Unions argue workers should be paid despite lack of state budget

Posted on July 3, 2015
Illinois capitol building
(WJBC file photo)

By Joe Ragusa

CHICAGO – Two unions representing workers affected by the lack of a 2016 fiscal year budget are pursuing options to make sure workers and paid in full and on time.

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 31 and the Service Employees International Union filed the lawsuit Thursday in St. Clair County.

Both unions say employees not receiving proper compensation under the unions’ collective bargaining agreements because of the state’s failure to pass an appropriations bill for them to get paid violates the collective bargaining agreements in their respective contracts.

The unions also added their representation to a case Attorney General Lisa Madigan is pursuing in Cook County, saying that not only should employees be paid at least minimum wage, but they should be paid in full.

Joe Ragusa can be reached at [email protected].

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