State workers across Illinois are protesting Gov. Bruce Rauner's plan to enact his own terms for a new labor contract.
The demonstrations at 120 worksites across Illinois Thursday are organized by AFSCME, which represents about 38,000 state employees.
AFSCME regional director Eddie Caumiant says the union's message Thursday is that it wants to get back to the bargaining table.
"We're prepared to sit at the table and we're prepared to hammer out a deal, rather than have a deal forced upon us."
Caumiant says the union has received no indication from the administration that it's willing to negotiate.
"We have seen some communications here over the last couple of days, with them trying to put the best possible face on what they're trying to do. But, no indication they're willing to talk to their employees about what they want to do."
Caumiant says a strike may be inevitable if the governor goes ahead with his plan.
"The question becomes either they accept these deep cuts to their pay, to their benefits, to their working conditions, to their safety, or they stand up and fight."
Caumiant says AFSCME members could be ready to take action sooner than later.
"Our members are frustrated. They have tried for months, and really over a year now, to be the bigger person at this table and to let the administration know we're here to work with you. But, clearly Rauner's not accepting that."
A state labor board ruled Tuesday that contract negotiations between the two sides are stalled. On Wednesday Rauner's administration said it intends to implement a 40-hour workweek, instead of 37.5 hours, and a merit-pay system as soon as possible.
Rauner estimates his plan will save Illinois $3 billion over four years.
AFSCME says health insurance premiums will also double and workers' wages will be frozen for four years.
AFSCME plans to appeal the labor board ruling. If the union loses, workers can vote on whether to strike.
