NO. 187 • MARCH - APRIL 2019 ILLINOIS COUNCIL 31 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES - AFL-CIO MOVE RAUNER’S GONE— BARGAINING RESTARTS PAGE 5 PAID AFSCME U.S. Postage U.S. Non-Profit Org Council 31 Ave. 21st Floor 205 N. Michigan 205 N. Michigan , IL 60601 Chicago, AFSCME

BIG WINS IN FAIR TAX: LEGISLATIVE LOCAL ELECTIONS GET THE FACTS SESSION UNDERWAY PAGE 3 PAGES 8-9 PAGE 11 2 On the Move March-April 2019

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT On the MOVE AFSCME Illinois On the Move is published six times annually by Illinois Public Employees Council 31 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO. Send correspondence to: It’s finally spring [email protected] or: AFSCME, On the Move, 205 N. Michigan Ave., in Illinois 21st Floor, Chicago, IL 60601 Roberta Lynch, Executive Director Mike Newman, Deputy Director Our union grew stronger during the long, Nell McNamara, Editor hard winter of Rauner’s reign Tom Greensfelder, Designer COUNCIL 31 EXECUTIVE BOARD OFFICERS

BY ROBERTA Executive Director LYNCH Roberta Lynch dark ages of Bruce Rauner, State Sector Executive AFSCME’s grassroots lobbying Vice-President pring has been slow in coming this year. secured raises for these workers Ralph Portwood, Local 1866 As I write it is mid-April and snow is that averaged more than 10% Private Sector Executive over the past two years. But Vice-President WE’RE falling steadily outside my window. But they’re still not paid enough to Yolanda Woods, Local 2481 S sustain a family or mitigate the Local Government Executive BEGINNING slow though it may be, spring is coming. The need for a second job, so we’ve trees have been sprouting buds, patches of Vice-President ANEW renewed that effort in the cur- John Rayburn, Local 1215 green grass are appearing, and earlier this rent legislative session. And then there is the Secretary Dave Delrose, Local 1028 week it was so warm, folks were walking AFSCME Strong program around in t-shirts and shorts. which is coming into full Treasurer bloom—tens of thousands of David Morris, Local 805 It’s a potent reminder that Governor Pritzker has begun members signing the pledge slow though it may seem, we’re to set things right—restoring card to refuse to let Bruce BOARD MEMBERS beginning anew too. We’ve all employees to their proper Rauner and his uber-rich allies State Conference Board survived the harsh winter of steps as of April 1. destroy public employee unions Co-Chairs Bruce Rauner’s tenure—with Rauner’s gone, but the in our country. Gary Ciaccio, Local 29 its blizzard of attacks on public damage that his stormy term in The Illinois Policy Institute Kathy Lane, Local 448 employees and our union—and office has done remains—espe- (IPI) and the National Right- Tim Worker, Local 993 we’re coming back stronger cially the mountainous state to-Work Committee joined than ever. debt he piled up, leaving Illi- forces with Rauner to get the REGION I VICE-PRESIDENTS State employees are back at nois with a budgetary disaster. anti-union majority on the US Phil Cisneros, Local 3969 the bargaining table after three Fortunately, Governor Pritzker Supreme Court to overturn Safiya Felters, Local 2854 long years. Rauner walked out is sowing the seeds now that a decades-old precedent that Lloyd Marshall, Local 3477 on negotiations for a new con- can put our state back on solid ensured that all union-rep- Stephen Mittons, Local 2081 tract in January 2016 based on ground with his campaign for resented employees would Kobie Robinson, Local 3835 a false claim of impasse. When a fair tax that will ensure the contribute to the cost of repre- Crosby Smith, Local 2645 he tried to impose his harsh wealthy pay their share. sentation. terms—including astronomical That kind of tax reform The Rauner crew claimed REGION II VICE-PRESIDENTS increases in health care pre- is long overdue. If we can put that employees would rush to Terry Boone, Local 672 miums—union members sent the necessary constitutional leave their unions once they Garry Cacciapaglia, Local 1058 a powerful message by voting amendment on the ballot in no longer had to pay dues or a Carlene Erno, Local 2615 overwhelmingly to authorize a 2020 and gain voter approval, fair share fee. In fact, former Tom Opolony, Local 89 strike. Then AFSCME went to we will greatly increase the feepayers have signed up by court and secured an injunction odds of repairing ailing public the thousands, making clear Yurvette Simmons, Local 3237 that stopped him cold. pension systems and strength- that unions will continue to Miguel Vazquez, Local 3297 Even though the union ening struggling public ser- thrive. also won a court ruling that vices. See page 8-9 to get the Our battles are far from REGION III VICE-PRESIDENTS required negotiations to facts on the fair tax. over. The IPI continues to use Shaun Dawson, Local 2073 resume, Rauner refused to There are other changes FOIA regulations to gain access Lori Gladson, Local 51 come back to the bargain- coming too. AFSCME’s partic- to our personal information, Steve Howerter, Local 3585 ing table. When JB Pritzker ipation in state legislative and invade our privacy and spread Melanie Hoyle, Local 2600 became governor, he pledged local government elections their falsehoods. The wealthy Matt Lukow, Local 1964 that he would renew negoti- across the state helped bring elite in Illinois are renewing Trudy Williams, Local 3433 ations—and that’s just what fresh voices to the General their efforts to slash or even he’s done. Now the AFSCME Assembly and to city councils eliminate public employee pen- REGION IV VICE-PRESIDENTS Bargaining Committee is hard in Chicago, Springfield, Peoria sions. The forces of privatiza- Jerry Grammer, Local 1175 at work on reaching a fair set- and more. These new elected tion are regrouping and looking Tad Hawk, Local 1805 tlement that rejects Rauner’s officials are more willing to for more public services to Chris Milton, Local 799 attempts to subvert job rights, stand up to all the powers-that- commandeer. Cary Quick, Local 141 advance privatization and be, to speak out for working We know they’ll keep on weaken our union. families, and to oppose efforts attacking and there will be TRUSTEES State employees have also to privatize public services or more hard times to come. But Tom Brown, Local 3654 had to struggle through four undermine union rights. we’ve shown we can survive Jeffrey Reighter, II, Local 2856 years without their scheduled In the General Assembly and even thrive in the harshest Tamara Rietman, Local 3693 step increases after Raun- we’ve been laboring to raise of weathers. For now, let’s wel- er froze steps in July 2015. the pay of low-wage frontline come all the signs of spring’s RETIREE CHAPTER 31 AFSCME won that battle in workers in community dis- renewal and take pride in the REPRESENTATIVE court too, but again Rauner ability agencies which depend more powerful union that Larry Brown failed to comply. And again, on state funding. Even in the we’ve become. March-April 2019 On the Move 3

AFSCME-backed candidates prevail in local elections We’re helping shape local governments for the better

