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Voters will see the question at the top of the ballot Nov. 8,
asking to add collective bargaining rights to the state
constitution. Labor groups are using millions of dollars in ads
to promote the amendment, saying it will increase workers’ wages
and job safety.
“When we all do better, it makes Illinois stronger,” the group
Workers’ Rights Amendment says on their website. “This November,
workers are on the ballot. Voting yes on the Workers’ Rights
Amendment will update the Illinois constitution to guarantee
every Illinoisan has the right to join together with other
workers to negotiate for better pay, improved benefits, and safe
working conditions.”
Illinois Manufacturers' Association President Mark Denzler
opposes the measure, saying it will make it more difficult for
businesses to operate in Illinois.
“And we don’t think you need to enshrine that in the
constitution,” Denzler told The Center Square. “We’ve seen
problems that the pension clause has created. Lawmakers can’t go
back and make tweaks to it. We think this would be a mistake to
enshrine this in the constitution as well.”
A 2011 law impacting pensions was struck down by the Illinois
Supreme Court citing the constitutional protections against
diminished benefits.
Illinois Chamber of Commerce President Todd Maisch is also
against the measure for similar reasons
“It’s terrible and it will definitely lead to disinvestment or
investment that will never come because we distinguish ourselves
as anti-business yet again,” Maisch told WMAY.
Passage isn’t just bad for the state’s already challenged
business climate, Maisch said. Parents will also be impacted
where teachers may challenge work stoppage limits.
“So that as soon as ‘we don’t like an offer that comes from a
school board, we can go straight to strike the next morning if
we want to.’ Right now, that’s limited. It pumps the breaks.
It’s a very deliberative process. That law could be out the door
in no time.”
The amendment requires either a three-fifths majority of those
voting on the measure, or a simple majority of all votes cast,
to pass.
WGN, Emmerson College and The Hill released a poll showing
support falling short of the 60% needed for approval.
Greg Bishop reports on Illinois government and
other issues for The Center Square. Bishop has years of
award-winning broadcast experience and hosts the WMAY Morning
Newsfeed out of Springfield.
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