Thousands of California state workers are set to strike on Wednesday, rallying outside government buildings in several cities due to unresolved contract negotiations with Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration.
Union Demands
SEIU Local 1000, which represents approximately 100,000 public employees, including nurses and teachers, is advocating for:
- A 20% salary increase over three years
- Higher state healthcare contributions
- Flexible telework options
The union has been at an impasse with the state since its contract expired on June 30. Negotiators from SEIU Local 1000 claim that state officials rejected their key proposals and have accused the state of engaging in bad faith bargaining. They allege that the state waited until the contract expiration date to respond to some proposals and claimed there was "no money" for additional compensation.