hold them accountable,” Coun- cil 31 Director of Intergovern- andidates who garnered AFSCME mental Affairs Adrienne Alex- backing based on their pledges to stand ander said. “We need to ensure with working families won big in local that the jobs that AFSCME C members perform and the ser- government elections across the state on April 2. vices we provide are protected.” Chicago City three too-close-to-call races were called in the AFSCME can- Making political Council wins didates’ favor. gains across tip scales The Progressive Caucus in the City Council has stood with the state In Chicago, AFSCME helped union members to block pri- AFSCME-backed candidates elect candidates who are vatization and prevent service also fared well in cities like committed to shaping a more cuts. Now that caucus will be Springfield and Peoria. Members from Locals 2040, 2025, 46, 2615 and Chapter 31 Retirees gathered to get out progressive, pro-worker city larger and can do even more to the vote for Debra Faralli, East Moline School Board candidate. “Where we coordinated council. In the first and second promote equality and economic our work and resources with rounds of city elections, some progress for all. in the grassroots coalition Alderman . local unions, and where 38 candidates endorsed by the “The support of AFSCME that helped deliver the win,” “Together we will continue to AFSCME members were most union won their seats after Council 31 played a huge part said newly-elected 40th Ward build community and improve engaged, that’s where we were our city!” most successful,” Council 31 “AFSCME provided tremen- Political Action Director Jason dous support, enabling us to Kay said. “For example, in Peo- run a positive, issues-focused ria, AFSCME-endorsed candi- campaign centered around bold date Rita Ali was the number AFSCME Local 805 ideas and independent leader- one vote-getter elected to the ship,” said newly-elected 47th city council.” member Erin Conley Ward Alderman . In Springfield, the city “We wouldn’t be where we are council now tilts more favor- wins Springfield today without them.” ably toward working people. “Thanks to the support AFSCME Local 805 mem- of the sisters and brothers of ber and steward Erin Conley City Council seat AFSCME, I am alderman of the won in the 8th Ward (side- 20th Ward,” said newly-elected bar), 6th Ward incumbent What inspired you to run for office as a union member? Alderman Jeanette Taylor. Kristin DiCenso retained her I’ve always been a solution-driven person. I love Springfield. I love living “Our journey has just started. seat, and Willie “Shawn” Greg- here. I wanted to be part of making this a stronger community. We will model what community ory won by one single vote in and labor relationships should the 2nd Ward (so close there I’m a union steward. It’s very important to me to ensure that all workers’ and can look like.” may be a recount). rights are respected. I know this is particularly vital in Springfield, where union AFSCME made no “AFSCME’s efforts helped workers are an important part of our economy. Union workers have decent wages and benefits, making our community a better, healthier place to live. How did AFSCME’s support help your campaign? I’ve walked for so many candidates as an AFSCME member so I know what we can do. But when AFSCME members turned out for me and my race, it blew my mind. We had volunteers helping us for a couple weeks up to the election and on Election Day. My union brothers and sisters were a base of support that I knew I could rely on and it meant so much to me. Campaigning can be tough. It’s a lot of work and I got very tired. To know that I had AFSCME backing me, that meant the world. What do you hope to accomplish on the city council? Springfield has wonderful, unique neighborhoods. But we have seen a lot of contracting out of basic city functions like street and sidewalk safety and repair, and the service isn’t so good. These services should be provided by the city and by city workers. I want to improve our neighborhoods so peo- ple want to live in Springfield. AFSCME Local 3738 Recording Secretary Leslie Thomas and President Nicole Cunningham volunteered in Springfield on Election Day. How has being a union member impacted your life? endorsement in the Chicago make these wins possible,” I was a single mom for a long time without any child support. Being a union mayor’s race. In a run-off Council 31 Legislative Affairs member meant I got regular raises, my children had health care and I had a election, Specialist Dominic Watson sense of security and support. And after more than 20 years with the state defeated Cook County Presi- said. “Conley won in a con- I’ve worked up to the point where my kids can go to college and I can con- dent Toni Preckwinkle. Both servative district and Gregory candidates had expressed ousted a Raunerite incumbent tinue to help them as make their way in the world. respect for public employees because we knocked on doors, I can’t put a price tag on what the union has done for me. It has com- and pledged support in union made calls and educated our pletely changed what I thought my life would be and I will always be grate- questionnaires. members. We helped push ful. That’s why I became a union steward. This union gives so much to me “The aldermanic races were these candidates over the finish and I want to give back to others. critical because no matter who line and change the dynamic of the mayor is, we always need to our city council.” 4 On the Move March-April 2019

DSPs continue their fight for living wages, quality care Building on momentum, AFSCME members fight for more progress

progress, the average starting Gabel). and developmental disabilities wage for DSPs is still just $10.49 As deliberations over the live in community residential or many years, AFSCME members who per hour—below the federal pov- state’s FY 20 budget get under- settings and rely on DSPs to care for individuals with developmental erty level for a family of four. way, these bills are an import- enhance their quality of life. and intellectual disabilities in DSPs are now pushing for ant way to educate lawmakers From daily personal care F another increase from the state on the issue and bring it to the (eating, grooming, and dress- community agencies have organized and in the 2019 legislative session. forefront in the budget talks. ing) to teaching essential lobbied to win funding from the state for pay Two AFSCME-backed bills skills and attending to com- call for increases that will ramp plex medical needs—often raises. up the starting wage to at least A workforce working with individuals with $15 per hour by 2022. The crisis challenging and sometimes Their efforts have borne fruit. won funding earmarked for bills are SB 1148 (sponsored by injurious behaviors—the Over the last two years, Direct wage increases totaling $1.25 Sen. Heather Steans) and HB In Illinois, more than 27,000 work of DSPs can be physi- Support Personnel (DSPs) have per hour. While this is important 2148 (sponsored by Rep. Robyn individuals with intellectual cally demanding and emotion- ally draining. Very low wages for such difficult work results in high employee turnover, which in PORTRAITS OF SERVICE turn negatively impacts the quality of services provided. Because of rising wages in competing sectors, community disability agencies are experi- encing staff vacancy rates of up Aaron Dunlap to 49 percent despite strenuous efforts to recruit new workers. AFSCME Local 3348 Providers are relying more on overtime to cover shifts, “We are their family,” Local 3348 Vice President Aaron Dunlap, a DSP leading to staff burnout and at Pinnacle Opportunity, said of the agency’s clients. “We are there driving up costs. In some 24/7 when no one else is to provide care, love and stability.” cases, shifts can’t be covered, Dunlap worries that the low pay will continue to hurt the putting individuals with dis- individuals he serves as skilled staff seek better paying work abilities at risk. elsewhere. He also worries about his own family’s needs. He works a second job to provide for them. “Bills in a household don’t stop and neither do I,” he said. “A Educating raise will allow me to take some days off to spend with my family who mean the world to me.” lawmakers Dozens of local DSP union lead- ers gathered in regional train- ings across the state in March Rhoda Moseley to develop plans for workplace organizing and to learn how to AFSCME Local 3017 educate their legislators. “It makes a big difference for our clients to have someone AFSCME members are constant in their life,” said Local 3017 President Rhoda Moseley, a part of a broader coalition with DSP at EP!C in Peoria. employers and the families “With more staff we could do more with the clients, expose of people receiving services. them to more. When we have enough staff, we can take the time Together, the coalition success- to laugh and talk with the clients and give them the attention they fully educated members of the need,” she said. Illinois General Assembly over “But people are so worried about paying bills, getting gas, the last two years. But after the affording child care. They have to work another job or work overtime. 2018 election, there are a lot of So when a job opens up that pays more and allows more time at home, new faces in Springfield. of course they’re going to take it. That’s why there’s a turnover crisis.” AFSCME members will meet with their legislators in their district offices during the April spring break. And AFSCME is hosting a DSP Lobby Day in Springfield on Karen Johnson May 1, when legislators will AFSCME Local 2871 meet with service providers as a group and one-on-one to “Staff shortages and a revolving door of staff mean that our clients learn about the critical need for aren’t getting the care that they deserve,” said Local 2871 President adequate funding. Karen Johnson, a DSP at Clearbrook whose job entails bringing “DSPs are incredibly dedi- clients into the community to learn job skills. cated to the work they do and “DSPs are worn out from working so many hours. I find myself the well-being of the people almost falling asleep at the wheel on my way home from double they serve,” Lynch said. “Their shifts,” she said. fight is not only for their own Johnson’s goal is to spend more time with her 14-year-old livelihoods. They always keep daughter. She’s an excellent student but Johnson can’t be home to the health and safety of the help with homework or attend school functions: “A raise would allow individuals in their care at the me to spend more time at home and focus on my daughter more.” forefront of their minds. They won’t quit fighting for them.” March-April 2019 On the Move 5

State contract negotiations resume After more than three years, back at the bargaining table

“This is what hard work and dedication gets you.”

