Gov. Bruce Rauner's administration says it wants to bypass a legal recommendation in order to expedite the resolution of its case on whether negotiations have stalled between the state and the largest state worker's union. Rauner's administration says a quick resolution will help Illinois save $35 million to $40 million per month in higher health insurance costs for workers.
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees spokesman Anders Lindall says the move is a play by the governor to impose his own terms for a new contract. AFSCME members could decide on whether to stage a strike if the Illinois Labor Relations Board makes that determination.
The union says it thinks the request is without precedent. A Rauner spokeswoman says the use of an administrative law judge is optional under state labor laws.
