Aug. 18--Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner on Tuesday sent lawmakers a letter asking them not to override his veto of a measure aimed at ensuring state workers won't be locked out or go on strike during negotiations on a new contract.
The measure, backed by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 31, would require binding arbitration if an impasse is reached.
Rauner has called the bill "one of the worst pieces of legislation in Illinois history." On Tuesday, he sent the letter to lawmakers, arguing that voting to override his veto would lead to a tax hike because it would strip his ability to bargain with unions and give it to arbitrators, who historically are more friendly to organized labor.
"It is a direct affront to Illinois taxpayers and to my ability to negotiate on their behalf," Rauner wrote.
Later, the governor made a rare visit to the Capitol press room to reiterate his point, telling reporters that he believes the legislation is unconstitutional. Still, he said he had no interest in taking the matter to court.
"We're just trying to persuade the legislature, please just let me do my job," Rauner said.
Wednesday is the deadline for the General Assembly to begin action to override Rauner's veto on the labor bill. Democratic Senate President John Cullerton has said that he has the votes to override Rauner's veto when the chamber convenes Wednesday. That would send the bill to the House, which returns next week. Speaker Michael Madigan also has pledged that he has the votes to override Rauner's veto, though it's expected to be an extremely tough roll call.
The union contract expired July 1 but workers remain on the job.