proposals to eliminate protec- with the Pritzker Administra- tions against privatization, tion demonstrating a willing- expand mandatory overtime, ness to back away from some reduce overtime pay, limit of Rauner’s most onerous recall and bumping rights, proposals. expand the use of personal ser- But the real challenge will vice contracts, weaken senior- come when the parties tackle ity rights, and much more. economic issues: State employ- “It feels strange because ees have gone four years with- we’re picking up where we left out a pay raise and want to see off but in a completely differ- real gains, but the state is in ent atmosphere,” Crisman said. dire fiscal straits and manage- “It’s a complete 180 as far as ment is sure to resist any pro- the feeling in the room.” posals that add to the already “It’s astonishing,” Clem- mountainous debt. ons agreed. “We were able to The AFSCME Bargaining accomplish more in one day Committee is not deterred with the Pritzker Administra- by such challenges. Bargain- tion than we did in four years ing sessions are scheduled break in contract negotiations; with the previous administra- through the end of May, and and negotiations have never tion. Morale is great.” the committee members are egotiations for a state contract continued from one governor As is normally the case, prepared to go into the summer for more than 30,000 AFSCME- to another. negotiations are first focusing months if needed to reach a fair represented employees in state Both union and man- on non-economic issues. The settlement. N agement proposals that were initial bargaining sessions “If state employees were government finally resumed on March 25. on the table in 2016 are the focused on improving working able to survive the Rauner The AFSCME Bargaining Committee, comprised subject of the renewed nego- conditions and protecting job Administration,” Clemons said, of more than 200 members elected by their tiations, including Rauner’s rights got off to a solid start, “we can do anything.” co-workers and representing every local union in state government, was at the ready.

It was the first bargaining on a strike and we won every Moving forward on steps session since January 2016 single court battle,” Raickett When Bruce Rauner froze state employee step increases as of July 1, 2015, when former governor Bruce said. “He campaigned on the AFSCME filed charges against him at the Illinois Labor Relations Board and Rauner made the false claim idea of destroying us, and he eventually won a court ruling that said the freeze was illegal and steps must be of “impasse” and broke off was not successful. Everything restored. negotiations. we’ve done to get us to this Gov. Pritzker announced on his first full day in office that he would comply AFSCME took Rauner to point I attribute to our mem- with that ruling and act to end Bruce Rauner’s illegal four-year freeze by placing court and won a ruling that no bers being active and engaged.” employees on the appropriate step going forward. impasse exists, but he would “This is what hard work On April 1, Janel L. Forde, the acting director of the Department of Central never return to the bargaining and dedication gets you,” Local Management Services (CMS), sent a memo to all affected state bargaining unit table. When Governor Pritz- 472 President Nick Crisman employees reaffirming that commitment. ker took office, he made clear said, another bargaining com- “Upon taking office in January, Governor that he was prepared to restart mittee member. “Making the Pritzker made clear it was a top priority of his negotiations. phone calls, campaigning, mak- Administration to ensure employees received ing our voices heard. In the end past due step increases and set a goal that if we’re all in it, then we’re loud all affected employees would receive such A long road and they have to listen.” increases effective April 1, 2019,” the memo “The AFSCME Bargaining back to the table stated. “Through all our coordinated efforts, Committee remained steadfast we are on target to have impacted employees “Our union played a huge role in its determination to secure placed on the appropriate step.” in this,” Local 2258 President a fair settlement throughout The memo also confirmed that eligi- Charlene Raickett said, a mem- the challenges of the Rauner ble employees who were supposed to have ber of the bargaining team. “We years,” said AFSCME Council received longevity pay increases after July 1, knew going in with the Rauner 31 Executive Director and chief 2015 will also see their pay adjusted. administration that we were negotiator Roberta Lynch. “We CMS said all adjustments would be going to have an uphill battle will carry that commitment reflected in the April 1-16 pay period and issued and we had to get the troops forward in these negotiations.” Local 1866 member Ebony Chambers and at the end of April (as On the Move went to out to pound the pavement.” Vice President Eugene Washington. press). “We couldn’t lay down and Local 472 President Nick Crisman said of his local’s reaction to the news: take what he was willing to give Making a “Some were cautious, and I understand their reservations. But when the CMS us,” said bargaining committee new deal memo came out saying we’re going to see it, everybody was happy. Hopefully it member and Local 124 President helps with people staying here because we’ve lost a ton of correctional officers Byron Clemons. “We showed we The current situation is who didn’t get the pay they signed up for.” weren’t scared to strike, even unprecedented. AFSCME is continuing to press for a timetable for payment of back wages though we didn’t want to.” No governor has ever owed since Rauner’s illegal step freeze began. “We had 80 percent of the declared impasse; there has membership willing to walk out never been such an extended 6 On the Move March-April 2019

Solidarity prevails in Rockford privatization fight School bus drivers convince district to reverse course

Standing up for “I know how important bidding process, AFSCME ockford public school bus drivers of it is to have drivers who care members built support in the what’s right about safety and take pride in community, getting favorable AFSCME Local 1275 banded together their jobs because I hear from news coverage of their plight. to oppose District 205’s plan to The news is good for both driv- parents all the time who thank The bus drivers started a R ers and students. us for getting their kids safely petition gathering hundreds outsource bus services to a private, for-profit The experience of other corporation—and they prevailed. school districts shows that when bus services are privat- After a lengthy bid process you win. Because we stuck ized, corporations cut corners “How does a private school bus and with a public hearing together as a union our dreams to maximize profit, putting the company make a profit? The only looming on April 9, the dis- are coming true. safety of children at risk, taking trict informed AFSCME on “It was all about team- accountability out of the hands way is by squeezing workers and March 27 that no bids would be work,” Barnett said. “Making of residents, and undermining shortchanging kids’ safety.” accepted and that the district the phone calls, sending the wages and benefits for drivers would not pursue outsourcing emails, showing up to the who live in the community. for the upcoming school year. board meetings. It also has According to a two-de- “We’re fighters, that’s why to do with history. We went cade long independent study, to school,” Darrell Freeman told of signatures and sent more we prevailed,” said Local 1275 on strike last year and I think the total cost for taxpayers is the board. than 200 emails to the eight President Stacy Owens. “It took management remembers $223,900 higher per year when “A for-profit company board members considering the a lot of work. You can’t just sit that. Sticking together is a typical school district privat- would be bad for drivers, our decision. back, or you’ll watch it all go what has always made the izes bus services. families and all the families we right by you.” difference.” Offering public testimony serve. Think about it—how “Amazing. That’s the only “We know that we have to backed by a crowd of support- does a private school bus com- Looking ahead word I have for it,” said Local be one, we have to be a team,” ers, AFSCME members urged pany make a profit? The only Despite hearing the powerful 1275 Executive Board member Owens agreed. “We have to the school board at its meeting way is by squeezing workers testimony of the bus drivers’ Catina Barnett. “You fight, and come together, stick together on Feb. 26 to put student safety and shortchanging kids’ safety.” solid case against privatiza- you fight, and all of a sudden and fight together.” first and say no to outsourcing. Throughout the RFP and tion, the school board pressed forward with its plans to out- source. However, in a stunning reverse-course, the district con- tacted AFSCME on March 28 to notify the union that the bid “ We know that process had been cancelled—at least for the upcoming 2019- 2020 school year. we have to be President Owens said that members feel relieved after one, we have getting through this latest fight together. “It was really tough being to be a team.” afraid of losing our jobs. We need our jobs. This is how we support our families,” Owens said. “But now without the threat of outsourcing hanging over our heads, we can feel bet- ter going into negotiations.” “This is a huge victory, but the fight isn’t over,” AFSCME Council 31 Regional Director Doug Woodson said. “The district cancelled their plans for this school year, but as we know from experience they will likely try again. We need to stay vigilant and ready for the chal- lenges ahead. Owens and Barnett said their local is ready to stand strong at the bargaining table during upcoming negotiations and beyond. And after driv- ing Rockford’s schoolchildren for more than 20 years each, both Owens and Barnett are ready with a smile every school morning and at the end of each day. “I love seeing their faces every day,” Barnett said. “I know that if someone is strug- gling you can brighten them up by saying something positive to them on the way home. That means the world.” March-April 2019 On the Move 7

