Walsh Urges Colleagues to Override Gov. Rauner’s Veto of Pro-Worker’s Bill

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Larry Walsh, Jr., D-Elwood, is criticizing Gov. Bruce Rauner’s veto of a bill that would have protected working men and women in Illinois by preserving their right to collectively bargain.

“Working people’s right to negotiate as a group gives them the strength in numbers they need to stand up to huge corporations and ultra-wealthy CEOs and demand fair wages and a safe workplace,” Walsh said. “Because Governor Bruce Rauner is dedicated to an agenda of enriching big businesses at the expense of working people, he wants to eliminate collective bargaining rights. We pushed this legislation because the governor’s agenda doesn’t work for middle-class families. I hope we’ll continue to stand up for the rights of working people by overriding the governor’s veto.”

Walsh’s Senate Bill 1905 protects all Illinois workers by any unit of government from enacting local “right-to-work” laws pushed by Rauner and his right-wing allies. The governor’s plan would weaken the ability of individuals to collective negotiate for fair wages, safe workplaces and competitive benefits. Studies show these “right-to-work” laws cut middle-class wages.
Walsh’s bill is supported by the Illinois AFL-CIO, Illinois Federation of Teachers and Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois.

“Unions give workers the right to earn a fair wage, ensure safe working conditions, and the ability to receive benefits like paid time off, sick leave, and retirement income,” Walsh said. “I am urging my fellow legislators to override the governor’s veto and stand up for the working men and women of our state.”