For the last 30 years, the Governor has authorized four hours of ITO for all state employees during the holidays. Historically, teachers at CDCR have received this benefit. However, recent notice of impact received from CDCR states that Unit 3 teachers are no longer eligible.
CDCR now claims teachers are excluded because they are “not scheduled to work” during that period (holiday break). Our team stressed that they are scheduled to work throughout the year, just not on holidays—like most state employees. When asked about the source of authority for this decision, the State could not identify where the decision originated—whether it’s CalHR, State Controller’s Office (SCO), or CDCR. SCO guidance conflicts with CDCR’s interpretation, creating inconsistent application across agencies.
CDCR said exclusion is required to comply with the Bargaining Unit 3 MOU (Article 25.4.3), which states teachers are not entitled to official holidays with pay. Our team argued the MOU does not prohibit teachers from receiving ITO, which is a separate benefit from paid holidays.
Teachers have received ITO for twenty years, taking it away feels arbitrary and punitive. Other BU 3 members, such as librarians, should receive ITO, causing internal inequity.
The BU 3 team expressed frustration and demoralization, noting they already receive fewer benefits than other state employees. Removing ITO is seen as “chipping away” at limited time-off benefits and damaging workforce morale. We learned that the State does not intend to retroactively remove time already granted but will not authorize it going forward starting November 2025.
Our position is any historical “mistake” in granting ITO should result in making all employees whole, not taking benefits away.
For any questions or concerns, contact your bargaining unit leaders at [email protected].
In Solidarity,
SEIU Local 1000, Bargaining Unit 3