In a vivid example of one of the risks associated with union membership, employees of the State of Illinois may face a choice between complying with an AFSCME-called strike, with the potential loss of up to $8000 per month in wages and benefits, or be fined $5000 by the union for crossing the picket line. In an uncharacteristic move, the States website instructs workers how to opt out of the union and acquire fair share payer status, thereby being allowed to work without fear of union retaliation.
