ON THE #173 • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2016

Illinois Council 31—American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees—AFL-CIO READY. SET. PAID AFSCME U.S. Postage U.S. Non-Profit Org VOTE!

VOTER 21st Floor , IL 60601 Chicago, AFSCME Council 31 205 N. Michigan Ave. GUIDE PAGES 8-9

AFSCME members gear up for election PAGE 3

Labor Board judge rules in state contract dispute PAGE 5

20th anniversary of strike at Anna Veterans’ Home PAGE 16 2 On the Move September-October 2016

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

On the Move AFSCME On the Move is published six times annually by Illinois Public Employees Council 31 The Big Lie theory of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO. Send correspondence to: [email protected] or: AFSCME, On the Move, 205 N. Michigan Ave., The Illinois Policy Institute plays a critical role in 21st Floor, Chicago, IL 60601 Rauner’s web of deception. Roberta Lynch, Executive Director Mike Newman, Deputy Director Nell McNamara, Editor Dolores Wilber, Designer

COUNCIL 31 EXECUTIVE BOARD OFFICERS State Executive Vice-President Ralph Portwood, Stateville CC, ecently public employees all across Illinois opened their mail- Local 1866 City/County Executive Vice-President Carmin Willis-Goodloe, Cook County boxes to find a letter from a group few had ever heard of—the Hospital, Local 1111 Illinois Policy Institute—urging them to drop their AFSCME Private Sector Executive Vice President Yolanda Woods, Hope Institute R Local 2481 membership and become a Fair Share feepayer. The IPI claimed they University Executive Vice-President just wanted to help employees save the cost of paying full dues. Dorinda Miller, U of I Clericals, Local 3700 Secretary ✦ Dave Delrose, Will County, Local 1028 Treasurer Rob Fanti, Sheridan CC, Local 472 Huh? What group is so con- schools. No recognition of the Now, amidst its nonstop BOARD MEMBERS cerned with the well-being dangers faced by firefighters, insults and attacks directed at State Conference Board Co-Chairs of public employees that it police officers, correctional offi- public employees, IPI actually Gloria Arseneau, (RC-14), would spend tens of thousands cers, or other public safety per- had the gall to turn around Northeastern Illinois State Employees, Local 2794 BY of dollars in mailing costs just sonnel who put themselves at and send many of those same Gary Ciaccio (RC-9), Shapiro, DC to help them out? risk to protect us. No acknowl- employees that slick mailer, Local 29 ROBERTA LYNCH Kathy Lane, (RC-63), Northwestern Definitely not the Illinois edgement of the responsibility dripping with concern for their Illinois State Employees, Policy Institute. borne by child protective inves- well-being and urging them to Local 448 Founded in 2002, the IPI tigators, disability caregivers, drop out of the union. kicked into a higher gear when public health monitors, or What they fail to mention is REGION I VICE-PRESIDENTS (Cook and Lake Counties) became gover- others on whom human lives that if enough workers quit the Safiya Felters, Department of Healthcare nor. Now they serve as an echo depend. And certainly, not even union, there will no longer be a and Family Services, Local 2854 chamber for Rauner’s goals like a shred of appreciation for the union—exactly what Bruce Raun- Ellen Larrimore, Northeastern Illinois University, Local 1989 driving down public employ- countless public servants who er and IPI want to see happen. Stephen Mittons, Department of Children ee wages, ending pensions, perform the essential functions Fighting back against the and Family Services, Local 2081 outsourcing public services, that make our communities IPI attack is up to all of us. You John Rayburn, Chicago Public Library, FIGHTING BACK Local 1215 and shielding rich people from happen every day—the garbage can start by tossing their decep- Kobie Robinson, Cook County Assessor’s AGAINST THE taxes. And they know the only collectors, snow plow drivers, tive mailers in the trash. As Office, Local 3835 way to achieve that agenda is by highway maintainers, water always, read your union bulle- Crosby Smith, Ludeman Developmental ILLINOIS POLICY Center, Local 2645 eradicating unions in our state. technicians, and so many more. tins and attend your local union

INSTITUTE’S The IPI’s role in Rauner’s Instead you will find meetings. And visit AFSCME31. REGION II VICE-PRESIDENTS web is to demonize government there—and in countless org/TheRealIPI to get the facts (Northern Illinois) ATTACKS IS UP Garry Cacciapaglia, City of Rockford, in general and public employees reports, op-eds and media and watch a new video that Local 1058 TO ALL OF US. in particular by wielding phony messages—an effort to por- exposes their true agenda. Then Carlene Erno, Department of Children statistics and distorted facts tray public employees as lazy, spread the word by talking to and Family Services, Local 2615 in an endless stream of fake useless human beings who your co-workers, telling your Tom Minick, Moline Schools, Local 672 Ruby Robinson, Collar Counties State “research” reports, newspaper are doing nothing more than family members, and sharing Employees, Local 2833 columns, web videos and media trying to rip off and game the these resources with your Face- Yurvette Simmons, United Cerebral Palsy of Will County, Local 3237 commentaries. system. They’ve got a mock- book friends, so they know the Like Rauner they are firm ing little video that portrays truth, too. REGION III VICE-PRESIDENTS believers in the Big Lie theory a state employee as someone But being aware and stay- (Central Illinois) Mark Kerr, McFarland Zone Center, of mass communication: Take who seems to have no actual ing informed are only half the Local 2767 any fake fact—for example, job assignment while looking battle. We have to take action. Gary Kroeschel, Sangamon County that Illinois state workers are for every possible way to avoid And the fall election is right in State Employees, Local 2224 Matt Lukow, Springfield Area the nation’s highest paid, or doing any work. front of us. You can bet the IPI State Employees, Local 1964 that AFSCME is asking for a $3 And that’s not all. The Illi- is engaged, trying to elect more David Morris, Illinois State Employees, billion raise in state contract nois Policy Institute has created Rauner puppets and defeat leg- Local 805 Steve Nordyke, Department of negotiations—and repeat it its own media outlets—the islators who stand with working Healthcare and Family Services, nonstop in the hope that it will Illinois News Network, which people. Local 2600 Trudy Williams, Fulton County Sheriff’s eventually appear to be true. provides stories free of charge Rauner’s providing the big Dept. & Courthouse, Local 3433 What motivates their fierce to newspapers, and the Illinois money—more than $20 million animosity to public services Radio Network, which does the for Republican legislators who REGION IV VICE-PRESIDENTS and the employees who provide same for broadcast stations—to will back up his anti-worker (Southern Illinois) Chris Milton, Madison County, them? The IPI is a secretive inject its biased views into the agenda in the General Assembly. Local 799 group, refusing to reveal its mainstream. And next month We can’t match his millions. But Cary Quick, Choate MH/DC, Local 141 Mike Turner, Southern Illinois sources of income, but media they’re scheduled to release an we can take our message directly Department of Corrections, Local 415 reports have unmasked backers hour-long “documentary” film to our fellow voters by reaching Tim Worker, Vandalia CC, Local 993 including Bruce Rauner and the smearing House Speaker Mike out in our communities. Koch Brothers. Madigan. If the prospect of the IPI TRUSTEES Stephen Howerter, Canton Correctional Nowhere on the IPI website They even control a law and Bruce Rauner hand-picking Center Employees, Local 3585 does one find any recognition of firm, the Liberty Justice Center, the members of the General Miguel Vazquez, Aurora Sanitary District, the array of difficult, demanding that has provided legal repre- Assembly makes you shud- Local 3297 and severely under-resourced sentation in lawsuits aimed at der—and it should—then visit RETIREE CHAPTER 31 REPRESENTATIVE jobs public employees perform. instituting anti-union “right-to- AFSCME31.org/ReadySetVote Larry Brown No appreciation for teach- work” schemes at the local gov- today to volunteer to help stop ers who spend their own money ernment level and aiding Raun- the Rauner/IPI takeover of our for supplies in underfunded er’s efforts to end fair share. democracy. September-October 2016 On the Move 3

AFSCME members gear up for election

Local union delegates chart path forward for working families

undreds of delegates from local unions across Illinois came together for the HAFSCME PEOPLE Conference on August 27 to chart a winning strategy for working fami- lies in the November elections.

