SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois' major public-employee union has filed a lawsuit to stop Gov. Bruce Rauner from imposing contract terms because negotiations have been declared hopelessly deadlocked.
The action is likely only temporary, however.
The state council of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees went to labor-friendly St. Clair County Wednesday. It's asking a judge to bar Republican Rauner from taking action to implement the contract.
A state labor board ruled this month that talks are officially at "impasse." That means the governor can impose whatever contract conditions he chooses. The union can accept or strike.
But the complaint argues impasse isn't official until issued in writing, which hasn't happened.
Rauner spokeswoman Catherine Kelly says AFSCME should cooperate with Rauner on his proposals. AFSCME objects to them.
