Six Wisconsin state employee unions vote to recertify

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Six small Wisconsin state employee unions have voted to recertify, even though they are left with no power to collectively bargain over anything other than base wage increases no higher than inflation.

Labor leaders told the Wisconsin State Journal that the Wednesday votes show they remain united and strong.

Gov. Scott Walker’s administration proposed a pay plan for state employees that includes no pay raises over a two-year period. But the six unions that voted to recertify could seek raises of about 2 percent.

A spokesman for Walker’s administration says they will negotiate in good faith with them.

Most state unions, including those that represent the bulk of state workers, chose not to seek recertification.