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PEOPLE, an acronym for Duckworth over incumbent Public Employees Organized to Sen. Mark Kirk in that critical Promote Legislative Equality, contest, which could help to is AFSCME’s political arm. The determine control of the conference capped a months- U.S. Senate. long grassroots process in which “It is imperative to the local union and retiree delegates future of the labor movement in all 11 PEOPLE regions state- that we elect candidates who wide met to review legislative will nominate and confirm voting records and responses to Supreme Court justices who the union’s candidate question- support workers’ rights and a naire, as well as conduct candi- fair economy,” AFSCME Council date interviews. 31 Director of Political Rela- The recommendations tions John Cameron told con- from those regional meetings ference delegates. were submitted to the statewide “While the Friedrichs AFSCME Council 31 PEOPLE delegates listen to remarks by Sen. ; Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch also addressed the crowd. PEOPLE Executive Committee, case was blocked, the Supreme which met on August 26 and Court is expected to hear other backed firm—the Liberty ready to go out, talk with voters However, if AFSCME and “The only force strong and united Justice Center, the legal and do the work to turn the other concerned Illinoisans arm of the Illinois Policy tide on Rauner’s Turnaround,” work together and vote for enough to stop Rauner in his tracks Institute—has spearheaded a Lynch said. “People power can candidates who support is the labor movement.” lawsuit attempting to eliminate beat big money, but it takes working families, we can win a same-day registration at polling a lot of union members out veto-proof majority that can places in Illinois this November. knocking on doors in their com- ensure a fair budget, a brighter unanimously voted to endorse similar cases brought by anti- If successful, voters would face munities to combat Rauner’s future for Illinois and a fair all recommended state union groups to strip collective longer lines, delayed results and millions.” contract for state employees. legislative candidates. bargaining rights from working a lot of confusion since more There are contested races “The only force strong In addition to participation people,” he said. than 110,000 voters signed in every corner of the state. If and united enough to stop in workshops on grassroots up on Election Day in the Rauner’s money helps him pick Rauner in his tracks is the campaign strategies, dele- One man rule March primary. up more seats in the legislature, labor movement,” said gates to the conference made in Illinois? “Rauner is trying to bust he will redouble his anti-worker AFSCME Council 31 Deputy endorsements in key federal unions and hurt working assault and public employees Director Mike Newman as and statewide races. See the families across the state,” said could lose their fundamental he closed out the conference. AFSCME Voter Guide on pages The Illinois Republican party Rep. Chris Welch, the chief bargaining rights in the next “When we run on all cylinders, 8-9 for a complete list. has raised $20.9 million so far sponsor of the union-backed two years. we win.” in this election cycle … and arbitration bill HB 580. $20.1 million came from a sin- “That’s why we have to get National elections gle source: Gov. Bruce Rauner. have far-reaching out on Election Day for “There’s something deeply good, union-supporting implications disturbing about someone who candidates who stand up for spends millions of his own working families.” money to purchase seats in the During a presidential election year, the excitement legislature while at the same around Election Day is especially time vetoing bills that would Laser focus on state intense. Democratic nominee expand the right to vote in legislative races Hillary Clinton is endorsed by Illinois,” Sen. Andy Manar told AFSCME and leads Republican the 500 local union members at AFSCME activists left the nominee Donald Trump in the PEOPLE conference. conference energized to get out Illinois by a solid margin in The senator was referring the vote this fall in response to VOTER the polls. to Rauner’s recent veto of leg- AFSCME Council 31 Executive But turnout is still critical islation that would have made Director Roberta Lynch’s call for the presidential race, and Illinois the fifth state to imple- to action. GUIDE perhaps even more so in the ment automatic voter registra- “We had 10,000 people race for United States Sen- tion and expand the opportuni- ready to take on Governor PAGES 8-9 ate. Delegates to the PEOPLE ty for its citizens to vote. Rauner at the historic May 18 conference endorsed Tammy What’s more, a Rauner- rally in Springfield. Now we are 4 On the Move September-October 2016

Governor vetoes DSP fair wage bill

Rauner says no to higher wages for caregivers

years, told reporters how much she loves her job and how the low wages impact her family. ov. Rauner vetoed legislation that would “I do this work because it’s have set a $15 base wage for direct sup- rewarding,” Hall said. “But I port personnel (DSPs) who care for indi- have to work 70 hours a week G to support my three-year-old viduals with intellectual and developmental dis- son. I want to be there for my abilities in nonprofit agencies. family and the people I care for at work. I need better pay so I ✦ can do both to the best of my ability.” Sen. , a champion for the living-wage The governor’s August 26 “Employee turnover continues bill, joined advocates at the veto of House Bill 5931 came to escalate as vacancies are ever press conference. “The average despite thousands of phone harder to fill. After eight years DSP in Illinois is paid less than calls and postcards urging his with no increase from the state, $20,000 a year for full-time signature, and despite evidence agencies are having a difficult work,” she said. “That means time keeping the lights on, let that low wages are hurting the Sen. Heather Steans addresses reporters at a news conference days before the veto. half of DSPs and their families state’s community-based care alone providing decent wages have to seek public assistance to system. that ensure a stable workforce.” make ends meet. Rauner’s veto leaves DSPs “DSPs care for our most stuck with an “average hourly Coalition delivers “DSPs care for our most vulnerable vulnerable while our commu- wage [of] about $9.35, which clear message to while our community-based system nity-based system crumbles has led to a severe staffing Gov. Rauner around them. We must raise shortage that’s forced some crumbles around them. We must wages now.” group homes to close and leave DSPs across the state joined raise wages now.” many families without the help forces with the community- Opportunity in they need,” the based agencies that employ ­— Sen. Heather Steans November reported. them and the family members The veto was widely covered of the individuals they serve to Adding insult to injury, just two “We don’t have enough by the media, with one reporter urge Rauner to support caregiv- 5931 passed in May—the first days before he vetoed the fair staff to ensure the best possible asking Rauner how he sleeps at ers, build a stable workforce and time such legislation had wage bill, Rauner issued a procla- care for people with develop- night after ensuring the contin- preserve quality of services for successfully passed the Illinois mation making September 11-17 mental disabilities,” Trinity ued struggles of so many people people with disabilities. General Assembly. “Direct Support Professionals Services CEO Art Dykstra told in need. Because of this grassroots Thousands of people signed Recognition Week” in Illinois to reporters at a news conference “This legislation is a lobbying campaign, legislators postcards urging Rauner to “recognize the dedication and that day. “This system is very necessary step to address the understand how hard it is for approve HB 5931, and a coali- vital role” of DSPs. vulnerable and the people who workforce retention crisis for underpaid DSPs to balance care tion of AFSCME members, fami- AFSCME Council 31 Exec- depend on it are suffering.” community disability services,” for the vulnerable with the lies and community agencies utive Director Roberta Lynch Erica Hall, a DSP at Ray AFSCME Council 31 Director of challenge of caring for their delivered them to the governor’s called this empty gesture Graham Association for 14 Public Policy Anne Irving said. own families. As a result, HB office on August 17. “heartless” and urged AFSCME members to push back where it could hurt the governor the most—at the polls. “The upcoming election gives us an opportunity to show Rauner something he can’t ignore: the reelection of those lawmakers who stood with us, and the defeat of lawmakers who enable the governor’s relentless attacks on working people,” she said. Bruce Rauner is spending millions to elect legislators who will back his anti-worker agen- da and allow him to govern by veto. But the legislators who stood with caregivers and peo- ple with disabilities and passed the $15 wage bill could vote to override Rauner’s veto when the General Assembly reconvenes in November. “To make that happen,” Lynch said, “we need to work hard to elect a working, Thousands of DSPs, advocates and family members wrote messages to Gov. Rauner, urging him to save quality services for people with disabilities. He ignored their pleas. veto-proof majority in the legislature.” September-October 2016 On the Move 5

Labor Board judge issues “split” recommendation in state contract dispute

Rejecting governor’s complaint, judge says parties not at impasse on all issues

dministrative Law Judge Sarah Kerley of the Illinois Labor Relations Board found A that the state of Illinois and AFSCME Council 31 are not at impasse on a number of issues in the state contract dispute now before the Board.

