Our Union’s Bargaining Unit 15, representing Statewide CSC (Correctional Supervising Cook) Food Services, recently met with CalHR, CDCR, and CCHCS to address various issues affecting our operations statewide. We raised concerns on the following topics:
- Standardized Staffing
- Safety
- Training and Certification
- Vacation Bid Issues
“It was my first time at the table, I felt confident that the state was listening to what we were saying. They did mention that they want to implement some of the ideas we brought to the table, but the budget will not allow it at this time.” – Monica Munguia, Correctional Supervising Cook
Safety Concerns with Standardized Staffing
We highlighted the safety issues arising from the recent changes to standardized staffing. Cooks are working in Central Kitchen with incarcerated individuals without custody. Additionally, CSCs’ days off are not aligning with the Officers’ days off. This issue is not widespread but has been noted at North Kern, where holidays were removed from CSCs, leading to production on these days. This change has also made it difficult to access necessary knives for work. The state is investigating this and will provide feedback on the reasons behind these changes, which may stem from communication issues. Remember, all health and safety concerns should be addressed with the warden, and you should notify your health and safety committee of any issues.
Training and Certification
We requested more job-specific training on the IST portal that goes beyond the court-ordered block training required by law. The state supports implementing LMS training for all CSC positions. In some institutions, incarcerated individuals are making ServSafe certification available, which helps in getting higher qualified workers in the kitchen and incentivizes them to gain a certificate that will aid them post-release. While the state supports making this available to CSCs statewide, budget constraints currently prevent this.
Professional Development Opportunities
The state suggested joining ACFSA (Association Correctional Food Services Affiliations) for additional training and certifications that can enhance your resume. Some dues may be reimbursed, but approval for reimbursement should be obtained beforehand, as the language states “may.”
Vacation Bid Issues
Vacation denials have been a long-standing issue. We reiterated our concerns at the last JLMC meeting in November and pressed the state for the ability to cash out time or increase the maximum hours of 640 currently allowed. Although the state supports our request, budget constraints currently prevent the cash out.
Our vacation relief posts have always had dedicated days off and specific AM or PM shifts, not both. We have won grievances in the past, and this should not happen. Local management is blaming it on the new matrix. The state will investigate and provide feedback regarding the daily relief coverage and schedule changes. If this happens to you, please contact the MRC at 866-471-7348 to report and inform your Union Representative.
Meet Your CSC JLMC Team
To learn more about your CSC JLMC, led by Garth Underwood, along with Eric Murray, Francis Vierra, Kevin Quaife, Pete Garza, and Monica Munguia, please visit SEIU 1000 Unit 15. Our next meeting is scheduled for May 2025.