Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker/Photo: Dave Dahl

By Dave Dahl/A.J. Harris

On his first full day in office, Gov. J.B. Pritzker got off on the right “step,” as far as state workers and unions which represent them are concerned. The step increases, automatic raises, had stopped in 2015.

The newly-sworn in Governor said that they would begin implementing them immediately and will remain involved with discussions and negotiations with state workers to make sure they’re living up to the promises the state has made.

Pritzker went on to say that as long as he is governor, state agencies will engage in project labor agreements.

Also, the governor said state agencies will be prohibited from asking salary history of applicants. Pritzker says this is a first step toward a $15/hour minimum wage.