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If the Board agrees with the While the judge found the judge’s Sept. 2 recommended parties were not at impasse order, Gov. Rauner would be on the critical issues of wages required to return to the bar- and health care, she did find gaining table instead of acting impasse in other areas. immediately to impose all his AFSCME disagrees with harsh contract terms on state some of Kerley’s findings. For employees. example, AFSCME contends The Rauner Administration that the parties are not at should “cease and desist from impasse on subcontracting and failing to bargain collectively other issues. in good faith with [AFSCME]” “While we are disappointed Protesters gathered at the Illinois Capitol building on May 18 to call on Gov. Rauner to drop his harmful agenda, pass a fair budget and and “upon request, bargain that the judge believes the settle fair contracts for public employees. collectively in good faith with parties are at impasse regard- the union,” ALJ Kerley wrote. ing subcontracting,” AFSCME She found that the admin- Council 31 Deputy Director Next steps Those filings and the the administration to return istration has refused to provide Mike Newman said, “she does recommended decision all to the bargaining table,” Lynch information to AFSCME that make clear that her finding Now that the ALJ has issued go before the full Labor Board, said. “But there is no need to the union needs to develop pro- does not prevent the issue from her recommended decision, which has indicated it could wait—Governor Rauner should both parties have the right to consider them and act on a final direct his representatives back file written “exceptions” on decision in November. to the bargaining table now points of disagreement, as “We hope the Board will to develop a compromise The Rauner Administration should well as replies to the other find that the parties are not at agreement that is fair to all.” “cease and desist from failing to party’s exceptions. impasse on any issue and direct bargain collectively in good faith”

posals and said Rauner must do being negotiated further.” so. Kerley recommended that Newman was the key the Labor Board order the state witness in the extended Labor GET THE to resume bargaining on wages, Board hearing. health care and other issues, “Ever since Rauner’s and to do so in good faith. representatives broke off FACTS! “We are pleased that negotiations with our union the ALJ’s recommendation back in January and walked While they are working hard every day to serve the people of Illinois, underlines what AFSCME has away from the bargaining table, state employees should not have to worry about their future. been saying all along,” AFSCME AFSCME has repeatedly made Council 31 Executive Director clear that we want to reach a Illinois state employees have been inundated with misleading and negative Roberta Lynch said. “There is fair agreement,” Newman said. communications from Gov. Bruce Rauner and his administration. no impasse on key issues, and “We are still prepared to do the For example, the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) the parties should get back hard work of compromise to has produced videos rife with falsehoods and glaring omissions about key issues of to the bargaining table to make that possible.” contract negotiations, including health care and what happens if state employees are resolve them.” In contrast, the Raun- forced to strike. er Administration for eight AFSCME31.org/FairContract is a new web page that provides factual information A “split” decision months has refused to even about what’s at risk in this fight for a fair state contract and how the administration’s meet with the AFSCME Bar- last, best and final offer would impact AFSCME members and their families. AFSCME Council 31 is asking gaining Committee. Instead, One of the first posts on the website is a two-minute AFSCME video (pictured) the Labor Board to order the Rauner wants the unilateral Rauner Administration to power to impose his demands, debunking some of the most misleading statements from a CMS video about the return to the bargaining table forcing public service workers Rauner Administration’s health care proposals. and negotiate in good faith. The in state government to work ALJ upheld much but not all of under his unfair terms or go out AFSCME31.org/FairContract the union’s argument. on strike. 6 On the Move September-October 2016

Building our union

City of Chicago membership grows

has helped modernize printing operations while saving the city money by keeping more iz Supa had not received a raise from her complex jobs in-house: “It’s employer in six years. AFSCME members turned into a union print shop!” at the City of Chicago have negotiated she said proudly. L Supa’s position was certi- good contracts over the years, but employees fied last year. “Now I can like Supa who were not union members have count on raises in the future to fallen behind. alleviate the costs of living in the city of Chicago.” And she’s not alone. Since ✦ the beginning of 2015, 200 employees in more than 30 job titles have signed up to join “When I started in 2008, we isn’t fair. So we decided to try to the more than 3,000 AFSCME were the same [wage rate] as join the union too.” members who work for the city AFSCME members,” Supa said. Supa, a reprographic of Chicago. “But now it’s way different … technician III stationed at police they keep getting raises. We headquarters, has worked for A helping hand Daphne Smith of Local 505 attended the International Convention this summer in Las were like, wait a minute. This the city for eight years. She Vegas. She has been helping organize co-workers to become AFSCME members. Daphne Smith became a union steward with AFSCME Local the employees who recently human resources department, 505 years ago, after unfair treat- petitioned to join AFSCME. A has worked for the City of ment from a supervisor com- senior procurement specialist Chicago for 20 years. She just pelled her to file a grievance. “I who has served the city for became an AFSCME member hadn’t even read my contract, almost 15 years, Jeongco has last year. but my union steward told me taken it upon herself to help “As a union member, I will I had rights,” she said. “That’s organize co-workers to join the get a step increase for the next when I became really interested union. five years, whereas before I in the union.” “There are a lot of issues would have been stuck where Smith is a communicable that aren’t being addressed. I was,” Mills said. “Now the disease control investigator, How do you go to management salary for my last five years will traveling throughout the city for assistance when your be higher so I can retire earlier. to ensure that individuals with issue is with management?” And I have AFSCME to thank infectious diseases are getting Jeongco asked. “That doesn’t for that.” the treatment they need. really work. With a union, we City of Chicago employees “I noticed the unfairness in will have representation.” are continuing to organize as wages, benefits, and the treat- word spreads. And AFSCME ment of non-union employees Brighter future with members like Smith are ready and I started reaching out to AFSCME with support and encouragement. them,” Smith said. “You have to “I tell people who aren’t pay it forward.” Dionne Mills, an adminis- happy that a unit is better than Liz Supa at work in the “union print shop” at Chicago Police Department headquarters. Rona Jeongco is one of trative services officer II in the one,” Smith said. “A helpful hand is better than a finger.”

Homewood Public Library employees win union

Margaret Novak, a reference librarian at the Homewood Public Library, said cuts to hours, benefits and paid time off led her to seek union representation with AFSCME— and her fellow members were ready to organize too. “Morale was just so poor that finally we’d had enough,” Novak said. Novak and her co-workers petitioned to join AFSCME earlier this year and were certified as a union in August. Lisa Stilts said she got involved because “we had no voice at all.” Stilts even considered finding another job, but she decided to stay and try to make a difference at the library. “I thought: I can’t just leave. This is the district I pay taxes to, where I raised my children, and we weren’t providing the kinds of services we should have been. They’re going to have to listen to us now.” A majority of Homewood Public Library employees signed up to join AFSCME Council 31 in a matter of hours due to the strength and unity of the organizing committee. Even their families were supportive of the workers’ decision to unionize. “These last years at work have affected them because you can’t help but take stuff home with you,” Stilts said of her family. “I have teenage daughters and now they know I’ll take up the fight. I think it is important to show girls that no one else is going to do it for us.” According to Novak, since organizing the union, morale has already improved at the library. “This was a big boost. Now there is a light at the end of the tunnel.” New AFSCME members at Homewood Public Library, from left to right: Lisa Stilts, Ashley Sander, Margaret Novak, Sandy Sullivan, Kym McNabb and Kathy Tisoncik. September-October 2016 On the Move 7

