SEIU Local 1000 Authorizes Strike Over State Salary Disputes
SEIU Local 1000 members voted to authorize a one-day strike on October 21 after contract negotiations with the state of California stalled.
Approximately 96.2% of the 100,000 members of SEIU Local 1000 voted to authorize a one-day strike scheduled for October 21, 2026. The union is demanding salary increases of 7% in 2026, 7% in 2027, and 6% in 2028, as well as affordable healthcare and work modernization. Union President Anica Walls stated that the administration has rejected all contract renewal proposals.
The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) has petitioned the Public Employment Relations Board to block the walkout. CalHR argues the strike is unlawful because the union has not properly engaged in mediation or agreed upon a list of essential public safety employees. The state is seeking to bar at least 5,350 employees, including hospital staff and prison nurses, from participating in the strike.
SEIU Local 1000 maintains the strike is a protected response to bad faith bargaining and suggests a lower limit of 3,200 essential workers, arguing that external contractors can cover critical duties. While the union prepares five strike lines in Sacramento, CalHR asserts it remains ready to negotiate a fair and responsible agreement.
