Read the SLOCEA blog for news and updates on what’s happening with your local, independent labor union.
SLOCEA Reaches Tentative Side Letter Agreements with the County
In addition to our core contract negotiations, SLOCEA regularly engages with the County, the Courts, and the CSD to address workplace issues that fall outside the terms of our main agreements. SLOCEA recently reached tentative agreements for two side letters with the County…
The Importance of Being Informed During Negotiations
As we reported last month, SLOCEA is in contract negotiations with the County for successor agreements as the contracts for the County bargaining units that SLOCEA represents expire on June 30, 2025… learn more about negotiation terms and procedures in this article from Senior Labor Rep, Theresa Schultz.
Standing in Solidarity: LGBTQ+ Rights are Workers’ Rights
June is Pride Month — a time to honor the resilience, courage, and contributions of LGBTQ+ people throughout history and in our present-day communities. It’s also a moment to reflect on the ongoing struggles for justice and equality — especially in the workplace…
Standing With Our Members During County Layoffs
As many of you know, the County of San Luis Obispo is facing a budget shortfall for the next fiscal year, resulting in plans to eliminate programs and lay off employees across various departments. While this is an extraordinarily difficult time for affected employees and their families, SLOCEA remains committed to standing by our members…
César Chávez, California Labor Leader: A Legacy of Justice and Relevance in Today’s Labor Movement
César Chávez remains one of the most influential figures in the American labor movement. Born on March 31, 1927, Chávez dedicated his life to fighting for the rights and dignity of farmworkers who faced oppressive working conditions…
Honoring Women in the Workplace on International Women’s Day
This March, as we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize the invaluable contributions of women in every industry, workplace, and union across the country…
SLOCEA Members Step Into New Leadership Roles
The full benefit of union membership can only be realized through active involvement. Three SLOCEA members stepped forward to get more involved and at the February 19th SLOCEA Board of Directors meeting they were appointed to serve in leadership positions. We are pleased to introduce you to Vincent, Crystal and Ben!
California Advances Worker Protections with AB 2123 and SB 1090
California has long been a leader in progressive labor policies, and the recent enactment of Assembly Bill 2123 (AB 2123) and Senate Bill 1090 (SB 1090) further cements its commitment to supporting workers during critical moments in their lives…
More Preparations for MOU Negotiations
The contracts for the County’s Public Services, Supervisory, Clerical and Trades units will be expiring on June 30, 2025. In preparation for the upcoming negotiations for successor agreements, SLOCEA is seeking assistance from our members who are in one of the benchmark classifications…
How to Be Involved and Stay Informed During Contract Negotiations
Staying involved and informed about what’s going on with your labor union is always important, but it is especially vital during contract negotiations. As many of you know, SLOCEA will be entering into contract negotiations for our County-represented units this spring. During negotiations, our members’ active engagement…
Finding a Remedy through the Grievance Process
A grievance is a formalized, written complaint lodged by an employee against their employer if the employee has been negatively affected and has not been successful in remedying the problem through informal measures...
Celebrating Progress, Preparing for the Future
As the year comes to an end, it’s a natural time to reflect on what we’ve achieved together and consider what lies ahead. For SLOCEA, 2024 was a year of progress and collaboration, thanks to the commitment and engagement of our members…
Maximizing Your Leave Balances
In preparations for 2025 negotiations with County’s Big Unit and Trades, we have been evaluating the benefits in the MOUs from our six bargaining units. Check out these handy charts showing current vacation and sick leave benefits and the differences between the County, the Superior Court and the Los Osos Community Services District (CSD).
Recognizing and Preventing Workplace Burnout
Workplace burnout has become a growing concern in many industries, especially as modern work cultures increasingly blur the boundaries between professional and personal life. Frequently characterized by chronic stress, exhaustion, and disengagement, burnout can…
Hostile Work Environments: Recognize, Report & Protect
Most people have heard the term “hostile work environment”, but few are aware of the term’s definition under the law. People who are feeling uncomfortable or unhappy at work might wonder if they’re experiencing a hostile work environment, but it's important to differentiate between genuine hostile work conditions and other challenging workplace situations...
Be an Involved SLOCEA Member
SLOCEA is only as strong as the involvement and engagement of our members. While union membership provides numerous benefits, getting involved as an active member takes these advantages to the next level...
Labor Day’s Historical Roots and Modern Significance
Labor Day, celebrated annually on the first Monday in September, stands as a tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers. Its roots stretch back to the late 19th century, a period marked by intense industrialization and labor unrest...
Politics at Work as a Public Employee
The upcoming presidential election is foremost in the minds of many. Navigating political activities as public employees requires a clear understanding of the legal boundaries set by state and federal laws. One of the most important points to remember is that while you have the right as a public employee to engage in political activities, there are strict prohibitions ...
The Right to Display Non-Permanent Union Insignia on Work Vehicles
California public employees have long enjoyed the right to display union insignia and messages regarding working conditions in the workplace. Absent special circumstances, restrictions on the display of union insignia and messages unlawfully interfere with employees’ broad right to participate in the activities of ....
Important Updates to SLOCEA Bylaws: Negotiating Teams
SLOCEA is pleased to inform our members about the recent updates to our bylaws, specifically focusing on the section governing our Negotiating Committee. These changes aim to enhance clarity, improve representation, and streamline our collective bargaining process…