Corrections staff protest unsafe working conditions

Increasing breakdown of order puts safety and security at risk

need help,” said Steve Howerter, failed to follow procedures. But doing our job for 22 years,” president of AFSCME Local that claim was never substan- Portwood said. “The decisions 3585 at Canton Correctional tiated. the administration is making fter six Pontiac Correctional Center Center. “But the hard part is The root of the problem, don’t coincide with what we’re employees were assaulted by inmates that they are treated differently officers say, is that staff have dealing with on the ground.” on August 21, frontline staff picketed while living with the general no input on safety issues. One major problem is that A population. That creates an “In 18 years I’ve never security staff has a hard time outside the prison, demanding input on poli- unsafe environment for every- had any policymaker or maintaining order when many of cies and procedures to ensure the safety of both one.” administrator come and ask, the inmates face no consequences employees and inmates. A similarly motivated Howerter, a corrections ‘How can we make it better?’ for even the most severe actions. counselor, has worked for IDOC or ‘What do you think of this “More and more inmates protest at Stateville Correctional Center two for nearly 30 years. Employees policy?’” said Kelley Beale, a are acting out and we have less weeks later pointed to systemic problems in Illi- are doing their best, he said, but correctional officer at and less control. Our hands are nois state prisons. staff shortages and the grow- Shawnee Correctional Center tied,” Portwood said. ing number of SMI-diagnosed and president of AFSCME “The current situation, in inmates make a difficult job Local 3605. which both staff and inmates ✦ even harder. “We’re not set up to be a “We’ve got inmates with serious mental health facility,” he said. “We have repeatedly called are contingent upon the state issues that definitely need help … attention to the growing safety approving a budget—yet new No support from but we’re not set up to be a problems at Pontiac Correc- policies are already being the top tional Center, but our concerns implemented without the mental health facility.” have not been addressed,” said necessary resources to make Support for security staff from correctional officer Joe Lewis, them effective. DOC during this time of great “They don’t want to hear are at risk, cannot continue,” president of AFSCME Local Inmates are already being change has been minimal. what we’ve got to say, but when said Eddie Caumiant, AFSCME 494. “Violent incidents like screened and diagnosed as “We want to do the right something goes wrong they say Council 31 regional director. this are becoming more and severely mentally ill (SMI), thing, we try to do the right we’re not doing our job. It’s a “The AFSCME DOC Standing more common. They are the which means their penalties thing, but we’re overwhelmed,” lose-lose situation.” Committee has made that direct result of a lack of for rule infractions are minimal Howerter said. “And the first Ralph Portwood, a correc- extremely clear with manage- employee involvement in compared to general popula- thing that happens after tional sergeant at Stateville ment. We strongly object to any safety issues.” tion inmates. This new policy something like the incident at Correctional Center for 22 years attempt to scapegoat employees Corrections staff have has been mandated before any Pontiac? The administration and president of AFSCME Local for the problems that are arising been dealing with increasingly treatment units have been picks apart staff response.” 1866, echoes these concerns. and will continue to meet with violent outbursts and harass- made available to house Shortly after security staff “They gave us two days DOC to develop a plan of action ment of all kinds, including SMI inmates. members were assaulted at Pon- of training regarding the SMI that prioritizes the safety of kicking, punching, thrown urine “We’ve got inmates with tiac, DOC made a public state- inmates and that’s supposed staff and inmates.” and feces, and even assaults serious issues that definitely ment claiming that employees to change the way we’ve been with handmade weapons. Officers at correctional facilities across the state share the same concern: New policies and procedures are being mandated with no input from staff on the ground and without the resources needed to implement the changes safely.

Mental health lawsuit settlement

A class action lawsuit regard- ing treatment of mentally ill inmates resulted in a settlement between the Department of Corrections (DOC) and the plaintiffs. Known as Rasho, the settlement requires millions of dollars for new residential treatment units for mentally ill inmates and increased mental health and security staff. When U.S. District Court Judge Michael Mihm approved the settlement, he warned that the unresolved state budget is “the 900-pound gorilla in the room.” Many of the improvements that aim to protect the safety of inmates and security staff Pontiac Correctional Center | PHOTO: THE PANTAGRAPH 8 On the Move September-October 2016 READY. SET. VOTE. Voter Guide: 2016 General Election Election Day 2016 will have a decisive impact on the future of workers’ rights in Illinois. The following candidates are recommended by AFSCME Council 31.

NATIONAL RACES Senate District 49: Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant (D) House District 62: (D) PRESIDENT: Hillary Clinton (D) Senate District 50: Sam McCann (R) House District 63: John Bartman (D) U.S. SENATE: (D) Senate District 52: Scott Bennett (D) House District 68: Tricia Sweeney (D) U.S. CONGRESS: Senate District 58: Sheila Simon (D) House District 69: Angelique Bodin (D) District 1: Bobby Rush (D) Senate District 59: (D) House District 71: Mike Smiddy (D) House District 72: Mike Halpin (D) District 2: Robin Kelly (D) ILLINOIS HOUSE OF House District 74: Bill Butts (D) District 3: Dan Lipinski (D) REPRESENTATIVES: House District 75: Martha Shugart (D) District 5: Mike Quigley (D) House District 6: (D) House District 76: Andy Skoog (D) District 7: Danny Davis (D) House District 10: Melissa Conyears (D) House District 77: (D) District 8: Raja Krishnamoorthi (D) House District 11: Ann Williams (D) House District 79: Kate Cloonen (D) District 9: Jan Schakowsky (D) House District 12: (D) House District 81: Greg Hose (D) District 10: Brad Schneider (D) House District 15: John D’Amico (D) District 11: Bill Foster (D) House District 84: (D) House District 18: (D) House District 93: John Curtis (D) District 12: CJ Baricevic (D) House District 20: Merry Marwig (D) District 17: Cheri Bustos (D) House District 94: Bobby Pritchett (D) House District 24: Lisa Hernandez (D) House District 95: Mike Mathis (D) STATE RACES House District 35: Frances Hurley (D) House District 96: (D) : Susana Mendoza (D) House District 44: (D) House District 99: Tony DelGiorno (D) : House District 45: Cynthia Borbas (D) House District 110: Dennis Malak (D) Senate District 22: (D) House District 46: (D) House District 111: Dan Beiser (D) Senate District 23: (D) House District 48: Steve Swanson (D) House District 112: Katie Stuart (D) Senate District 25: Corrine Pierog (D) House District 50: Valerie Burd (D) House District 113: (D) Senate District 26: Kelly Mazeski (D) House District 55: (D) House District 114: LaToya Greenwood (D) Senate District 28: (D) House District 56: (D) House District 115: Marsha Griffin (D) Senate District 29: (D) House District 59: Carol Sente (D) House District 116: Jerry Costello (D) Senate District 31: Melinda Bush (D) House District 60: (D) House District 117: John Bradley (D) Senate District 38: Christine Benson (D) House District 61: Nick Ciko (D) House District 118: Brandon Phelps (D)

AFSCME members speak out for state senate candidates

Senate District 31: Melinda Bush (D) Cheryl Graham, President of AFSCME Local 785 You can look at her voting record – Sen. Melinda Bush is 100 percent for us. She told me once that she is one of us: She is a worker. Her opponent may have more money than her, but they will never outwork her. It doesn’t get much better than Sen. Melinda Bush. She is everything we need in politics. She is Rauner’s Number One target because she goes against what he’s trying to do. That’s why members of my local are going door-to-door as many Saturdays as possible to support Sen. Melinda Bush.

Senate District 52: Senate District 59: Scott Bennett (D) Gary Forby (D) Ann Zettervall, President of AFSCME Local 3700 Julie Yana, President of AFSCME Local 141 I’m going to vote for Sen. Scott Bennett because he We don’t have to lobby Sen. Gary Forby. He’s for Southern supports labor unions and workers 100 percent. Illinois, he’s for labor. He has a 100 percent voting record Sen. Bennett is very active in our community. for AFSCME. I see him at every event. It’s really wonderful to have Sen. Forby is really invested in Southern Illinois and he’s someone who clearly cares about what’s going on. very accessible if you need to speak with him. He always Scott Bennett spoke at our last membership takes the time to listen. He speaks our language and he meeting. AFSCME Local 3700 will be knocking on understands what we’re going through. doors to get him reelected and will be recruiting more Local 141 will absolutely be walking the streets, going volunteers to join us. door-to-door for Sen. Forby. We’re sharing his message with our members. We all know him and we know he needs our vote. We know he fights for us. September-October 2016 On the Move 9 AFSCME members speak out for state house candidates