Union prevails in DOC, DJJ class action grievance Arbitrator orders health and safety protections for AFSCME members

the prison system and, in some FSCME members in the Department instances, assaults committed against them. “The case was built systematically­ of Corrections and the Department “The danger that manage- with grievances­ across the state.” of Juvenile Justice successfully used ment has ignored is outland- A ish,” said Local 416 Vice Presi- their union contract to enforce health and dent Ashley Landrus, a juvenile safety standards. justice specialist at Illinois of assault so there would be “This whole process Youth Center in St. Charles fewer. They wanted to present has taken such a long time,” To address the growing inci- staff assaults to inadequate who testified in the hearings. a false reality that things aren’t Landrus said. “We’ve held dence of assaults on employees equipment and training. “The issues that the arbi- that bad. But we had the bodies press conferences, issued in DOC and DJJ facilities, “All these grievances we’ve trator heard, the stories from in front of them to testify to reports, rallied at our work- AFSCME Council 31 filed a been writing and labor-man- staff, were the very evidence the conditions employees are places and lobbied legislators. class-action grievance against agement meetings we’ve been we’ve brought to management. exposed to on a daily basis, and I’m ecstatic that something both departments that having, they all came together They acknowledge it but they the arbitrator saw the truth.” positive has come out of all detailed the scope and extent in this case,” Portwood said. didn’t care to have a hand in our hard work.” of assaults on employees. The “Now they have to listen to our fixing it.” “Our success in this case is union argued that the employ- concerns and address them.” “Working in the environ- Change for going to change the way busi- ers’ responses have been inad- “There’s a feeling of opti- ment that we do you have to the better ness is conducted in the depart- equate according to both the mism,” Local 2073 President expect an element of violence, ments,” Portwood said, “and it union contract and state OSHA Shaun Dawson said. “Finally but you shouldn’t get used The arbitrator’s decision man- shows our younger members law. having an outside entity say to it and that’s what we’ve dated that the departments why we do what we do as a On March 25, Arbitrator there is a problem justifies the had to do,” said Dawson. “It must work with union repre- union.” Terry Bethel issued a ruling granting the union’s grievance and affirming the gravity of the situation. In his decision, Arbitrator Bethel indicated that both DOC and DJJ have failed in meeting the state’s responsibility to “provide a safe environment in its corrections facilities and youth centers.” He said his finding was based on “the evi- dence and testimony presented at the hearing, including the large number of assaults, the lack of thorough training, the failure to address certain condi- tions, and the testimony of the employees who were assaulted.” “My decision,” he said, “is simply that the departments have not acted to the extent feasible to prevent injury to their security staffs.” The arbitrator remanded the case to the parties to shape a remedy within the next 120 days that improves safety in DOC and DJJ facilities, and he retained jurisdiction over the case to ensure that a satisfactory plan of action is developed.

Long time coming The decision is “long overdue” said AFSCME Local 1866 Presi- dent Ralph Portwood. issues we’ve been bringing up doesn’t have the shock value sentatives to find solutions to “One of our members “This has been ongoing for more than four years. Our it did. We need to get back the problems plaguing both suffers terribly from PTSD and now we have documen- safety concerns aren’t a ran- to ‘oh my god, I can’t believe staff and inmates. from being severely beaten, tation to back up what we’ve dom complaint. There is a true that happened.’” “Moving forward we’re and she cried when she heard been saying all along. And it and legitimate problem.” During the arbitration, going to be able to create a dia- the news,” Dawson said. “The has teeth to it. The arbitrator DJJ and DOC blamed problems logue, hearing from both sides,” level of importance that still has jurisdiction so we can on staff instead of taking any Portwood said. this arbitration has to our bring it back to him if they’re Bearing witness ownership of the situation. “For the first time in a members, the ones that have not adhering to the decision.” Over eight days of hearings, the “It was tough to sit long time, we feel like things been hurt and seen people The case was built system- union’s claims were powerfully through that,” Dawson said. are going to get better,” Daw- they work with every day get atically with dozens of griev- bolstered by AFSCME members “They tried to decrease the son said. “Now management hurt, it’s groundbreaking. We ances at facilities across the who came from across the state numbers when they reported must work with us to find the received vindication in this state involving everything from to describe growing dangers in them and modify the definition solutions.” arbitration.” That’s why opinion polls repeatedly find widespread public support for the fair tax: 64% in a recent survey by Think Big Illi- nois, and more than 70% in polls from the Paul Simon Institute.

But voters can’t have a say until a three-fifths supermajority of the state Senate and House approve a resolution to put the fair tax constitutional amendment on the ballot. The ballot measure then needs support from 60% of voters at the next statewide election, likely in November 2020. Big-money interests opposed The main forces organized against the fair tax are big business and corporate CEOs—which launched a dark-money front group called Ideas Illinois to air TV ads debunked as “false” by Politifact—and the anti-union Illinois Policy Institute funded by Bruce Rauner and the Koch Brothers.

This shouldn’t surprise union members. The same big-money forces have long pushed to cut pensions, lay off workers, wipe out collective bargaining and repeal the state constitution’s pension protection clause. ILLINOIS “Why would any of us ever rely on the Illinois Policy Institute, with its well-documented propensity for distortions and dou- ble-talk, to get the real facts about anything?” Lynch asked. “The IPI has the same agenda it has always had, consolidating NEEDS FAIR the wealth and power of the already super-rich.” The opposition’s criticisms fall flat. While they claim that wealthy people and businesses would flee if asked to pay marginally higher taxes, studies have shown no correlation TAX REFORM between tax rates and migration patterns. In fact, the state with the most millionaires, California, also has the highest top Wasting no time in taking up a cause AFSCME has long advocated tax rate—more than 12%, far higher than the fair tax plan for for, and which was a centerpiece of his campaign, new governor Illinois. JB Pritzker has proposed fair tax reform. The plan would cut taxes They claim that Illinois would raise taxes on the middle class, but that’s wrong, too. Pritzker’s fair tax plan would maintain for working people while making wealthy folks finally pay their or cut taxes for some 97% of taxpayers, including everyone share—raising desperately needed new revenues in the process. making less than $250,000 a year. And whereas under current law the legislature must raise taxes on everyone or no one at all, the fair tax will offer the option of holding the middle class harmless while targeting increases at the top, among those Gov. Pritzker’s proposal would raise taxes only on income over who can most afford to pay. Current system is unfair, $250,000 a year. That’s just 3% of Illinois taxpayers. And even inadequate their rates would remain lower than in most surrounding states. Finally, some wrongly believe that amending the constitution to allow a fair tax would also open the door to repealing the The state’s current tax structure is inadequate because it Everyone else—the 97% making less than a quarter-million pension clause. That’s not the case, as the two separate issues doesn’t raise enough revenue, leaving state government with dollars—would pay the same or less than they’re paying now. would each require a separate amendment with separate a $3.2 billion budget shortfall in the current year alone, not to In addition, the plan would create a new child tax credit to votes in the General Assembly. There’s strong support for the mention more than $8 billion in unpaid bills and $134 billion benefit families and double the property tax credit to help fair tax but little if any for changing the pension clause. in long term pension debt. As a result, critical needs like state homeowners. and local government services, schools and universities, and In truth, the fair tax is the single most important step the state In all, this fair tax plan would raise $3.4 billion a year, more infrastructure such as roads and bridges are all underfunded. could take to rebuild the middle class. “What’s driving [working than 90% of it from millionaires. The revenues could be used families] away is not higher income taxes,” the Chicago Sun- The current tax structure is also unfair, because the revenue to fund schools, support public services, improve infrastructure Times editorial board wrote, “but poorly funded public schools, it raises comes disproportionately from working people, while and pay the state’s bills. inconsistently funded public universities, low wages and a letting rich folks off easy. Right now, the state Constitution “Under Governor Pritzker’s fair tax plan, millionaires would pay state financial crisis that discourages job-creating businesses mandates that everyone from a billionaire to a health care aide more while working people pay the same or even less,” Coun- from setting up shop or expanding.” pay the same income tax rate. cil 31 Executive Director Roberta Lynch said. “Public services When you add in sales and property taxes, working people and schools would get needed reinvestment and the state wind up paying almost twice as much of their income in taxes could pay its bills. Raising the necessary revenue from those (14.4%) as the state’s wealthiest people (7.4%). That’s why who can afford to pay a little more—while holding the line on the National Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy every taxes for 97 percent of filers—is the fair tax reform that’s long TELL LAWMAKERS: year ranks Illinois among its “Terrible 10” states with the most overdue in Illinois.” SUPPORT THE FAIR TAX regressive taxes. Strong support for fair tax AFSCME, the Illinois AFL-CIO and labor Pritzker: 97% unions statewide have made passage of A study by the University of Illinois found that moving to a fair the fair tax our #1 goal. You can call your pay same or less tax structure “could narrow Illinois’ growing income disparity, legislator to voice your support for the fair cut property—as well as income—tax bills and deliver billions A fair tax with higher rates for people with higher incomes and of dollars in extra annual revenue to combat state deficits and tax by calling AFSCME’s legislative hotline lower rates for people with lower incomes is the approach underfunded schools and infrastructure,” the Associated Press at 844-236-5649. used by most other states—more than 30 of them, including reported. four of Illinois’s five neighbors—and the federal government. That’s why opinion polls repeatedly find widespread public support for the fair tax: 64% in a recent survey by Think Big Illi- nois, and more than 70% in polls from the Paul Simon Institute.

