Hoffman Calls on Colleagues to Stand with Illinois Workers, Override Governor’s Veto of Worker’s Rights Bill

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, is urging his colleagues in the House to override Gov. Rauner’s veto of a bill that protects collective bargaining rights for working people in Illinois.

“This governor has time and time again made unprecedented attacks on hardworking men and women in Illinois,” Hoffman said. “This is not a partisan issue, it’s a worker’s rights issue. You can either stand with the governor and his billionaire allies, or you can stand with the working people of Illinois.”

Hoffman’s Senate Bill 1905 protects all Illinois workers from any unit of government from enacting local “right-to-work” laws pushed by the governor 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, which are supported by large business interests, typically cut middle-class wages.

“Right-to-work is a key aspect of the governor’s corporate agenda that reduces wages for working families so that millionaire CEOs can increase their bonuses and profits,” Hoffman said. “As the chair of the Labor and Commerce Committee, I will be encouraging my colleagues in the House to override the governor’s veto and support fair wages and benefits for middle-class families in Illinois.”

Hoffman’s bill is supported by the Illinois AFL-CIO, Illinois Federation of Teachers and Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois.