Read the SLOCEA blog for news and updates on what’s happening with your local, independent labor union.
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…
Cultivating an Environment of Psychological Safety
In many workplaces, employees often feel hesitant to speak up, share their ideas, or admit mistakes. This environment stifles collaboration and breeds anxiety, creating a barrier to productivity and job satisfaction. Psychological safety, a concept introduced by…
Upcoming Health Care Committee Meeting
Every year in May and July, Human Resources staff meet with the Health Care Committee, made up of representatives from each of the County’s bargaining units. On July 9, 2024, the County will hold its second Health Care Committee meeting with the representatives and will be providing their 2025 Renewal Presentation, which should include renewal rates for January 2025…
The Crucial Role of Interactive Process Meetings in ADA Accommodations
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a cornerstone of workers' rights, ensuring that employees with disabilities (both temporary and permanent) receive reasonable accommodations to perform their jobs effectively. Labor unions play a pivotal role in advocating for these rights, particularly during the interactive process meeting—a collaborative effort between employers and employees to find reasonable accommodations….
Celebrating Pride Month: Honoring the Legacy of the LGBTQ+ and Labor Rights
As Pride Month rolls around, your first thoughts might not be of the labor movement or its connection to the LGBTQ+ community. While Pride is a time to celebrate and commemorate the rich history and culture of this community, it is also a time for action...
The Importance of Timely and Comprehensive Supervisory Training
Supervisors play a critical role in the County and Superior Court’s structure. They are responsible for managing teams, ensuring productivity, and maintaining a positive work environment. Effective supervisors act as the bridge between employees and management …