Representation Doesn’t Pause Between Contracts

As we begin a new year, many SLOCEA members are entering 2026 with an important source of stability already in place: employment contracts that clearly define wages, benefits, and working conditions. With agreements in effect for the majority of represented units, the focus shifts away from negotiations and toward ensuring those contracts are understood, respected, and applied consistently in the workplace.

While bargaining often receives the most attention, much of the union’s work takes place between contracts. This is the period when contractual rights are put into practice and when representation shows up in day-to-day ways that directly affect members’ working lives.

Representation Happens Between Negotiations

Union work does not slow down once a contract is ratified. Between bargaining cycles, SLOCEA’s focus is on enforcement, advocacy, and support. Members reach out with questions or concerns related to discipline, leave usage, classification issues, policy changes, and workplace disputes. In some cases, the role of the union is to provide clarification or guidance. In others, it involves advocating directly on behalf of a member. In 2025, SLOCEA opened 93 cases wherein labor representatives intervened on behalf of a member with the County. Types of cases range from ADA Accommodations to Disciplinary Issues and everything in between. 

This work is often individualized and happens behind the scenes, but it plays a critical role in maintaining fairness and consistency. It also allows SLOCEA to identify patterns and address issues before they escalate, helping to protect the integrity of the contract and the working conditions it establishes.

Ensuring the Contract Works as Intended

A contract is only effective if it is implemented properly. Between negotiations, SLOCEA works with members to help them understand how contract provisions apply in real-world situations—from leave and premium pay to scheduling and benefit protections.

Members are encouraged to contact SLOCEA whenever something feels unclear or inconsistent. Reaching out early often makes it easier to resolve concerns and prevents misunderstandings from becoming larger issues. Asking questions or seeking clarification is not a disruption; it is an essential part of ensuring that contractual rights are meaningful and enforceable.

Member Programs That Provide Direct Support

In addition to workplace representation, SLOCEA administers several member programs designed to provide direct, tangible support during important moments in members’ lives. These programs are an important part of the Association’s work between contracts and reflect a commitment to supporting members beyond the workplace.

SLOCEA’s Survivors Endowment Grant and Personal Crisis Grant provide financial assistance during times of loss or unexpected hardship. These programs require careful administration to ensure requests are handled with sensitivity, confidentiality, and fairness. The SLOCEA Academic Scholarship Program supports members and their families as they pursue educational goals, while the Summer Childcare Program, facilitated by SLOCEA and funded by the County, helps offset childcare costs during the summer months, a meaningful benefit for working families.

Each of these programs requires significant time to administer, including reviewing applications, verifying eligibility, and ensuring funds are distributed responsibly. While this work is not always visible, the impact is direct and meaningful for the members who rely on these programs. More information about these programs is available at www.slocea.org.

SLOCEA is also partnering with Association Member Benefits Advisors (AMBA) in early 2026, to offer our members access to group supplemental insurance plans, webinars, resources and discount programs.

Limited Bargaining in 2026

While most SLOCEA-represented units are mid-contract, there are two bargaining units that will return to the negotiating table in 2026.

SLOCEA will be bargaining on behalf of members at the Los Osos Community Services District, where the current contract expires on June 30, 2026. We anticipate beginning negotiations early this year. In addition, SLOCEA will return to the table later in 2026 for members at the Superior Court. Their current agreement is a one-year contract and is set to expire on September 30, 2026.

Stability in a Changing Environment

Although contracts provide predictability, workplace conditions continue to evolve. Policy updates, operational changes, and budget considerations can all affect employees, even mid-contract. SLOCEA remains attentive to these developments and works to ensure that changes are consistent with existing agreements and do not undermine member rights.

This ongoing attention is a key part of representation. It reflects a commitment not only to responding when problems arise, but also to maintaining awareness and advocating for members as circumstances change.

Moving Forward Together

As the year begins, SLOCEA remains committed to clear communication, accessible support, and consistent advocacy. Members are encouraged to reach out with questions or concerns—whether they are seeking clarification, assistance with a workplace issue, or information about programs or leadership opportunities. Early communication allows for more effective problem-solving and better outcomes.

Representation does not pause between contracts. It continues through daily advocacy, education, program administration, and member engagement. As we move into the new year, SLOCEA remains focused on ensuring that existing agreements are honored and that members feel informed, supported, and confident in the representation they receive.

Emily Landis, Executive Director