But voters can’t have a say until a three-fifths supermajority of the state Senate and House approve a resolution to put FAIR TAX FACTS the fair tax constitutional amendment on the ballot. The ballot measure then needs support from 60% of voters at the next statewide election, likely in November 2020. Will I pay more? No. Big-money interests opposed The main forces organized against the fair tax are big business Will have the same and corporate CEOs—which launched a dark-money front group called Ideas Illinois to air TV ads debunked as “false” by or lower tax bill. Politifact—and the anti-union Illinois Policy Institute funded by Bruce Rauner and the Koch Brothers.

This shouldn’t surprise union members. The same big-money 97.3% forces have long pushed to cut pensions, lay off workers, wipe Who make more than out collective bargaining and repeal the state constitution’s pension protection clause. $250,000 per year will “Why would any of us ever rely on the Illinois Policy Institute, pay more. with its well-documented propensity for distortions and dou- ble-talk, to get the real facts about anything?” Lynch asked. 2.7% “The IPI has the same agenda it has always had, consolidating the wealth and power of the already super-rich.” The opposition’s criticisms fall flat. While they claim that Why do we need it? wealthy people and businesses would flee if asked to pay marginally higher taxes, studies have shown no correlation between tax rates and migration patterns. In fact, the state Illinois is in a deep Illinois’ tax system is upside with the most millionaires, California, also has the highest top fiscal hole. down. The richest pay a tax rate—more than 12%, far higher than the fair tax plan for Illinois. smaller proportion of their income than the poorest. They claim that Illinois would raise taxes on the middle class, BILLION but that’s wrong, too. Pritzker’s fair tax plan would maintain in back due bills. or cut taxes for some 97% of taxpayers, including everyone $ making less than $250,000 a year. And whereas under current 8 law the legislature must raise taxes on everyone or no one at all, the fair tax will offer the option of holding the middle class BILLION harmless while targeting increases at the top, among those budget shortfall who can most afford to pay. $ in FY2019. Finally, some wrongly believe that amending the constitution 2-3 to allow a fair tax would also open the door to repealing the Bond ratings remain at pension clause. That’s not the case, as the two separate issues record lows despite the would each require a separate amendment with separate 14.4% 7.4% The percentage of The percentage of votes in the General Assembly. There’s strong support for the 2017 tax increase. their income the their income the fair tax but little if any for changing the pension clause. poorest pay in taxes. richest pay in taxes. In truth, the fair tax is the single most important step the state could take to rebuild the middle class. “What’s driving [working families] away is not higher income taxes,” the Chicago Sun- Times editorial board wrote, “but poorly funded public schools, inconsistently funded public universities, low wages and a state financial crisis that discourages job-creating businesses Can it be done? Yes! from setting up shop or expanding.” The public supports it.

FAVOR/ TELL LAWMAKERS: STRONGLY SUPPORT THE FAIR TAX FAVOR AFSCME, the Illinois AFL-CIO and labor 71% unions statewide have made passage of OPPOSE/ the fair tax our #1 goal. You can call your legislator to voice your support for the fair STRONGLY tax by calling AFSCME’s legislative hotline OPPOSE at 844-236-5649. 24% 10 On the Move March-April 2019

Making AFSCME Strong a priority

FSCME Local 29 members at the Shapiro Developmental Center in A Kankakee are proud to be AFSCME Strong. Employees at the state residential and training center for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities are tight-knit with a long history of being 100% Union.

“We’ve always been well orga- nized, it goes back a long way,” said Local President Gary Ciac- “Our strength is cio, a mental health technician in numbers and who has worked at the center for 38 years. “Our leaders have in unity.” always stressed internal orga- nizing because we know that the more organized we are, the if there are a lot of people who more successful we are.” choose not to be members,” AFSCME Local 29 members marched to the Capitol at the Back-Pay Lobby Day in Springfield on May 10, 2018. The anti-worker forces Ciaccio said. behind the recent Supreme Ciaccio said that unity would be drop-off after Janus all these things guaranteed that organize private sector employ- Court case Janus v. AFSCME became even more critical to but there hasn’t been.” members understood the impor- ees in the area who are now Council 31 know that unity the local after the Supreme That’s because their work tance of us standing together.” AFSCME members at KCTC, ensures success at the bargain- Court ruled against working began even before that 2018 While the local always has Good Shepherd and Pinnacle ing table too. That’s why they people in June. decision. near 100 percent membership, group homes. set out to eliminate fair share “When fair share ended, we “We’ve been under attack that doesn’t mean they sit back Ciaccio encourages his fel- fees—they believed it would made we sure talked to every since Rauner was elected, and and relax, Ciaccio said. They low AFSCME locals to keep up weaken and even destroy union person one-to-one about the that has actually helped us make sure to talk to every new the fight and never quit work- solidarity. importance of everyone being rally people around our union,” hire and explain the benefits of ing for your local to be 100% “Employers always look at a member to keep us strong,” Ciaccio said. “We haven’t had a being a union member. Union: “Our strength is in your numbers and they know he said. “We were worried there contract, our steps were frozen, Local 29 has also helped numbers and in unity.”

is covered by AFSCME members’ health insurance plans. PSP Clinical Director Cheryl PSP: Help when Bristor-Wilson encourages AFSCME members who are seeking help for themselves or you need it a loved one to reach out to PSP, but also to seek support from family, friends and co-workers. Worried? Overwhelmed? “Don’t leave a problem unaddressed,” Bristor-Wilson FSCME Council 31’s Personal Support warns. “It can impact your PSP Can Help! Program (PSP) has helped tens of work and put your job at risk. thousands of AFSCME members and their There is help for you at PSP.” AFSCME’S Personal Support Progam A Face-to-face sessions with a (PSP) offers free, professional, dependents thrive since it was created in 1992. professional clinician are avail- able at more than 40 locations confidential assistance to The union-based employee Chicago, Cook County, the State statewide. Services provided by represented employees and their assistance program expands of Illinois, and several other PSP are free of charge and coun- AFSCME’s tradition of service employers throughout the state.* selors have flexible availability. covered dependents. to those it represents by pro- PSP provides confidential Referrals to outside providers viding professional counseling and free short-term counseling, are made to enable individuals and support to individuals and as well as referral services for to use their health care benefits Call 800.647.8776 families experiencing personal a range of concerns, including whenever possible. and life changes. parent-child or marital conflict, In addition to counseling Access to PSP services is financial problems, grief and loss, services, PSP also offers consul- an employee benefit that the depression, anxiety, and work-re- tations and educational semi- union seeks to incorporate into lated issues like interpersonal nars to local unions and work collective bargaining agreements conflict or stress on the job. sites on a wide range of topics, whenever possible. The program Whatever the situation, PSP including stress and time man- has become a trusted resource sits down with each client, con- agement, grief and critical inci- for AFSCME-represented ducts an assessment and deter- dent debriefings. employees and their depen- mines the best available treat- dents who work for the City of ment option. Often, treatment * State of Illinois, City of Chicago, and Cook County employees. Also: 347 Village of Round Lake Beach, 3905 “PSP helped very much. It felt good Village of Fox Lake, 2891 Village of Homewood, 3780 Egyptian County to talk to someone who listens.” Health Department, 2402 Randolph County, and 726 City of Pana. March-April 2019 On the Move 11

Legislative session 2019: Bills to watch AFSCME is educating legislators to protect workers’ rights

ith thousands of bills introduced in this session of the Illinois General W Assembly, the AFSCME Council 31 lobbying team at the State Capitol is on the job every day working to defeat measures that would harm AFSCME members and to build support for bills that improve job conditions and fairness for working families. Below are some of the key bills the union is currently tackling in Springfield.

