L.A. County Cites Financial Constraints for Denying Raises to Workers Facing Upcoming Strike

More than 55,000 unionized workers in Los Angeles County are preparing to strike Monday evening, as officials claim there are insufficient funds to meet their demands. Members of the Service Employees International Union Local 721, including public works employees, library staff, and mental health professionals, intend to walk off the job for 48 hours beginning at 7 p.m.

The union accuses county representatives of not engaging in fair negotiation for a new labor contract. During a rally, a union leader expressed frustration, stating that the county’s proposal offered no cost-of-living increase.

Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, acknowledged the challenges posed by inflation but maintained that the county could not afford to grant such increases due to a significant budget deficit. This fiscal shortfall has been exacerbated by unexpected expenses tied to the Eaton and Palisades Fires, as well as a costly settlement of $4 billion related to historical youth sexual abuse claims.

Barger noted the impact of these expenditures, emphasizing, “Even the union knows that $4 billion has compromised our ability to negotiate.” The county must ensure that any financial commitments made are sustainable. The Chief Executive Office of LA County reiterated these points, referring to “unprecedented stresses,” including potential substantial losses in federal funding.

The county hopes that the union will consider fair counter-proposals. The planned strike is expected to disrupt vital services, potentially affecting emergency healthcare, firefighting, and library operations.

Some non-urgent clinics will close, certain beach restrooms may be unavailable, and delays in services from the medical examiner office are anticipated.