House District 20: House District 71: Merry Marwig (D) Mike Smiddy (D) Roberto Botello, Recording Secretary of Carlene Erno, President of AFSCME Local 2615 AFSCME Local 1610 Candidates say lots of things during elections that don’t Merry Marwig understands the struggles that labor faces. always come true. But your voting record doesn’t lie. I know this because she was present during the PEOPLE Rep. Mike Smiddy has a 100 percent voting record for endorsement meeting and she has a lot of support in the labor and you can’t argue with that. district. Our local and our community are totally committed Incumbent Rep. Michael McAuliffe no longer supports to make sure we have a champion for labor in the house, labor—he supports the governor’s turnaround agenda. and that is Rep. Mike Smiddy. We don’t have to call Mike He’s already running TV ads. Smiddy and tell him how to vote because he knows how to I’m taking it upon myself to volunteer with the get- vote. He was an AFSCME member. out-the-vote campaign. I’m going to talk to voters in my Labor can never match the dollar amount that the top community to ensure they’re aware that it’s an election one percent of America is putting in these races to buy year and that AFSCME-endorsed Merry Marwig is an candidates. So the lies, the misinformation that is being important candidate. put out constantly over the airwaves about Mike Smiddy from billionaire Bruce Rauner has to be fought with boots on the ground from AFSCME and labor. And that’s the House District 79: only way we can win this race. Kate Cloonen (D) House District 93: Gary Ciaccio, AFSCME Local 29 John Curtis (D) I’m going to work hard to get Rep. Kate Cloonen reelected. During her two terms, she’s been very Keith Powell, President of AFSCME Local 3567 accessible. We made several hundred calls to Rep. Hammond on Every time we needed her vote, she was there. No SB 1229 and HB 580 [fair arbitration bills for state matter where anyone else stood, she was there with us: employees]. We met with her in Springfield on numerous on back pay, on the budget, on the arbitration bill. Any occasions. I thought she was with us, but obviously time we asked, she listened to our issues and she was Rauner got to her. She lied to my face. there for us. That’s why I’m actively helping AFSCME-endorsed Gov. Rauner is pouring more than one million dollars John Curtis. He’s a fair man. He wants to do the right in this race because he wants Kate Cloonen gone. We thing. He understands unions; he’s an IFT union member. have to get out and do the work to make sure she stays. But he’s at a disadvantage because of the amount of money being pumped into Hammond’s campaign. House District 95: She has giant billboards all over the place bought with Mike Mathis (D) Rauner money. I’m going to do as much as I can to help John Curtis. Dave Spinner, President of AFSCME Retiree I think he would do the right thing. Sub-Chapter 87 AFSCME members and retirees cannot trust incumbent Rep. after her betrayal on the House District 99: arbitration bill. Rep. Bourne voted present on SB 1229 Tony DelGiorno (D) when only one more vote was needed to override the veto. Brian Bond, President of AFSCME Local 2600 I am voting for AFSCME-endorsed Mike Mathis. Mike When incumbent Rep. Sara Wojcicki-Jimenez first took is an IMRF Retiree and one of us. office, many of us in the area had gone to talk to her and I am going to do everything I can to ensure that Mike she would say she supported state employees, but at the Mathis wins this race. He will stand with his district. end of the day her actions did not reflect her words. The calls and communications she received were House District 115: overwhelmingly telling her to support state employees Marsha Griffin (D) and she still did not vote to help us. Bottom line is she does not represent her constituents. Jerry Grammer, President of AFSCME Local 1175 AFSCME-endorsed Tony DelGiorno is a person born AFSCME-endorsed Marsha Griffin is a teacher and her and raised locally. He’s not from a wealthy family. He is husband has a long history of service in corrections. someone that government employees can count on to Incumbent Rep. has a background in represent us. corrections too, but more than 70 percent of the time she’s It’s going to be close. We need to get out and go door voted against us or not voted at all. I’m not going to vote to door or phone bank to help Tony DelGiorno get his for someone who votes no on issues that are important to message out. my life. I thought for sure she was going to be on our side. But she totally disappointed us with her voting record. I’m not going to trust her again. I will definitely be volunteering for Marsha Griffin because I don’t want Terri Bryant in office again.

COUNTY RACES CHAMPAIGN LAKE SALINE Auditor: John Farney (R) Circuit Clerk: Erin Cartwright Weinstein (D) State’s Attorney: Mike Henshaw (D) County Board 5: Peter Tracy (D) LASALLE WILL County Board 11: James Tinsley (D) State’s Attorney: Brian Towne (D) Coroner: Patrick O’Neal (D) COOK Recorder: Mary Beth Kuhn-Feltman (D) Recorder: Kristin Cross (R) State’s Attorney: Kim Foxx (D) County Board 13: Dave Torres (D) County Board 1: Robert Howard (D) MADISON County Board 4: Jacqeline Traynere (D) JOHNSON County Board 6: Joe VanDuyne (D) State’s Attorney: Andrew Wilson (D) County Board Chair: Alan Dunstan (D) State’s Attorney: Tom Gibbons (D) County Board 10: Joe Carlasare, Tyler Marcum (D) KANE County Board 12: Larry Gilman (D) County Board 6: Brian Dahl (D) ROCK ISLAND County Board 13: Mark Ferry, Bill Thoman (D) Circuit Clerk: Tammy Weikert (D) County Board 8: (D) Recorder: Kelly Fisher (D) WILLIAMSON County Board 10: Todd Zies (D) County Board 7: Steve Doye (D) State’s Attorney: Brandon Zanotti (D) County Board 18: Nicolas Jimenez (D) County Board 8: Brian Vyncke (D) WINNEBAGO KANKAKEE County Board 9: Jeff Deppe (D) County Board Chair: John Nelson (D) Auditor: Deborah Woodruff (D) County Board 10: Cecelia O’Brien (D) Coroner: Bill Hintz (R) Treasurer: Nick Allen (D) County Board 13: Richard Brunk (D) County Board 10: Joe Hoffman (D) State’s Attorney: Jim Rowe (D) County Board 22: Ryan Shoemaker (D) County Board 12: Jamie Salgado (D) Circuit Clerk: Jeffrey Hackley (D) County Board 24: Tim Erno (D) County Board 17: David Soll (D) 10 On the Move September-October 2016

SHORT REPORTS

Court sides with When the board issued its employees in Lake decision, Brin said he would County Clerk Office appeal. However, he later rescinded that statement and

pledged to bargain with the Affirming an Illinois Labor union members. Relations Board decision, a “We came together to form state appellate court rejected our union because we weren’t Lake County Circuit Clerk Keith being treated fairly,” said Brin’s attempts to avoid bar- Cindy Robers, an employee in gaining with his employees and the clerk’s office. “The clerk’s confirmed certification of their harassment and intimidation union, AFSCME Council 31. of us is out of bounds. We’re “Circuit clerk employees more determined than ever to serve the people of Lake County win a fair union contract and and we keep the courts running. respect for the public service we We are dedicated to our work,” provide.” said Louise Moore, an employee in the clerk’s office. “The court’s decision allows us to negotiate Wall Street can work together with management for for us a fair contract. I hope the circuit clerk is ready to come to the What if the federal govern- table so we can work together to ment could raise hundreds of create fair working conditions billions of dollars for education, and improve public services.” infrastructure and other critical About 120 clerk’s office needs by leveling a miniscule employees organized a union tax on trades of stocks, bonds, with AFSCME, which was derivatives and other invest- officially certified in July 2015. ments? What if that tiny tax Lake County clerks delivered a petition to the County Administrator on July 26, calling for improved staffing. For more than a year, County would also benefit working The financial sector has yet the financial sector compensates pay on their investments, and Clerk Brin categorically refused families? to pay its debts to the U.S. other sectors of the economy shrinking unproductive parts to begin the process of negotiat- This hypothetical win-win economy after creating the (particularly U.S. households) of the financial sector, an FTT ing a contract. for our economy is actually a very Great Recession of 2008 for the damage the sector inflict- would help Wall Street work real revenue solution called the that continues to plague ed,” the report states. “Through for Main Street.” financial transaction tax (FTT). “The court’s working families. generating tax revenues, It’s hard to argue with that. The Economic Policy “An FTT would help ensure decreasing the fees Americans decision allows us Institute (EPI) recently released to negotiate with a report that found an FTT would “result in a combination management of increased tax revenue Aurora community and decreased waste from a speaks out to save so we can work bloated financial sector.” While library services together to create generating huge revenues, the tax would also serve to limit More than 100 community fair working financial transactions that have members filled the West Branch conditions and no benefit for taxpayers. of the Aurora Public Library on “Essentially, households August 8 to protest the Library improve public and non-financial businesses Board’s planned cuts to staff services.” would no longer be paying for and services. The library’s financial transactions that add parking lot was completely filled no value to the economy,” said with cars. Many people in the His office was charged with EPI analyst Hunter Blair, who standing-room-only crowd wore An Aurora mother tells the library board how much the library means to her family. repeated violations of Illinois authored the report along with stickers demanding “No cuts!” labor law. The labor board Josh Bivens. “This is as good as cal services the library provides. the Aurora City Council would issued complaints alleging that a tax cut for them, and boosts John Savage, president be happy to consider passing it. Brin illegally intimidated and their disposable income.” “Our community of the Library Board, stressed Numerous community interfered with employees While proposed FTTs are will continue to the importance of “focus[ing] members spoke out, many of who helped organize the very small, the tax is capable of on a balanced budget” during them expressing anger about union—even firing one worker raising billions because the vast fight back against his presentation at the August the disproportionate cuts to the in retaliation for exercising her numbers of trades conducted in the library 8 meeting. Following Savage, West Branch and the closing of union rights. the financial sector are worth Alderman Carl Franco urged the Church Road Express Cen- “It’s time for Keith Brin to hundreds of trillions of dollars. board’s cuts.” the library board to consider ter. One mother who depends put an end to the hostile work That’s why the tax has steadily increasing the library tax levy on the Express Center started environment he’s created and gained political support. Several Members of AFSCME to prevent the cuts. crying while talking about how recognize the important work proposals have already been put Local 2283 at the Aurora Public Ald. Franco said that his much her children and her that his employees perform for forward in Congress—and Sen. Library organized protests and office had been flooded with community need the Church the citizens of Lake County,” Bernie Sanders’s presidential community meetings over sev- calls and emails from concerned Road branch. said AFSCME Council 31 Staff campaign used the FTT as a eral months to ensure the public citizens who want to preserve “I’ve been hearing now Representative Colin Theis. way to pay for its expansion of was aware of the proposed cuts. services at their public library. that you guys are ripping “Employees just want to be college aid. In response, the community He said if the Library Board apart our library and I said to treated with respect.” came together to save the criti- would recommend a tax levy, continued on page 11 September-October 2016 On the Move 11