SUPPORT HB2524: Raise pay for state-contracted SJRCA1: Establish youth care workers a fair income tax Directs the Department of Children and Family Services to Proposes an amendment to the increase reimbursement rates Illinois Constitution to allow to delegate agencies and ties for a fair Illinois income tax those increases with inflation structure in which the wealthy starting in 2020. pay their share in order to reduce debt and invest in pub- lic services. (See page 8-9 for HB3446: Protect details.) disability benefits Ensures that any participant in HB158: Increase the Illinois Municipal Retire- revenues for cities ment Fund (IMRF) retains and counties disability benefits when they move between employers who Amends the Illinois Income Tax participate in the IMRF. Act to increase the percent of tax revenue transferred to the SB163: Local Government Distributive Stop wage theft Fund, restoring the rate to 10% by 2024. Prohibits any person or busi- ness that is found to have HB921: Protect violated wage laws from rights of educational doing business with the state. PASSED: support personnel Employees not paid wages by their employers are entitled Collective Bargaining Freedom Act Ensures that educational sup- to recover the underpayment Gov. JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1474 into law on April 12. The port personnel retain their with damages; failure to pay is accrued benefits when they a felony. Collective Bargaining Freedom Act protects collective bargaining resume employment after a lay- rights for workers in Illinois. It makes sacred any collective bar- off by the school board. SB1300: gaining agreements made between employers and employees Support Cook and prohibits any restrictions on collective bargaining in local HB1482: Strengthen County pensions governments. sentencing for violent Allows Cook County to contrib- crimes against state ute to the pension fund from OPPOSED: employees any revenue source. Amends the Criminal Code to Attacking Public Pensions add employees of DCFS to a SB2026: Protect listing of other public employ- health care benefits SCJRCA 9 establishes a ballot measure to amend the pen- ees against whom an assault is sion protection clause of the Illinois Constitution, which cur- Prohibits the state from apply- considered aggravated battery rently ensures that pension benefits cannot be diminished. If ing for any federal waiver that and a felony. would reduce or eliminate any approved by voters, the amendment would allow the General protection or coverage required Assembly to take away benefit accruals from members of any SB1148: Raise pay under the Patient Protection public pension system. for disability workers and Affordable Care Act (ACA), in community-based including pre-existing condi- agencies tions and essential benefits. PENDING: Increases reimbursement rates SR144: Stop sale or Back Pay For Steps for frontline disability workers, lease of the tollway building toward livable wages. AFSCME is supporting passage of a supplementary appropria- Ensures DSPs will earn a base Opposes any sale or lease of tion to fund back wages for state employees who did not receive wage above area minimum wage the Illinois State Toll Highway step increases. laws. (See page 4 for details.) Authority or any redirection of its revenues. 12 On the Move March-April 2019

ON THE LOCAL LEVEL

Fighting for results and commissioned its own study on the public’s fair treatment dime—but the union has yet to see those results. at SHA “I guess they didn’t like Members of AFSCME what they found,” Boyd said Local 3982 are used to having with a laugh. “If we didn’t have to fight tooth and nail for every a union, we would never have improvement at the Springfield gotten a raise. Ever.” Housing Authority. Management also fights During recent negotiations employees on basic rights for a wage-reopener, members already guaranteed in their were compelled to take a strike contract. For example, employ- authorization vote because ees can take up to two sick management refused to bar- days without a note from their gain in good faith. doctor. But the employer was “They weren’t wanting to disciplining people who didn’t give us anything,” Local 3982 produce a note for even a half- President Unita Boyd said. “I’ve day absence. The union took been here for 26 years, since this case all the way to arbitra- before we had a union, and tion and won. every time it’s a fight.” The pervasive disrespect Management wasn’t budg- is especially hard to take, Boyd ing from their offer of a 1% said, when employees helped raise. But the employees knew ensure that the Springfield they had to fight for more. Housing Authority received a Wages are low and employees “high performer” status from AFSCME Local 3182 members Chastity Mitchell, Bonnie Marshall, Stephanie Erickson, Angie Guzman and Taylor Deal. have a hard time making ends the U.S. Department of Hous- meet. ing and Urban Development in Lake County as they pushed for adequate is all about,” said AFSCME The union conducted a 2017. funding from the county board. Council 31 Staff Representative wage study and showed that AFSCME members stayed court clerks win They finally reached a four-year Colin Theis who led negoti- SHA employees were making the course and fought for what first contract agreement, retroactive to 2016. ations for the local. “Making less than neighboring agencies. was right. They held several In addition to basic union change for the better.” Management didn’t like those pickets in front of the housing After four long years, rights like discipline for just employees at the Lake County cause, a grievance procedure, Circuit Clerk’s Office finally layoff and recall rights, and have their first union contract. labor-management meetings, The largely female work- the team also secured overtime force organized a union in early pay, created new job titles, 2015. But then-clerk Keith Brin boosted starting wages and refused to negotiate with the won across-the-board wage employees. He spent tens of increases totaling an effective thousands of dollars fighting 11%—plus a signing bonus— the workers and was eventually all while maintaining health charged with violating Illinois insurance coverage. labor law. “We fought really hard The clerks took matters to improve wages and get into their own hands. They people the overtime pay they helped secure an AFSCME deserved,” Erickson said. “It endorsement for Brin’s oppo- was a lengthy process to say nent, Erin Cartwright Wein- the least but, in the end, we got we what needed. We’re really proud of how far we’ve come.” Erickson said they look “We’re really forward to making further proud of how far improvements. After 12 years with the circuit court, she feels we’ve come.” they are in a better place than ever before. “Employees are much stein and helped her win. happier now that we have our It changed the game com- contract in place,” she said. pletely for the new union. “Members have someone to go “Erin Cartwright Weinstein to with issues and concerns and was more willing to work with a team that will absolutely fight us,” said Local 3182 Bargaining for them and always have their Committee member Stephanie back.” Erickson, who serves as a clerk And it’s a huge change to in a felony courtroom. have an open and positive line Despite the backing of of communication with the the new clerk, Local 3182 clerk. bargaining team members “It felt amazing to get Brin Tamara Luster, Angie Guzman, out of office and get Cartwright Lisa Strandberg and Erickson Weinstein in,” she said. were at the table for two years “That’s what organizing AFSCME Local 3982 President Unita Boyd and fellow SHA employees rally for a fair contract. March-April 2019 On the Move 13

authority and testified to the board of trustees. Despite the financial threat to low-paid employees, the local authorized a strike vote. The determination of the union members ultimately forced the board to pro- vide decent wage increases. AFSCME Council 31 Staff Representative Jessica Derhake and Regional Director Kent Beauchamp led negotiations with Boyd and Vice President Samantha Gaines on the bar- gaining team. Employees received a 2.5% raise in 2018 and another 2.5% in 2019. In September they will be back at the table.

