We have received many inquiries regarding the 2008-2012 frozen wages increases and steps implemention as well as the backwages owed and the subsequent payment of those wages.
We were notified by CMS that they would seek to implement one step increase as quickly as possible as they have done with other Unions who have settled their contracts.
On July 1, 2013, all wage increases (COLAs) and step increases due will be reinstated as well as an additional 2% increase per the terms of the new collective bargaining agreement.
Regarding backpay, both the Union and the State jointly sought and pushed for legislation that would appropriate funding for all backwages owed in conjunction with the wage increase freeze implemented by the State under the 2008-2012 agreement. Unfortunately, the legislature did not pass the funding during this session.
Nevertheless, we still have our grievances, lawsuit, and unfair labor practice before the Illinois Labor Relations Board pending which protects your rights to the backwages owed. Furthermore, both the Unions and the State continue to lobby the legislators, even during their time away from session, for the backwages funding. We have also received word that CMS will attempt to utilitze any surplus in funding from this Fiscal Year to pay out some of the backwages owed to offset the sum required that will be requested to be appropriated by the Legislature when they return to session.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