IPRA investigators fight for fairness, accountability

IPRA Investigator he City of Chicago’s Independent Police Review Authority (IPRA) could be abol- LAKENYA WHITE ished if Mayor ’s proposed T ordinance passes the Chicago City Council. However, the ordinance is silent on what will Excerpts from testimony happen to the staff of the agency, including to the Chicago City Council’s AFSCME-represented IPRA investigators. Progressive Caucus ✦ My name is LaKenya White and I am an investigator with the Independent Police Review Authority, IPRA. I have a After several high-profile Members of AFSCME Local instances of police misconduct, 654 have met with aldermen, bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and I am currently the city’s police department briefing them about the work working on my master’s degree. I began working as an faces widespread demands for a they do and responding to their investigator in 2007 when IPRA was formed. more robust review of all allega- concerns. AFSCME Council I am now a shooting specialist, which means I have the responsibility to respond tions of officer-involved shoot- 31 also submitted a report to to police shootings to conduct the preliminary investigation. This requires that I have ings and other questionable members of the city council that incidents. A report from the explained how IPRA investiga- significant training not only from the Chicago Police Department, but from the Illinois task force assigned to investi- tors are highly trained profes- State Police, Northwestern University, and other agencies and organizations. gate current procedures recom- sionals whose efforts have been I am also the mother of two children, a 17-year-old African American male and mended replacing IPRA with a circumscribed by managerial a 13-year-old African American female. While I worry about my children being the new civilian police investigative edicts, legal restrictions and victim of a senseless crime, I also struggle in the back of my mind if my children agency, as reflected in Emanu- inadequate resources. el’s ordinance. The union will continue will be stopped by the police and how their interaction with the police will work out. While the report did not its efforts to educate the city I know that reform in the Chicago Police Department and IPRA needs to occur. find frontline IPRA investiga- council and the mayor about I, along with my fellow investigators, want to be part of the solution to help reform tors at fault, there have been no the importance of preserving police accountability. answers from the mayor’s office the experienced, professional IPRA investigators recognize that our agency is an essential component of the on what will happen to current investigators in any new police investigators if IPRA is replaced. review agency. current police oversight process and the logical focus of reform efforts. But proposals to completely dismantle IPRA, including its current investigative staff, are impractical, unfair, and could significantly set back efforts at improving police accountability. IPRA investigators are required Aurora community continued from page 10 to follow CPD’s Use of Force model. “IPRA investigators want According to the Use of Force myself, ‘What, what are we with the board, but cautioned model, the amount of force used going to be doing?’ Because a that it would not be in time to to be part of the solution by an officer must be objectively lot of people, a lot of seniors, stop the cuts. to help reform police reasonable in light of the they don’t have a way to go In response to the pub- circumstances faced by the officer, to the big library. They go by lic outcry, the Aurora Public accountability.” walking to the express center. Library board modified the as perceived by the officer on the My kids go by walking to the proposed cuts. Rather than cut scene. Investigators cannot consider express center… West Branch hours by 35 subsequent evidence that a person “I don’t understand what percent, the board now plans did not pose a threat. In order for any reform to occur, CPD’s Use of Force model must happened. They gave us some- to cut hours at West by be revised. thing very good for the commu- 25 percent and Santori by nity and now they want to take six percent. Secondly, problems also stemmed from the policies and practices of prior IPRA it from us. People in my area, “The union believes that leadership, which include inadequate resources. they don’t have wi-fi. When my substantial reductions in And lastly, total replacement of IPRA’s educated, trained and experienced kids need to do homework, they hours will result in a very professional investigators is not justified and would create even more problems. need a hotspot and they can go confusing schedule that will The job is challenging and demanding. We are responsible for tracking down to the library.” further discourage library The large crowd clapped patrons,” said AFSCME Council witnesses, viewing autopsies, gathering vast amounts of information, and critically and cheered her testimony. 31 Staff Representative Carla analyzing evidence. Replacing these experienced professionals would be extremely Savage shut down the Williams. “Our community will difficult, and training a whole new workforce impractical. Delays and bungled meeting at 8:30 p.m. despite continue to fight back against investigations would result, which would further undermine public confidence. the fact that there were still the library board’s cuts.” There are many thoughtful proposals that would improve police oversight and many community members Research shows that with additional questions and investment in libraries results increase accountability and transparency. We urge you to make sure that whatever objections. When asked if the in an increase in library visits reform framework is adopted, that it includes investigators as part of the solution. board would recommend an and circulation. In other words, Under strong, independent leadership, we have the experience and knowledge increase in the library tax levy if libraries are better funded, to ensure effective investigations and transparent process. to the City Council, Savage said more people use them. And that he would discuss the possibility benefits the whole community. 12 On the Move September-October 2016

Personal Support Program helps AFSCME members thrive

Union-based employee assistance program has helped tens of thousands since 1992

charge and counselors are “PSP helps keep AFSCME available Monday through members healthy so they can make Saturday, with early morning ife can be stressful in so many ways. The and evening hours available. challenges of balancing work, family and good decisions for themselves Referrals to outside providers other obligations can sometimes become and their families.” are made to enable individuals L to use their health care benefits overwhelming. There can be problems with whenever possible. teenage children. Or difficulties with drugs or “AFSCME members come alcohol. That’s why AFSCME established the to PSP with a range of concerns, Personal Support Program (PSP) to provide counseling and support as indi- are addressing issues that can including parent-child or marital viduals and families experience create personal or professional conflict, financial problems, grief assistance for members and their families. personal challenges and life difficulties. and loss, depression, anxiety, and changes. The earlier assistance “We assist members with work-related issues like inter- ✦ is provided, the easier it is to the many situations that may personal conflict or stress on the find solutions. impact them at work and job,” Bristor-Wilson said. home,” Bristor-Wilson said. “Everything we discuss is strictly confidential,” she PSP, a union-based employee could go when they need Trusted resource “PSP helps keep AFSCME assistance program, began someone to talk to about the members healthy so they emphasized. “We can’t providing services to AFSCME- difficult things they see and do Access to PSP services is an can make good decisions for discuss a member’s case with represented employees and every day. I wanted to be a part employee benefit that the themselves and their families.” anyone without a release of their dependents in August 1992. of that.” union seeks to incorporate into PSP provides free, short-term information from that member. “Before I came to PSP, I AFSCME is committed collective bargaining agree- counseling, as well as referral But sometimes we can help worked for DCFS for five years,” to helping its members realize ments whenever possible. The services for AFSCME- mediate a situation so that said Cheryl Bristor-Wilson, their full potential. PSP program has become a trusted represented employees and everyone benefits.” Interim Director of PSP and expands AFSCME’s tradition resource for AFSCME members their dependents who work In addition to counseling counselor for 23 years. “I won- of service to those it represents who work in extremely difficult for the City of Chicago, Cook services, PSP also offers consul- dered where state employees by providing professional and stressful environments and County, the State of Illinois, tations and educational semi- and several other employers nars to local unions and work throughout the state.* sites on a wide range of topics, including stress management, Help when you need it grief, critical incident debrief- ings, and time management. Face-to-face sessions with a “We’re here to serve professional clinician are AFSCME families,” Bristor- available at more than 40 Wilson said. “Everyone needs a locations statewide. Services little help sometimes and we are provided by PSP are free of here for you when you need us.”

