29-04-2025
Over 50,000 LA County workers strike, disrupting services across region
Over 50,000 Los Angeles County employees began a two-day strike on Monday evening, demanding better wages and improved working conditions. The mass walkout, organized by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 721, marks the first time all 55,000 union members have taken collective action striking workers include public health professionals, social workers, custodians, clerical staff, and parks and recreation employees — all essential personnel serving the county's 10 million Across County Facilities
According to the Associated Press, the strike is expected to last until 7 p.m. on Wednesday and may temporarily affect services at libraries, healthcare clinics, beach restrooms, and administrative offices. While hospitals and many core county functions remain operational, departments such as Public Works and the medical examiner's office could experience lines were set up at multiple county locations, including Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Department of Children and Family Services offices. Workers donned purple and held signs reading, 'We are the safety net!'Union Alleges Labor ViolationsSEIU Local 721 alleges that Los Angeles County committed 44 labor law violations during negotiations, including retaliation against union activity and outsourcing of union-designated jobs.'This workforce helped LA County navigate countless emergencies,' said union president David Green. 'Now, we demand respect, not retaliation.'advertisementCounty Responds With Budget ConcernsCounty officials point to serious financial strain as a reason for the slow progress. A spokesperson from the chief executive office cited projected costs $2 billion related to wildfires, a potential $4 billion settlement in sexual abuse settlement, and ongoing uncertainty around federal funding.'We're facing one of the worst financial challenges in our history,' said spokesperson Elizabeth Marcellino. 'We must balance fair pay with sustaining services and avoiding Frustration Fuels ActionLillian Cabral, a veteran hospital worker and member of the bargaining committee, called the strike a 'historic moment.' She said repeated delays in negotiations have demoralized workers and harmed the community.'It's unfair to us, to our patients, and to the public we serve,' she Read: Amazon launches first Operational Kuiper satellites to compete with SpaceX's Starlink
