Illinois’ comeback story starts here.

Rahm’s police and fire pension “fix” becomes law

Rahm’s police and fire pension “fix” becomes law

On May 30, the General Assembly voted to override Gov. Bruce Rauner’s veto of Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s plan to delay payments to Chicago’s police and fire pension funds – at a cost to Chicago taxpayers of an additional $18.6 billion over the next 40 years.

By John Klingner

Anton McLean

Anton McLean

“All of my family members growing up were barbers, cosmetologists, jobs like like that. I learned to love being around people since they were always coming through my house to get a cut. “I love to cut hair, I love being around people. And enrolling in barber school was one of the first positive things...

AFSCME analysis FAQ: Illinois state workers highest-paid in nation

AFSCME analysis FAQ: Illinois state workers highest-paid in nation

Illinois AFSCME workers enjoy yearly wages of nearly $60,000 when adjusted for cost of living, in addition to Cadillac health care benefits. Most Illinois state workers will also get free health insurance when they retire, and career state retirees receive $1.6 million in pension benefits on average.

By Ted Dabrowski, John Klingner