Voters will be asked if Illinois workers should have a fundamental right to unionize in the March election.
The amendment to the State Constitution would make it a fundamental right for workers to form a union and collectively bargain. It was sponsored by Representative Marcus Evans of Chicago, who urged his colleagues to vote yes.
“Where you stand when you look that working mother in the community in the eye and do you want her to have collective bargaining? Do you want representation? Or do you want to join other states who in a concerted effort are taking away the rights of the working man and woman? You have to make a decision.”
But Representative Blaine Wilhour of Effingham says this will drive businesses out of the state.
“I support unions and non-unions but lets recognize unions don’t create jobs. Special interest pandering may create campaign donations but it doesn’t create jobs.”
The amendment also prohibits municipalities from passing local right to work laws. A two thirds majority of House and Senate lawmakers approved the change but the final say will be up to the voters in the spring.
