AFSCME ratifies 3-year contract with state; includes pay raises, increased health care costs

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois — Illinois' largest union has given the final go ahead on a three-year contract with the state.

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 31 announced Friday that a second ratification is complete. The union and Gov. Pat Quinn reached agreement in February after negotiating 15 months.

The union gets salary increases in the last two years, but members pay more for health care.

AFSCME took a second vote because Attorney General Lisa Madigan hasn't dropped a lawsuit Quinn pressed over raises due in 2011 and 2012. The first vote was based on Quinn's promise to drop it.

In the contract, Quinn agreed to pay the back wages. He needs a $140 million appropriation from lawmakers.

Madigan says she won't drop the lawsuit until the money is approved.

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