ISIA Membership, the Joint Employers (comprised of the Associated General Contractors of Illinois, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Illinois Chamber of Commerce, Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, Illinois Retail Merchants Association, and the National Federation of Independent Business) released the below statement, after the IL AFL-CIO announced it would withdraw from the agreed bill process:

“For nearly four decades, the agreed bill process has set the standard in Illinois for collaboration on difficult and complex policy issues impacting the unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation systems. Regardless of which political party held power, the process ensured business groups and organized labor negotiated in good faith to find common ground to protect workers, employers, and grow the economy.

Whether Democrat or Republican, every administration since 1982 has joined legislative leaders in both chambers in supporting the agreed bill process, recognizing it is a balanced approach that has served Illinois well. Indeed, this process has resulted in sound policies that have led to a healthy unemployment trust fund with good benefits for unemployed workers, and a workers compensation system that justly provides for injured workers at an average cost for employers. For Illinois to succeed, businesses need an economic climate that encourages growth, which includes investing in employees. This process is working, with state leaders touting Illinois’ recent economic resurgence.

During a time of increasing political polarization, policymakers should be looking for ways to maintain collaboration instead of further deepening divides. While we are disappointed organized labor has chosen to lean into the politics of division, we encourage the Governor’s office, legislative leaders and rank and file members to embrace compromise and communication and stand by the agreed bill process as a way for stakeholders to work through their differences and drive progress for all. Illinois – and our nation – needs leadership, civility and bipartisan cooperation.”

The ISIA echoes the underpinnings of the Joint Employers Statement, endorsing the sentiments of cooperation, civility and leadership for mutual goals and a more prosperous Illinois.