could (eventually end collective bargaining in Illinois.

This is your problem. You went for a win. He made billions squashing those with no leverage. Do you really believe that the only leverage you had was striking and he didn’t realize that it’s not leverage? You could have punched him right in the nose if you agreed to concessions in the beginning. But the years of playing checkers with corrupt minded politicians weakened you. This is a capitalist pig we voted in to correct the mess that was created here. If he wins this battle. He will cruise to re election.

For anyone who is rooting for Rauner, what kind of state do you want to live in? If those other states that have wiped out collective bargaining are so great, why don’t you want to move there?

I am rooting for Illinois. So yes, for Rauner. I want costs contained. I see this board full of state workers during state time typing away how great they are. Where do they all go when not being paid by the taxpayers to whine?? The state I want has less of you crybabies in it. That clear enough?

Comment by Walter Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 5:59 pm
I’m another retiree who is not inclined to fill out an app. All retirees who are should carefully review the “return to work” provisions” of your pension system. They’re all different, and some are different for different groups of employees. Further, don’t automatically assume that pension check is going to keep coming if you take a temp job.

Comment by Arthur Andersen Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 6:02 pm
–The entire state, myself included would be on AFSCME’s side if Rauner declared impasse after AFSCME put out their recent concessions. But it happened in the wrong order.–

Robert remind me never to be with you when you are selling your house or a car. You never accept the lowball offer first. Dude really? Yes I’ll take the ridiculously low offer after the first day of negotiations in which Rauner instructs munger to withhold fair share. You duke it out in a fair ring until you have a deal. It happened in every negotiation till now.

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 6:26 pm
A year Honeybear. 67 meetings.

AFSCME didn’t want to move any. They wanted their arbitration bill to get through so they didn’t have to move, maybe just freeze.

They bet it all on that. The bet lost.

Comment by Robert the 1st Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 6:29 pm
Demoralized, you could be right. I would argue this cohort of contracted temp replacement workers created a new special class that is not automatically covered by the original court order.

We also still have to see if that order stands up to higher review.

The whole situation is sad. Nothing good to say about any of it.

Comment by walker Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 6:31 pm
-Unions are under attack by bug money everywhere.-

RNUG is right! Bug money is killing us!

Big Bug is buying our politicians and killing our unions!

Sorry brother, I couldn’t help it!

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 6:36 pm
=Robert remind me never to be with you when you are selling your house or a car.=

You don’t like cheap cars or undervalued homes? We’re both in the St. Louis region. You’re missing out!

Comment by Robert the 1st Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 6:42 pm
- Walter - Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 5:59 pm:
I am rooting for Illinois. So yes, for Rauner. I want costs contained.
hum, what has he done to contain costs?
you said yourself - He made billions squashing those with no leverage.” - he has not governed & has made things terribly worse by squashing & is making more money as the guv…i’m not whining, i just want job protection

Comment by SURS-hostage Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 7:06 pm
Are you really in the Metro East? That’s great! Okay your stock just went way up Robert. We’re still going to lock heads but I’ll cut you some slack from time to time now! Ha!
Honestly it comforts me to know politically active folks are in my neighborhood! I’m happy about that.

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Feb 28, 17 @ 9:42 pm
Just a thought, is he going to make them take an Ethics Test? Lord knows he did not learn anything from it!

Comment by dailygrind Wednesday, Mar 1, 17 @ 12:21 am
67 bargaining sessions where Rauner did not bargain.

Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Mar 1, 17 @ 6:50 am
=67 bargaining sessions where Rauner did not bargain.=

Team Rauner moved a lot. Likely to make their case in front of the ILRB. But they still did and AFSCME did not. The union got schooled.

Comment by Robert the 1st Wednesday, Mar 1, 17 @ 8:25 am
Robert come on. I please just don’t be obstinate. Do you have a friend who was in the negotiations? I have three friends who independently told me the same thing.

Comment by Honeybear Wednesday, Mar 1, 17 @ 8:36 am
I do believe that the some of the best understanding of our Governor is to look at his past. He took horribly run businesses gutted them and turned them around for huge profits. I am basically an idiot, but I know that much about him. As he made billions doing this. AFSCME went at him with the idea they were negotiating with (fill in any Gov) they could have given their best offer first. Cut him off at the knees. Instead, they went by the playbook. As he knew they would. Now, we are in a mess created over years and years of mismanagement. He’s got the public on his side, the side of their wallets. The long play will be neglecting TRS until he can get a court to take up the fact we have no real way to pay.

Comment by Echo The Bunnyman Wednesday, Mar 1, 17 @ 8:49 am
Honeybear,
This is a fight we cannot win. It’s not just AFSCME, it’s all unions. 23 states are right to work now. The Supreme Court will deliver a crippling blow once Trumps pick is confirmed. By this time next year, if people are allowed to drop out of fair share and still get union protection, all unions will be virtually eliminated.

Comment by Bill Wednesday, Mar 1, 17 @ 8:58 am
No Honeybear, I don’t personally know anyone who was in the negotiations. But I do follow this blog and team Rauner dropped item after item, time and time again over the course of the year long negotiations. AFSCME did not. Was it just for show? Probably. AFSCME could have prevented this by doing the same. They went all in and let you down.

Comment by Robert the 1st Wednesday, Mar 1, 17 @ 9:31 am
Stop fooling yourself. There are thousands of unemployed people in Illinois with advanced degrees.

I have a doctorate, and I am unemployed. It would take me 2 seconds to get up and running. I don’t need training.

I have to eat and pay rent.

Comment by Readytogo Thursday, Mar 2, 17 @ 11:07 am
Madigan and his dwarfs run Illinois. There is no hope for economic recovery beyond bankruptcy, or until he and Cullerton kick the bucket.

Comment by Taxpayer Tuesday, Mar 7, 17 @ 9:12 am