(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Illinois voters are being asked to consider adding an amendment to the state constitution, but what it means is the subject of debate.
Unions supporting the measure say it will protect important workers’ rights, but those opposed say it will give unions too much power.
“The workers’ rights amendment will protect the ability to speak up for the training and the tools that we need to keep your family safe,” says Chicago firefighter Patrick Quane says.
He’s urging Illinois voters to vote “yes” to Amendment 1, which states in part "that employees shall have the fundamental right to organize and to bargain collectively."
Chicago nurse Debreshia Anderson also supports the measure, saying it's the only way to protect workers who speak up.
But opponents to the amendment, including the conservative Illinois Policy Institute, say it goes too far and "enshrines government union rights in the Illinois constitution, something no other state has done."
“It will certainly cost of jobs and economic growth and the natural tax revenues that would come along with that,” says Todd Maisch, president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, which also opposes the measure.
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