70 IDOT Members Jump Since January

More than 4,000 Illinois state workers rushed to retire by June 30, an increase of more than 40% over the number last June. That total included 69 members of Local 916 at IDOT alone, a significant increase over previous years.

Not everyone made the move because of coming pension reform, but many did.

“The state budget is abysmal, affecting raises. Pensions are underfunded and lawmakers are trying to reform the system by penalizing the employees. And, public workers are being called spoiled and selfish.”  -Tony Barr

“Who can blame them?” said Tony Barr, Local 916 president. “The state budget is abysmal, affecting raises. Pensions are underfunded and lawmakers are trying to reform the system by penalizing the employees. And, public workers are being called spoiled and selfish.” It’s possible that lawmakers will address the issue of pension reform later this month, when they return to Springfield.

Teamsters Local 916 proudly represents over 4,000 hardworking men and women throughout the State of Illinois in the private and public sectors.