Maintaining quality service at privatized home

AFSCME Local 2452 mem- bers signed their final agree- ment as employees at Win- chester House, a 170-year-old nursing home formerly oper- Local 2452 President Nicole Thomas with fellow members Maribel Novelo and Maricela Medoza on the job at Winchester House nursing home. ated by Lake County. The rel- atively short contract boosted Thomas, a CNA for 16 with the no-layoff clause and wages and protected health years, and her fellow co-work- that was a big win. insurance for the more than 70 ers are looking forward to a “Everything that AFSCME promised Vice President Shawn employees who are preparing new Winchester House. Pestka who has worked at the for a move to a new facility in “Winchester House means us they delivered on.” city’s public works department 2020. a lot to the dedicated workers for 18 years said he’s proud the Transitional Care of Lake who have been here for years,” team secured additional vaca- County owned by Innovative Thomas said. “We love our she and her co-workers are very have power in numbers. They tion time for members earlier Health is set to open its doors jobs and come to work faith- happy with the results after join the Cook County master in their careers. in Mundelein, Illinois next fully every day. It’s not just finalizing their first contract as contract with more than 5,000 “They did away with year. AFSCME members will a building. The care we give AFSCME members. other AFSCME members to that benefit for non-union be there to provide the same makes this home a gift to the “Everything that AFSCME back them up. employees and they got a lot excellent service they always community.” promised us they delivered on,” of flack for it. We felt that if have at the brand-new 185- AFSCME Council 31 Staff she said. “They promised they employees saved up that time, bed facility, which will provide Representative Colin Theis led would fight for us and they did. they deserved to keep it. We long-term nursing, memory negotiations with bargaining This is the best contract we’ve Standing strong stood our ground and kept that care and short-term rehabilita- team members Thomas, Mar- had in 21 years.” in Evanston benefit.” tive services. icela Mendoza, Maribel Novelo Dority-Edwards, a former The team also made pos- President Nicole Thomas and Matt Meillor. public-school teacher, is a court AFSCME Local 1891 mem- itive gains in standby/on-call said negotiations went very liaison case worker for mis- bers at the City of Evanston pay. well and the bargaining com- demeanor domestic violence ratified a four-year contract “I’m proud of our con- mittee was able to remedy cases. The work is a passion with raises totaling 7% in the tract,” Pestka said. “Everything wage discrepancies for lon- Social services for her, and she loves making a final three years, extra floating we get is hard fought. That’s ger-term members. make gains with difference. holidays and an increase of why unions are here.” “Some employees were not She and her co-workers on-call pay. “We’re AFSCME Strong,” making as much as they should AFSCME have been fighting for years for The bargaining team also Kwiecinski emphasized. “Peo- have based on their experience better wages. Now they are on pushed off modest increases to ple who were exempt from the and they got the raises they AFSCME Local 3696 the same pay scale as AFSCME health insurance rates for three union have petitioned to get deserved,” Thomas said. recently acquired 120 new members. They also won back more years and successfully in and we’ve added more than As of December 2018, members, the social services furlough days and received a secured a no-layoff clause to a dozen members in the last every member received a 2% employees at the Cook County $1,200 bonus. protect members from poten- year. They come to us because wage increase or a one-time Judicial Court. The new members were tial changes due to the city’s they aren’t protected without wage adjustment based on Formerly members of the especially proud to win a long- financial problems. a union.” years of experience—which- Metropolitan Alliance of Police, sought paid maternity and President Dan Kwiecinski Led by AFSCME Coun- ever is greater. The members this unit of workers, who do paternity benefit. And now, who has worked for Evanston cil 31 Staff Representative also received an additional 1% work similar to probation instead of having to take a full in the public works depart- Eugene Boatright, Kwiecinski increase on April 1, 2019. officers, wanted to join their day of sick time for a doctor’s ment for 31 years said nego- and Pestka were joined at The committee was able to co-workers represented by appointment, they can take tiations were long and drawn the table by bargaining team hold the line on health insur- AFSCME. short periods of time off in a out because the city said they members Jon Hahn, John ance costs, setting the mem- Stacy Dority-Edwards, a day. These gains mean a lot. had no revenue for raises. His Jaminski, Cheryl Patterson, bership on a good trajectory new union steward and exec- But most importantly, priority was to protect close Stan Hzeem, Kim Daufeldt and for bargaining in 2020. utive board member said that these new AFSCME members to 300 members of the local Lorena Neal. 14 On the Move March-April 2019

SHORT REPORTS

Comptroller Shepell failed to meet perfor- unilaterally imposing his draco- online open-enrollment plat- re-elected to the State Employ- mance standards, and they owe nian health insurance changes,” form run out of Georgia that ees’ Retiree System of Illinois halts payments it to the State of Illinois and said Martha Merrill, AFSCME’s the state could have done (SERS) Board of Trustees on the nearly 500,000 MyBenefits director of employee benefits. in-house,” Merrill said. February 21. No other candi- on Rauner’s users to make this situation “He rushed CMS into a contract AFSCME still has out- dates filed to run. costly contract right as soon as possible,” with Morneau Shepell to be standing grievances on this The SERS Board of Comptroller Mendoza said in a able to implement proposals issue. The audit’s findings pro- Trustees is responsible for After a recent perfor- statement. that never came to be.” vide further evidence for the overseeing the operation of mance audit showed that the The Office of the Auditor The audit also raised ques- union’s case. the pension system that pro- state has spent $27.7 million General’s findings confirm tions about the procurement vides benefits to more than to date on an ineffective online what AFSCME has been process itself, citing protocols 140,000 active and retired state health benefits enrollment arguing: The contract was that the state failed to follow. 1.4 million employees. platform and customer service unnecessary in the first place, Stakeholders had raised con- The board consists of 13 center for employees that is exorbitantly expensive, and cerns, the audit found, but the Illinois workers members: the Illinois Comp- riddled with problems, Illinois the resulting work product has Rauner administration moved get pay raise troller, six trustees appointed Comptroller Susana Mendoza been sub-par. forward anyway. by the governor, four active suspended payments for the “Rauner thought he “What ended up happening On February 19, Gov. JB trustees elected by SERS mem- program. would be successful in forcing is that Rauner wasted nearly 30 Pritzker signed a new mini- bers, and two trustees elected “What’s clear is Morneau AFSCME to an impasse and million dollars for a glorified mum wage law that raises the by SERS retirees. state’s minimum wage to $15 Melissa Garman, an an hour by 2025. AFSCME retiree, is running for “We will have money to the open annuitant seat on the buy shoes for our kids and board (see page 15). There is keep the lights on,” said Adri- another candidate vying for the ana Alvarez, a McDonald’s seat, so there will be an elec- employee in Chicago and a tion. Ballots will be mailed to leader of the Fight for $15, SERS retirees on May 1 and are which has been working for due back to SERS by May 30. laws like this for years. “We’ll be able to put breakfast on the table and maybe go out to the movies every now and then.” Rockford adds Illinois is the fifth state new members to raise its minimum wage to $15, with New Jersey right to its ranks behind; they join California, Massachusetts, New York The City of Rockford and Washington, D.C. as created a new position called momentum builds for a federal Citizen Reporting Unit and increase. Even McDonalds stationed CRUs in police sta- announced they would no lon- tions throughout the city to ger lobby against higher mini- engage with residents who mum wage laws. visit police stations with vari- The minimum wage in ous concerns. Illinois is currently $8.25 per AFSCME Local 1058 Pres- hour. The new law raises the ident Christina Loudermilk wage gradually with the first quickly realized that these nine increase to $9.25 set for Janu- new employees should be part ary 2020. The wage rises again of the city bargaining unit and to $10 that July and then by $1 reached out to AFSCME Coun- each year until it reaches $15 cil 31 for help. in 2025. After learning more about The landmark law realizes the union and the contract’s one of the new governor’s core benefits and protections, a campaign promises. majority of the CRUs signed “Today, we are making it union cards and AFSCME clear that if you work hard in submitted the necessary this state, you deserve to be paperwork to the labor board. able to afford the goods and Now these workers are part of services you produce,” Gov. Local 1058 and covered by the Pritzker said the day he signed current collective bargaining the law. agreement. “Be mindful of newly cre- ated positions or titles that AFSCME aren’t covered by the contract but should be,” AFSCME members Organizing Director Abbey re-elected to Davis said. “Organizing unrep- resented workers in our own SERS Board workplaces is critical for build- ing our strength at the bargain- AFSCME Local 805 Presi- ing table.” dent David Morris, Local 2081 If you have co-workers who President Stephen Mittons should be fellow union members, and Local 1805 member Jer- contact Davis at 312-641-6060. Workers with Fight for $15 Chicago rally for fair pay outside McDonald’s. Photo: Fight for $15 Chicago emy “Tad” Hawk were declared March-April 2019 On the Move 15

