About 55,000 workers in Los Angeles County went on strike Monday night, causing significant disruptions in public services. The strike, organized by SEIU Local 721, began at 7 p.m. and is scheduled to last for two days, ending at 7 p.m. Wednesday.
The union leaders expressed frustration over the county’s failure to negotiate a fair contract. David Green, the union head, stated that the county underestimated the workers’ resolve and believed they would not strike. This is the first time all members of the union have participated in a walkout.
The strike is impacting nearly all county departments. Libraries and some healthcare clinics are closed, while hospitals will remain operational. Services at public counters in the Hall of Administration may also be halted. The union cited 44 alleged labor law violations by the county as a reason for the strike, including retaliation against workers and outsourcing jobs meant for union members. The workers’ contract expired at the end of March.
Union leaders are also upset about what they called an unreasonably low pay offer from the county. Officials initially claimed they could not afford raises due to costs from wildfires, a substantial sex abuse settlement, and the loss of federal funding. L.A. County Chief Executive Fesia Davenport mentioned that the union’s original salary proposals could cost the county billions.
Davenport acknowledged that the county has moved away from a zero-raise offer but remains cautious about what they can provide. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the county’s financial stability and credit rating.
The strike comes amid growing discontent among other unions representing county employees, particularly first responders, who have also called for better compensation following their efforts during recent wildfires. As the situation develops, the impact on public services will likely continue to unfold.