Union unhappy with new uniforms

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. -- The state Corrections Department plans to replace the green polyester uniforms its employees have been using for at least 30 years, but the union that represents prison workers is not happy.

The uniform money could be used to hire more prison guards, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees says. The union also complains that the blue uniforms will look too much like the clothing worn by prisoners and that new seven-pointed badges can be used as weapons.

"There was no hue and cry from the officers to spend millions on new uniforms," said Buddy Maupin, regional director for AFSCME Council 31. "There are other things we would much rather see them spend money on."

The Corrections Department has a contract to spend $6 million on the new uniforms over the next three years.

It spent $1.4 million on the old uniforms in fiscal 1999 and $1.2 million in 2000. That climbed to $2.9 million in the last budget, including $2.5 million to start production of the new uniforms.

The Corrections Department says the new uniforms will be more durable and comfortable.

"Right now, shirts last a year, a year-and-a-half if we're lucky," spokesman Brian Fairchild said. "With the new shirts, we expect a six- to eight-year life expectancy based on experience in the field."

He also said the new uniforms are a result of what Director Donald Snyder's transition team heard from officers when he took over in 1999.