McLean County Times

Illinois voters will decide on giving powers to unions through a proposed amendment to the 1970 Illinois Constitution. The legislation is known as Amendment 1, or the “Worker’s Rights Amendment.”

“Amendment 1 is the most important vote Illinoisans will take this election,” state Rep. Dan Caulkins said in a recent Facebook post. 

He also shared a 29-minute live-event discussion that he had with Ted Dabrowski and Shannon Adcock.

Ballotpedia noted that the amendment, if passed, will ensure people in unions can decide their hours, wages and working conditions, to name a few items. But there have been several arguments against the amendment suggesting it won’t work.

“I support unions and non-unions,” state Rep. Blaine Wilhour (R-Beecher City) said, quoted by Ballotpedia. “But let’s recognize, unions don't create jobs. Special interest pandering may create campaign donations, but it doesn't create jobs.”

Caulkins also shared information on a town hall forum focusing on Amendment 1. The event will be held at Yoder's Kitchen in Arthur, Ill., from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sept. 20. Reps. Wilhour, Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville), Chris Miller (R-Robinson) and Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich) will also attend.

Ballotpedia noted that the amendment will prohibit right-to-work laws, ensuring that no employee would be required to join, or not join, a union or be required to pay dues for the union to be an employee.

“One of the most diabolical ways to limit collective bargaining is through so-called right-to-work laws,” state Rep. Lance Yednock (D-Ottawa) said, quoted by Ballotpedia. “States that limit collective bargaining see declines in wages, benefits, training, and safety standards. And it's a losing proposition for all workers.”

Caulkins was first elected to the Illinois House in 2018, the General Assembly website said. His legislative experience includes serving on the Public Utilities; Prescription Drug Affordability; Energy and Environment; and Cybersecurity, Data Analytics and IT committees.  He resides in Decatur.

Ballotpedia noted that Caulkins ran uncontested in the June primary election and is running uncontested again in the Nov. 8 general election.