Lawmakers look to solidify state labor laws through constitutional amendment

SPRINGFIELD, Ill - (WICS/WRSP) — Illinoisans headed to the polls in 2022 may have the chance to decide on strengthening the state's labor laws.

Lawmakers are looking to get a constitutional amendment on the ballot in November 2022 that would allow voters to block any state or local laws that don’t allow union organizing.

The proposition would amend the state’s Bill of Rights to include, "the fundamental right of Illinois employees to organize and bargain collectively." That would include for the purpose of negotiating wages, hours, and working conditions. The amendment would also ban any state or local law from requiring employees to join or not to join a union as a condition of employment.

"The pandemic is a stark reminder that workers deserve more respect. That means making sure they have the pay, benefits, resources, and equipment they need to keep protecting, supplying, and treating Illinoisans," Senator Ram Villavillam, D-Chicago, said.

Illinois already has strong labor protection laws, according to Villavillam. If passed, the constitutional amendment would protect them further from future potential changes.

The National Labor Relations Act organizes labor within the private sector, therefore the amendment would only apply to public sector employees under federal law.

The resolution to amend the state constitution passed the Senate on Friday, May 21. If it passes the House, it will then head to the ballot for voters to decide.