Illinois House Speaker Sued by Staff Over Unionization Rights

Staffers accuse Speaker Welch of violating constitutional rights and creating a hostile work environment by refusing to engage in collective bargaining.

The Illinois Legislative Staff Association filed a lawsuit demanding union recognition and collective bargaining rights.
Staffers allege Speaker Welch has failed to uphold the labor rights amendment passed in 2022.
The lawsuit claims Welch's actions have fostered a climate of fear and anxiety among staff.
The association is seeking judicial intervention to enforce their bargaining rights and appoint a mediator.
Welch's proposed legislation to allow unionization has stalled in the Senate, delaying any progress.