California State Workers Launch One-Day Strike Over Pay, Healthcare and Return-to-Office Mandate

Members of SEIU Local 1000 began a one-day strike Wednesday, October 21, calling for better pay, affordable healthcare and greater flexibility to work remotely. The union says negotiations with Gov. Gavin Newsom’s administration stalled after their contract expired in June. The walkout is the union’s first strike since its founding in 2004. State officials warned services at DMV offices, unemployment centers and agencies could face delays. Essential health and public-safety workers are excluded. The parties are scheduled to meet for mediation on October 30.