“PSP helped me”

“I was dealt with in a completely professional and compassionate manner from my very first call to PSP.”

“PSP helped very much. It felt good to talk to someone who listens and understands and helps you to deal with problems and issues.”

“Setting up the appointment was done very promptly and professionally. The session was very helpful. I feel much * Other AFSCME locals eligible for PSP services: better than I did before I got here.” 347 Village of Round Lake Beach, 3905 Village of Fox Lake, 2891 Village of Homewood, 1473 City of Markham, 3780 Egyptian County Health Department, 2464 Jackson County, 2402 Randolph County, 726 City of Pana, and 3079 Sangamon County. September-October 2016 On the Move 13

RETIREE NOTES

these policies inevitably hurt “These types of policies, AFSCME retirees get out the vote working families, in particular often masquerading as ‘pro- public-sector employees and business,’ inevitably leave public retirees. pension systems vulnerable,” AFSCME Chapter 31 Kansas Governor Sam said Jeanne Cameron, Executive retirees wasted no time after Brownback imposed his own Director of the Illinois Alliance the statewide PEOPLE Confer- version of the “Turnaround for Retired Americans. ence concluded to start getting Agenda” in 2012, cutting taxes “Anti-worker politicians like union-endorsed candidates on the wealthy and large Brownback and Rauner craft elected to office. businesses. By the end of 2014, huge tax subsidies designed “This is a particularly Kansas had run up a deficit of to benefit only their wealthiest important election for retirees,” $300 million, triggering citizens. Their favorite way said David Spinner, president additional spending cuts. to pay for these is raiding of sub-chapter 87 (Decatur- To fill the gap caused by social service funds and Hillsboro). “Almost daily I am lavishing tax cuts on the rich, pension payments.” hearing from my members how Brownback took millions from In Illinois, Rauner’s their doctors and dentists are social service, public health, proposed budget for 2017 refusing to see them because transportation and youth asks the legislature to give him the state is failing to pay their education programs. the power to conduct “fund insurance claims. If we can help And this year, the Kansas sweeps,” which would allow just a few more union-friendly legislature sent a bill to Illinois to balance its budget legislators get elected this fall, Brownback that allowed him by skipping payments to our then we can get our state back U.S. Sen. with AFSCME retiree David Spinner and AFSCME-endorsed candidate for House District 95, Mike Mathis. to skip up to $100 million in pension systems—a practice on track and our members can payments to the Kansas Public that caused Illinois’ pension get the health care they earned.” “We can’t let money dom- ance then no action is required. Employee Retirement System shortfalls in the first place. Retirees from Carbondale inate this election. Billionaires However, new enrollees and to help balance the budget. to Chicago have already started like Rauner may be able to blan- those who wish to make changes knocking on doors, making ket the airwaves with negative should check their mailboxes phone calls and writing letters commercials and mud-slinging,” now for a benefit choice pack- to get the word out to other said Larry Brown, president of age from CMS. retirees about the importance Chapter 31, “but as we showed During the open-enrollment of this election. in the primaries, he’ll never period CMS will be hosting ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE match our ability to turn out seminars across the state. The FOR HEALTH/DENTAL INSURANCE NONPAYMENT volunteers and take our schedule will be included in your message straight to the voters.” open-enrollment information. SERS AND SURS RETIREES

To volunteer to help union-sup- Retirees can find detailed ported candidates, sign up at information about these plans HAS YOUR HEALTH OR DENTAL CARE PROVIDER… AFSCME31.org/ReadySetVote. as well as answers to frequently • Asked for payment upfront before asked questions at AFSCME31. rendering services? org/retirees/get-answers. Medicare Advantage • Directly billed you for the full cost of your services benefit choice period Kansas “Turnaround (not including co-pays or deductibles)? Agenda” threatens • Refused you service because “your insurance Medicare-eligible state and isn’t paying claims?” university retirees will have pensions an open enrollment period for • Turned you in to a collection agency? Medicare Advantage plans from Bruce Rauner likes to claim October 14 to November 15. that his “Turnaround Agenda” IF YOU ANSWERED YES TO ANY OF THESE If you do not wish to make would lead to heightened pros- QUESTIONS, HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO… Kathy Breeden, president of sub-chapter perity in Illinois. However, 77 (Galesburg), casts her vote at the changes to your health insur- AFSCME PEOPLE Conference. when actually put into practice 1. Talk to your doctor or dentist. Tell them your insurance is still good, but due to the state budget impasse they are withholding claim Celebrating Labor Day payments until the state has a budget and that Retirees celebrated the contributions of working men and women across Illinois on Labor Day. the health insurance company is liable for these payments, not you. 2. Call your insurance company. Explain what happened. They will likely tell you something similar to: “We can’t pay because the state isn’t paying us.” Take note of who you talked to and when. 3. Call CMS at 800-442-1300. Explain what happened. Be specific about the payment problem you are experiencing (collection notices, withholding care, etc.). Take note of who you talked to and when. 4. If CMS is unhelpful, contact AFSCME by email at [email protected]. 14 On the Move September-October 2016