RETIREE NOTES

retiree health care benefits. for decades for not fully fund- Illinois Policy AFSCME has been leading the ing public pensions.” Institute targets fight for dignity and security in (See page 8-9 for facts on retirement for public employees the fair tax.) AFSCME retirees for decades and members are critical to that effort. Chapter 31 retiree mem- Prescription bers who receive their pensions from SURS and IMRF have been “Members drug costs targeted by the Illinois Policy Institute (IPI). These retirees should not be Drug companies are mak- received a letter from the IPI ing huge profits by hiking the attacking AFSCME and other misled by the prices on medications that unions and urging retirees to IPI’s attempts to seniors depend upon. revoke their membership in The retail prices of some AFSCME Retirees Chapter 31. trick retirees.” of the most popular medica- The IPI is the same orga- tions older Americans take nization that has waged an to treat everything from dia- unrelenting attack on public “Members should not be betes to high blood pressure employee pensions in Illinois in misled by the IPI’s attempts increased by an average of recent years, including leading to trick retirees into dropping 8.4% in 2017. This rate of a charge for a constitutional out of AFSCME,” said Retirees increase is four times the rate amendment to abolish the Chapter 31 President Larry of inflation. pension protection clause in Brown. “That would deprive AFSCME is taking action. the Illinois State Constitution. the union of the resources SERS Retirees: clause in the Illinois State At the federal level, AFSCME They want to open the door to needed to win legal and legis- Constitution, including HC19, and partners in the Alliance for drastic cuts in public employee lative battles protecting retire- Vote for Garman HC20, HC 21, & SC9. Retired Americans are asking pensions—or to eliminate ment security. In addition, HB 1625 retirees to encourage members of them altogether. “If you or anyone you “I firmly believe that proposes creating a third-tier, Congress to insist on the removal If the pensions of current know received this mailing, retirees need to have a strong 401k-style pension plan that of extraordinary monopoly pro- employees or new hires are please respond to the Illinois representative on the pension would put all investment risk tections for pharmaceutical firms eliminated, that will destabi- Policy Institute mailer just like board to protect the benefits on employees. And HB 3131 in the revised North American lize the entire pension system, thousands of current public that we’ve earned,” said Melissa would require each retirement Free Trade Agreement. Failure to putting retirees’ hard-earned employees have done: Tear it Garman, Chapter 31 executive retirement security at risk. up and throw it out,” Brown board member and candidate AFSCME has fought all said. “Continue to be part of for the open State Employees the way to the Illinois Supreme AFSCME Retirees Chapter Retirement System (SERS) Court to safeguard pension ben- 31, the most effective force Retiree Trustee position. Stay connected efits and fought off Bruce Raun- standing up for public sector Garman is a longtime er’s efforts to drastically reduce retirees today.” AFSCME member who became & take action an advocate for her fellow pub- Stay informed on fast- lic employees after being hired by the Department of Children action items! Sign up and Family Services in 1985. for emails and text alerts at She was a union steward in Local 448 for many years. After AFSCME31.org/RetireeAction retiring in 2016 she joined or contact Chapter 31 Retiree AFSCME Chapter 31 and was soon elected president of her Coordinator Maria Britton-Sipe at DeKalb County sub-chapter and a member of the Chapter [email protected]. Executive Board. “I have a deep understand- ing of the issues retirees face system to post online the strike these provisions from the and understand the importance names of all persons receiving pact will provide huge giveaways of communicating up-to-date an annuity and the amount of to Big Pharma and keep medi- information,” said Melissa. “I the annuity paid. cines unaffordable. hope state retirees choose to On the state level, Chapter support me on the ballot.” 31 has joined a coalition sup- SERS will be mailing out “We need to porting legislation to lower the the ballots to all annuitants costs of prescription drugs: around May 1. Cast your vote protect the • HB 53 would make manufac- for Melissa Garman and return benefits we’ve turers explain why they raise the ballot by May 30. prices and require drug mak- earned.” ers to provide justification for price increases above a certain threshold. Legislative “We continue to rigor- • HB 1441 would allow for attacks on ously oppose all such legisla- importation of safe, low-cost tion,” Council 31 Executive drugs from Canada. pensions Director Roberta Lynch said. • HB 3493 creates a board to “But we must also support oversee and regulate drug Bills were introduced commonsense legislation, like price increases so manufac- this legislative session to either the fair tax, to finally fix the turers can’t take advantage Sub-Chapter 86 member Gary Mazzotti speaks to fellow retirees at a Springfield eliminate or seriously under- chronic structural deficit that of patent monopolies to raise membership meeting. mine the pension protection has been used as the excuse costs on sick people. selves and need assistance. It’s hap- pening throughout the community and the state—people are helping others, helping them recon- nect with their community and giving them the resources they need to survive. Public service workers like us are part of a bigger network, all helping people who need it.

What have you learned from your public service career? Before I started at Maryville, I was doing administrative work. I got laid off and I took a job at Maryville Academy doing totally dif- ferent work. I never thought I would be here long. But when I saw what these girls were Dorothy Smith going through, I felt I had to do something. I’ve been here ever since. We’ve made a lot of difference. And I’ve been challenged in AFSCME Local 55 so many ways. We are helping so many. I’m RECOVERY COACH TECHNICIAN, MARYVILLE ACADEMY not going anywhere. How does your union Tell us about your job at What’s your favorite improve your work? Maryville Academy. part of the job? With AFSCME, there’s been a tremendous I work directly with moms who have addic- I love the toddlers. I love knowing that I can change in the environment for employ- tion issues and their children. The moms help them with their development. ees. Before we won a union, we had not have been placed in our substance abuse And I love just putting a smile on peo- had a raise in three or four years. When recovery program after detox so that they ple’s faces, making them happy. When I see we formed a union, we were finally able can participate while living with their kids or someone looking down, I go over and say to get an increase in pay. And now our as they wait to be reunited with them. We ‘Hey, how are you today? You don’t look like employer must recognize that we have a assist the moms with looking for housing yourself.’ Sometimes it’s just those few words voice in decisions that are made and treat and applying for jobs and teach them par- that show you care, and they open up. us fairly. enting skills. I also love finding creative ways to keep The most important thing in our work is Some of the moms struggle with taking the moms positive through different activi- that we’re professional with the people we care of their kids because they haven’t had ties. For Black History Month this year I cre- serve. We need them to know that we’re a lot of experience with them and they are ated Black History Jeopardy—a game just here for them no matter what. We want going through a lot. They’ve been given like the show. I can’t tell you how thrilled the to make them feel like they are the most the chance to have them back in their lives, moms and the staff were. Everyone was get- important thing. And we do a much better but at the same time they are dealing with ting educated but in such a fun way. Every- job at that if we’re being treated fairly. their addiction. We try to direct and guide one was a winner, everyone got a prize. them on how to show their children that How has your union job they care. What’s the most challenging impacted your life? part of your job? My parents didn’t have a union behind them What’s your inspiration to When we aren’t on the same page as man- for support at their job. Having AFSCME as go to work every day? agement, it can be difficult. I try to make part of my job has helped me in so many It makes me happy that I’m able to make a sure we’re informed of things we should be ways. Financially I’ve benefited, and I feel difference in people’s lives, especially when aware of within the program. more secure in my position here. I also it comes to the children. I dedicate my all to It can be hard some days working with know that I have a voice to be heard. what I do every day. I’m determined to have people who are struggling. But our team I’ve had the union represent me in a positive impact with care and words of takes the bumps in stride. We know what meetings with management and as vice encouragement. we’re up against and we know that this is president I’ve had the chance to help other I also have a great rapport with my what we’re here to do. employees in the same way. That has been co-workers. We’re a team. There are good amazing. people here. How does your job provide a valuable public service? We all provide a service for those who are less fortunate, who can’t do for them-