Ill. state AFSCME workers approve contract

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois state government workers represented by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees have voted to approve a three-year contract.

AFSCME (AFSK'-mee) Council 31 officials announced Tuesday evening that its 35,000 members approved the pact reached Feb. 28 after 15 months of negotiating with Gov. Pat Quinn.

Workers won't get a raise in the first year but have accepted 2 percent salary increases in the last two. Those due incentive "step" increases will get them and ten years' seniority will bring a $25-a-month longevity increase.

But union members will pay an additional 1 percent of salary for health care premiums and other health costs.

Quinn also agreed to provide a 5.25 percent pay increase due in 2011 that refused to pay at the time.

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Online: http://www.afscme31.org