Chicago Police Union Wants 12% Raise

Illinois has the worst debt rating in the US thanks to out-of-control union pensions and health care costs. And yet, police unions in Chicago are asking for consecutive 6 percent annual raises plus a cost of living adjustment:

Union president Michael Shields said it’s simply a matter of Mayor Rahm
Emanuel making public safety a priority. In addition to 6 percent yearly
raises, the union wants $3,000 yearly “cost of living in Chicago”
stipends for police to help defray the expense of the requirement that
they live within city limits.

This is just an early proposal, part of the union negotiating strategy. No one expects the final deal will be close to 6 percent per year.