Los Angeles County Labor Strike Averted: SEIU Local 721 Reaches Agreement with Officials

"Approved" stamped on a document.

Los Angeles County averts potential strike, reaching agreement with SEIU Local 721 to resume negotiations and address workers’ concerns.

At a Glance

  • Strike scheduled for October 10 postponed after agreement reached
  • Over 55,000 county employees affected, including librarians, social workers, and nurses
  • Negotiations to begin ahead of schedule on November 7
  • Agreement addresses union’s unfair labor practice claims and contract concerns
  • County officials emphasize importance of workforce partnership and respect

Strike Averted as County and Union Reach Agreement

In a significant development for Los Angeles County, officials and SEIU Local 721 have successfully negotiated an agreement, averting a potentially disruptive strike that was set to begin on October 10. This last-minute deal ensures the continuity of essential services for residents while addressing the concerns of over 55,000 dedicated county workers.

The agreement came after a crucial meeting between union leadership and county officials, resulting in a signed “negotiation framework.” This framework lays the groundwork for addressing outstanding issues and allows for bargaining to begin ahead of schedule, with negotiations set to start on November 7.

Addressing Workers’ Concerns

SEIU Local 721, representing a diverse workforce including librarians, social workers, nurses, and other essential service providers, had previously filed over 20 “unfair labor practice” charges against the county. These charges included allegations of improper use of contractors and failure to adhere to the existing labor agreement, which is set to expire in March 2025.

“Now our union has secured a landmark agreement that protects L.A. County members and gets us back to the bargaining table earlier than expected,” said David Green, President of SEIU Local 721.

In response to the union’s concerns, county officials have agreed to rectify any errors in publicly posted labor agreements. This commitment demonstrates a willingness to address the issues raised by the union and maintain transparency in the negotiation process.

County’s Perspective and Future Outlook

While the county had filed its own unfair labor charge against the union over the strike threat, citing concerns for vulnerable residents, the recent agreement marks a positive shift in the relationship between the two parties. Supervisor Lindsey Horvath emphasized the importance of partnership and respect for the county’s workforce in avoiding the strike.

“Los Angeles County is fortunate to have a skilled and dedicated workforce that deserves our partnership and respect. By returning to the table, Los Angeles County avoids an October strike and reaffirms our commitment to honoring the dignity of the workers who provide the County’s vital social safety net services,” said Horvath in a prepared statement.

As negotiations are set to resume, both parties express optimism about reaching a fair and mutually beneficial agreement. The union aims to secure a strong contract that respects its members and their work, while county officials seek to maintain essential services for residents while addressing the concerns of their workforce.

Sources:

  1. L.A. County, Employees’ Union Set Labor Talks, Stave Off Threatened Strike
  2. LA County workers’ strike placed on hold, as negotiations are set to resume
  3. SEIU 721 and L.A. County reach agreement to avert threatened strike
  4. LA County strike averted after reaching agreement with union
  5. L.A. County, Employees’ Union Set Labor Talks, Stave Off Threatened Strike
  6. LA County workers’ strike placed on hold, as negotiations are set to resume

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