Contact Information
Office of State Representative Kelly Cassidy

5533 N Broadway

Chicago IL 60640



Phone: 773-784-2002

Fax: 773-784-2060

Email: [email protected]
Statement on Negotiation Impasse


This morning, Governor Rauner declared an impasse in negotiations with AFSCME, the union that represents over 38,000 child protection workers, nursing aides, correctional officers, human service workers and other state employees. Prior to this week, there was no indication negotiations would be broken off, and AFSCME has expressed their willingness to continue to bargain and work to find common ground. 


Declaring an impasse creates chaos and is not the path to reaching a fair agreement. Negotiations are inherently difficult, but dedication to working through differences and achieving compromise is critically important.
Our state employees that help to keep us safe, respond to emergencies and care for our most vulnerable deserve more than bad faith negotiations and brutal cuts. Their work is vitally important, and putting in whatever effort it takes to reach a fair agreement is equally important.


I strongly urge all parties to recommit to sincere negotiation and work through the process to achieve compromise. While it is unclear what the result of an impasse could be, a strike or lockout would be devastating. Our social service system has already faced crushing difficulties under the budget impasse, causing many organizations to reduce services or shut their doors. This would further reduce critically important services for our most vulnerable citizens. 
Donations for Fire Victims
As you may have heard, a building in Rogers Park suffered a devastating fire earlier this week. Many families have been displaced, and we are working to help them rebuild their lives. You can help by donating to the following:


GoFundMe for New Field Family

GoFundMe for Nick and Andrew

Northside Community Resources (assisting families with housing)



State Representative Kelly Cassidy | 5533 N. Broadway | Chicago | IL | 60640