Archives

Category: Legislative

Jul 01, 2021
Illinois budget—outlook good!

Illinois' credit rating has been upgraded for the first time in more than 20 years.

Jun 03, 2021
Progress on the Legislative Front!

In an unprecedented “virtual” legislative session, AFSCME Council 31 succeeded in positively impacting the state budget and helping pass a number of bills of importance to union members—and block passage of a number that would be harmful.

Mar 16, 2021
Pro-union PRO Act would empower workers

In a win for the labor movement, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act on March 9. The PRO Act reforms labor laws to give power back to workers so they can freely organize unions.

Mar 11, 2021
President Biden’s American Rescue Plan brings help to Illinois

AFSCME played a key role in ensuring the allocation of nearly $700 billion in investment in public services, including $360 billion in flexible aid for struggling states, cities, counties and schools—including some $13 billion to Illinois.

Jan 26, 2021
Supreme Court denies Janus

The U.S. Supreme Court announced on Jan. 25 that it won’t hear a bloc of cases that sought to financially kneecap unions for obeying the law.

Jan 14, 2021
AFSCME efforts protect worker rights in criminal justice reform bill

Early drafts of criminal justice reform legislation threatened employee bargaining rights and legal protections, but member phone calls and staff lobbying efforts blocked the most harmful provisions.

Jan 05, 2021
Closing prisons isn't the answer to state finances

A budget shortfall of this magnitude can’t be fixed by cutting employee wages and hiring freezes, or by closing prisons.

Oct 14, 2020
Illinois AFL-CIO President Tim Drea calls for action on stimulus

"This should not be a partisan issue. The coronavirus is devastating all communities governed by officials from both parties. And federal aid is designed to save jobs and public services everywhere."

Oct 08, 2020
Trump blocks aid to state, local governments

President Trump said on Tuesday, October 6 that he would halt all negotiations for a coronavirus relief bill with Congress until after the election.

Jun 11, 2020
Laid off education employees can apply for unemployment

If you are a non-instructional employee in a school district, university or other educational setting, act quickly to receive unemployment benefits this summer.