Federal union workers urged not to vacation in anti-union states

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Chicago area union leaders don’t want to see federal workers vacationing at Disney World, the Wisconsin Dells or the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Ohio this year.

Union leaders here are urging Chicago area federal employees to boycott Wisconsin, Ohio, Florida and other states that have taken “anti-labor” and “anti-union positions.”

“Why should you spend your good money in a state that basically works against unions and works against workers,” said John O’Grady, president of the American Federation of Government Employees, Local 704 which represents 1,000 workers at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in Chicago.

AFGA is making the appeal to some 75,000 Chicago area federal employees at various federal agencies.

The union is also advising federal workers to limit their spending and save their money given the recent two-year pay freeze imposed on them, the threat that the freeze may be extended for three more years, and the risk that federal workers could face unpaid furlough days if a budget stalemate occurs, O’Grady said.

“In light of the fact that our health care contributions and medical costs are soaring, the price of gasoline is skyrocketing and every time we walk into the grocery store it costs us more money and not to mention that Congress may yet send us home on furlough without pay, we are recommending that you reduce all spending at local restaurants and stores, cancel or at least defer vacations and eliminate other non-essential expenditures while swiftly building up your savings,” the union said in emails sent to members.

“We ask that you consider whether it is wise to spend your money or time in places where unions and their members are not welcome. To the extent you have to spend money on such activities, we strongly suggest that you seek out only those businesses where the employees belong to a union.”

Legislation is being pursued to reduce union power and make it more difficult for unions to sign up workers in at least 12 states, O’Grady said.

Tourism representatives in Wisconsin, Ohio and Florida did not return calls for comment.