ON THE LOCAL LEVEL

DeKalb County hundreds of constituent emails Newman, deputy director of employees fight for and calls to county officials. AFSCME Council 31, and the good jobs The county finally relented 50-person bargaining team and came back to the table with persisted and won raises More than 300 members of an agreement that the workers amounting to 10.75 percent AFSCME Local 3537 who work ratified. Winning a tough fight over the life of the contract, for DeKalb County officials, made the local stronger than plus a longevity increase for the health department and the ever, with members already employees at the top of the nursing home won a five-year planning a labor-management wage scale. contract with annual raises and meeting to protect and improve Ochalla has been with the prevented huge hikes in health service quality at the health public defenders’ office since care contributions. department and nursing home. 2003. He said many former Marla Cradduck is presi- clients will approach him and dent of the local and has worked ask if he remembers their case. as a certified nurse assistant at “It’s good to see them. the DeKalb County Rehab & “Fighting for your You hope that they take that Nursing Center for 27 years. co-workers makes opportunity [of a good outcome She said the county board was in court] to help themselves out attempting to abolish a cap for the struggles … and a lot of them do,” Ochalla employee contributions to their said. “That’s rewarding.” health insurance plans. you go through “Some of the cuts on the together during Big steps forward table could be devastating to for support staff at us as employees and to the your day-to-day Glenbard high schools county itself,” Cradduck said in mean so much testimony before the board. “So After years of receiving many of us are already making more. You know sub-standard wages for the near minimum wage and we someone has area, support staff who work have families to support.” in the offices and classrooms Cradduck’s testimo- got your back.” of Glenbard’s four public high ny emphasized that county schools won a 24 percent wage employees live in the community increase over the next five and help its economy thrive. Local 3537 members years. She also pointed out that became especially close when “We knew going into it that bargaining proposals on the they lost one of their own we needed something big,” said table unfairly discriminated earlier this summer. Kevin AFSCME Local 1970 President against the mostly female Reese, a bargaining committee Cynthia Infelise. “When you’re AFSCME members. member, passed away from not even making 10 dollars an “More than 80 percent cancer in August. hour, three percent is just of us are women,” Cradduck “Kevin was a great steward not enough.” said. “It feels like a terrible dou- for his co-workers,” said ble standard when the AFSCME Council 31 Staff Representative Sara Dorner. “Once we got county is asking female- AFSCME Local 3537 member Steve O’Bryan casts his vote in the DeKalb County dominated sectors to pay “Because of Kevin we brought contract ratification. going, our more for their health care important issues to the table than male-dominated sectors and made more gains for until the case is finished. members just like the sheriff’s department.” everyone in the local.” Cook County public “I enjoy the idea of finding realized how Cradduck’s powerful tes- The local is organizing a defenders win justice for those that are the memorial fund for Reese’s three important it is to timony helped push the board long fight least privileged or have the to do the right thing for most daughters, who also lost their least access to resources in our come together of its employees and tentative mother to cancer last year. community,” Ochalla said. “It’s agreements were reached in two “Fighting for your co-work- Assistant public defenders our job to make the court, the as one. We are like Kevin Ochalla, president of of the bargaining units. ers makes the struggles you go jury and the state take notice of going to keep But there was still more through together during your AFSCME Local 3315, represent the person standing in front of fighting to do for nursing home day-to-day mean so much more. indigent clients who are accused them and not just the crime of building on that.” workers. The county wanted You know someone has got of crimes in Cook County. which they are accused.” these low-wage workers to your back,” said Chuck Coulter, Since he’s on the AFSCME locals at Cook Secretaries, administrative accept a mere one percent wage a maintenance worker at the homicide task force, all of County conducted universal aides and teaching aides at increase while also cutting their nursing home. Ochalla’s clients are accused of negotiations that lasted more Glenbard North, South, East incentive program and the Led by Dorner, the murder. He represents them than three years and ultimately and West told their personal retention bonus for longer-term AFSCME Local 3537 bargaining from bond hearing to trial and resulted in a five-year contract stories to management at the employees. team included Cradduck, Steve with annual raises. Members very start of negotiations. The nursing home employ- O’Bryan, Dawn Lawton, Sherri “I enjoy finding of Local 3315 will benefit from “We laid it on the line. ees voted to reject the proposal Zabindin, Chuck Simpson, those hard-won gains. We’re working three jobs just and held member meetings Sarah Lief, Kevin Fricke, Jim justice for those “It was very frustrating,” to make ends meet,” Infelise to plan potential actions. Sedal, Kevin Reese, Deborah that have the Ochalla said. “There were a lot said. She has worked at the The members held a picket, Michaelowski, Deborah Wallace, of days when the county high school for nine years testified again at the board Lauren Saks and Michelle least access didn’t show up or seemed to and currently serves as the meeting and circulated a Gibson. be purposefully delaying substitute coordinator. “We heart-wrenching video making to resources.” the process.” are going through so much just their case, which inspired Chief negotiator Mike to survive.” September-October 2016 On the Move 15

contribution for the life of the contract. The bargaining team won 5.5 percent raises over three years, raised the wage floor for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) by $2 per hour and made positive changes in paid-leave policies. “I’m proud of our bargaining team,” Rensing said. “Our intent was a fair agreement and through due diligence at the table we ratified a fair contract.”

“This is a good contract. Bottom line: It protects our members.”

“Having worked at RCC for 21 years, this is a good contract,” Vickie Rednour said. Rednour is an LPN and recording secretary for the local. “Bottom line: It protects our members.” Rensing was joined on the Local 2402 bargaining team AFSCME Local 1970 members celebrate their new union contract with Glenbard Public High Schools. by local president Crystal Kempfer, a member of the janitorial staff; Lisa Carns, a Largely made up of new Goff. AFSCME Council 31 Staff tive, the bargaining committee to limit the financial impact certified nursing assistant and members, the board was very Representative David Marlow negotiated a three-year contract of a first-time employee physical therapy assistant; Julie receptive to the powerful led negotiations. settlement to protect members contribution to the health Clutts, a laundry supervisor; testimony employees offered. from steep increases. care plan by holding the cost and certified nursing assistant Negotiations began in March The committee was able to a $25 monthly premium Lucy Clayton. and concluded just before Randolph County local school began this year. wins fair contract Infelise said the local got a lot of support from the Randolph County was calling teachers, who wore green in for concessions at the negoti- solidarity during negotiations. ating table with AFSCME Local The local also made sure to have 2402 members who work at two representatives for each high the Randolph County Care school so that communications Center. But the employees stuck were constant, keeping members together and won a fair contract motivated and engaged. that raises wages and protects “Once we got going and health care. the building reps got out there, “The county told us they the rest of our members just were in deficit spending and realized how important it is to struggling with a decline in come together as one,” Infelise sales tax dollars,” said AFSCME said. “We’ve gone from just 50 Council 31 Staff Representative percent union membership to Patricia Rensing. “But we argued more than 75 percent in less that AFSCME members at the than a year, and we are going to care center actually generate keep building on that.” revenue by operating a first-class Infelise was joined on the laundry, which provides services bargaining team by local vice to the center residents and two president Verna Preisel, community hospitals.” secretary-treasurer Shaun Historically, Local 2402 Morrison, recording secretary bargained two-year agreements, Linda Bothen, Janet Berger, but when the county came to Justin Selby, Mari Jourdan, the table with changes to health Members of AFSCME Local 2402 at Randolph County won a fair contract that raised wages and protected their health care. Chris Gladish and Leo Aviles Val insurance as a primary objec- 16 On the Move September-October 2016 Anna Veterans’ Home Strike: 20 Years Later

“We had nothing to lose and everything to gain if we stood together. That’s why we won: We were 100 In a rural southern Illinois community in 1996, a small group of underpaid percent together.” direct care, dietary and housekeeping workers—mostly women—went on strike at a privately-run state veterans’ home. And they won. Now we celebrate the 20th anniversary of this determined AFSCME local’s hard-fought victory and their continued unity in the face of new challenges.

orkers at the Anna Veterans’ Home, the cried as I said goodbye to each of them and walked out FIGHTING FOR A BETTER FUTURE state’s first privately-operated veterans’ the door. But we didn’t really have a choice. We were home, formed a union with AFSCME striking for a better work environment for us and for Back at the table, the bargaining team won increased not long after the facility opened its them.” wages for every employee. Direct care staff who Wdoors. But their battle for their first union contract were making as little as $4.50 an hour received a pay was lengthy and hard-fought against ServiceMaster, IT TAKES A VILLAGE increase to $8.50 an hour. The employer instituted a a private vendor that was determined to turn a profit health care plan and paid 90 percent of the employees’ on the backs of aged veterans and those who cared “Most of our group was single mothers and young premiums. The workers also won paid time off and for them. people who didn’t know much about unions,” double time for holidays. After more than a year at the bargaining table, Brimm says. “But we showed everyone how the “We had nothing to lose and everything to management was still refusing to increase wages state was allowing this company to make money off of gain if we stood together,” Brimm said then. “That’s above the minimum required by law or provide any our backs while we served veterans. And winning why we won: We were 100 percent together.” health care or retirement benefits. And on the job, the public’s support—from workers, retirees, AFSCME members at the Anna Veterans’ Home workers felt demeaned and intimidated on a daily veterans, our families, everyone—is how we won weren’t done yet. After they won their strike, they basis without a union contract in place to secure the strike.” successfully won legislative approval to make their rights. One by one, community leaders and elected the home a state facility—and they became state So in August 1996, employees at the Anna officials came to the striking workers’ aid. As the employees. Today, they are more determined Veterans’ Home voted overwhelmingly to go out company brought in strikebreakers to staff the than ever to stand up for workers’ rights. on strike. facility, the union reached out and signed them up “We fought so hard to get where we’re at, and as as members. Most ended up joining the strike. The start of the strike was dramatic. Workers, union members we’re never going to be able to stop hands clasped and raised above their heads, walked As the facts of the workers’ treatment—low wages, fighting,” says Brimm. “Governor Rauner is trying to out of the facility and formed a picket line surrounded no benefits—became more widely known and public destroy our union and our rights and we have to take by supportive union members and retirees, support grew, then-governor Jim Edgar stepped in a stand. I know we’ll come out on top, but we have to community allies, veterans, and residents’ families. to urge the company to reach a fair settlement and be strong and stand together. end the strike. “The hard part was walking away from the men “United we stand, divided we fall. There’s never and women we cared for, who fought for our country After spending five weeks on the picket line, been a truer statement in life.” and our freedom,” strike participant and AFSCME fighting for their jobs, their rights and their dignity, Local 3280 President Bonnie Brimm says today. “I the AFSCME members won their strike.