‘Workers win’ as Illinois passes pro-labor constitutional amendment
Labor advocates on Tuesday applauded the passage of an Illinois state constitutional amendment enshrining what one proponent called “the strongest worker protections in the nation.”
With 100% of precincts reporting Tuesday—a week after Election Day—the Associated Press reported that the Workers’ Rights Amendment had received 58% of the vote.
Notably, the amendment codifies “the fundamental right to organize and to bargain collectively.” It further states that “no law shall pass that interferes with, negates, or diminishes the right of employees to organize and bargain collectively over their wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment and workplace safety.”
Additionally, Tim Drea, chair of the Vote Yes for Workers’ Rights campaign, said in a statement that “the voters of Illinois sent a clear message by passing the Workers’ Rights Amendment.”
“Illinois is and always will be a workers’ rights state,” Drea added. “This victory is a historic moment for our workers and our entire state.”
Moreover, Labor and progressive groups, as well as a broad range of Democrats from Gov. J.B. Pritzker to U.S. Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García, backed the amendment, which the Chamber of Commerce, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, and Republicans staunchly opposed.
Also, the Chicago Federation of Labor hailed the amendment’s passage as “a win for every single working class individual in Illinois.”
“Workers’ rights are now in our state constitution,” the organization tweeted. “We are proud of every single worker in Illinois who chose to vote for themselves on Nov. 8. WE are what makes Illinois great, and no one ever shall take away our OUR right to negotiate safe working conditions and fair pay!”.
Besides, it was a good election for workers’ rights, with voters in several states and cities saying employees—including those who earn tips—should be paid more. A measure that would pay medical workers in one California city $25 an hour is also likely going to pass.
Originally published at Commondreams.org.
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