Gov. Bruce Rauner's administration says it wants to bypass a legal recommendation in order to expedite the resolution of its case on whether negotiations have stalled between the state and the largest state worker's union.
Rauner's administration says a quick resolution will help Illinois save $35 million to $40 million per month in higher health insurance costs for workers.
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees spokesman Anders Lindall says the move is a play by the governor to impose his own terms for a new contract. AFSCME members could decide on whether to stage a strike if the Illinois Labor Relations Board makes that determination.
The union said it thinks the request is without precedent.
Rauner spokeswoman Catherine Kelly said the use of an administrative law judge is optional under state labor laws.