Read the SLOCEA blog for news and updates on what’s happening with your local, independent labor union.
When Washington Shuts Down, California Steps Up
When it comes to protecting workers’ rights to organize, bargain collectively, or challenge unfair treatment, California has just taken a big step forward. In September, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 288 (AB 288) into law, giving the state a new tool…
Why We Need More Stewards in the Workplace
As SLOCEA’s Senior Labor Representative, I serve as the staff liaison over the Steward Committee, a very important committee of members that plays a vital role in the union. Stewards are the bridge between members and SLOCEA staff, and they are essential in keeping SLOCEA strong, visible, and effective in departments and workplaces throughout the County…
Standing Strong Together: The Importance of Solidarity in Negotiations
As we move further into contract negotiations, one truth remains clear: our greatest strength is our unity. The County and the Courts come to the bargaining table with a well-defined strategy, an abundance of resources, and a clear set of goals. The only way we can match that strength and ensure that the priorities of our members are respected is by presenting a unified front…
Contract Negotiations: How County and Court Workers Keep SLO County Moving Forward
Every day, the employees of San Luis Obispo County and the Superior Court show up to do the work that keeps our community running. From public health to public safety, airports to roads, social services to environmental protection—our members provide the backbone of government services that touch every single resident of San Luis Obispo County and the Court system. Yet they rarely see the mounting challenges County and Court employees face behind the scenes…
Introducing Our Newest SLOCEA Team Member
SLOCEA is proud to welcome our newest Labor Representative, Jennifer Tate, whose career path, passion for advocacy, and commitment to helping others make her a wonderful addition to our team…
What Happens When Bargaining Reaches Impasse?
While SLOCEA and the County are still actively engaged in good-faith bargaining, given the County’s recent economic proposal at the table, there have been many questions from members regarding what happens next, if we don’t reach an agreement…
From Temporary Hire to Trusted Advocate - Staff Spotlight
When Brooke Daphne accepted a temporary position here at the SLOCEA office in October 2018 -- tasked with the major project of digitizing years’ worth of hard-copy membership forms, beneficiary documents, and case files -- she had no idea she was stepping into what would become a career rooted in purpose, advocacy, and transformation…
Understanding the Grievance Process
As a labor union, one of the important roles we play is advocating for the employees that we represent in complaints, pre-grievances and ultimately sometimes formal grievances…
SLOCEA Contract Negotiations Update
As you are all aware, SLOCEA is in the midst of contract negotiations for successor agreements for the following County bargaining units (BU): Public Services BU 01, Supervisory BU 05, and Clerical BU 13, which make up the Big Unit, and Trades, Crafts and Services (BU 02). The contracts expired June 30, 2025…
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...