Delay scheduled pay hikes for state workers

COVID-19 has blown a hole in Illinois' budget to the tune of $6 billion to $7 billion, according to Gov. J.B. Pritzker. That means Springfield will be scrambling to make up the budget deficit. I feel adamant that a shared sacrifice from state employees is necessary to properly address the coronavirus crisis.

Gov. Pritzker, my advice to you is to use your emergency powers to delay the two scheduled salary increases of $261 million to the state's largest bargaining unit which is represented by AFSCME Council 31. How can we expect pay raises when our friends and neighbors, who pay our salaries through their tax dollars, are losing their jobs and businesses?

Under normal circumstances, the idea of turning down a raise is unimaginable to me. But the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic is unprecedented. Illinoisans employed in the private sector have been subjected to layoffs and salary cuts related to the pandemic crisis while state employees continue to collect their paycheck and use their benefits without interruption.

Delaying raises is advisable because under the AFSCME contract, the state has the authority to lay off state workers. Delaying these raises could help more state employees to keep their jobs instead of increasing the ranks of the unemployed in Illinois.

Furthermore, assisting Illinois' most vulnerable residents and those who have been financially devastated by the crisis is more important than a raise.

Delaying these increases is a unique opportunity for public servants to make a shared sacrifice for the common good of the entire state.

Connie Cain

Gilberts