By Greg Bishop | The Center Square
The Center Square

(The Center Square) − Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he understands why labor leaders are walking away from the agreed-bill process, but a state legislator warns of more business trouble ahead.

The Joint Employers, a group of Illinois companies and business groups, said they are disappointed organized labor has chosen to not take part in the agreed-bill process.

“For 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,” the group said in a statement Tuesday. “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.”

The AFL-CIO of Illinois didn’t immediately respond for comment.

“During a time of increasing political polarization, policymakers should be looking for ways to maintain collaboration instead of further deepening divides,” the Joint Employers statement said.

Pritzker was asked about the situation Wednesday. He said he understands the labor movement’s frustration.

“About the fact that Republicans across the country have been unwilling to actually cut deals that make sense with labor,” Pritzker said. “I understand the perspective. I have to say, we’ve seen the process work reasonably well in the state of Illinois before. But, you know, it’s their prerogative to choose not to be part of that process.”

State Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, has been involved in the agreed-bill process in the past. His office declined a phone interview with The Center Square, but sent a statement.

“I remain focused on building a stronger Illinois by engaging both labor and business, encouraging conversation and building consensus,” the statement said. “There’s no question the national environment has been hostile to working families, and we need to prioritize policy within our state that uplifts workers. As we return to Springfield, I’m optimistic we will all be able to appreciate stakeholder concerns, responsibly work together and further deliver for working families.”

State Rep. Dan Ugaste, R-Geneva, said the move sends a terrible message to the nation.

“My hope is that it’s not completely blown up,” Ugaste told The Center Square. “I believe it’s a misguided policy. The timing for this is completely wrong. And it sends a terrible message to the nation that Illinois is going to be even more lopsided in dealing with business and that we’re not going to be looking for additional investment or growth.

Ugaste said he does have hope.

“My hope is that people in, you know, in the legislature, in government are going to work to maintain as much balance in these areas as possible,” he said.