July 30, 2026
Many members have asked what happens now that our Contract expired 30 days ago. The answer is simple: bargaining continues.
Our bargaining team is still at the table, but the State is refusing to bargain fairly. That’s why last week SEIU Local 1000 filed another Unfair Practice Charge alleging the State failed to bargain fairly over wages, benefits and working conditions. Our bargaining team continues to hold the line on the proposals state workers deserve, including a 20% General Salary Increase over three years: 7% in 2026, 7% in 2027, and 6% in 2028. While negotiations continue at the table, we’re also using every available legal tool to hold the State accountable for failing to bargain in good faith.
One thing that’s unique about bargaining for California state workers is that our Contract doesn’t just get negotiated with the State. It also has to be approved by the California Legislature before it can take effect.
The Legislature returns on August 3 and adjourns for the year on August 30. If the State chooses to bargain fairly, there’s still time for the Legislature to approve a new Contract this year. But if the State continues rejecting our proposals and refusing to bargain fairly, our bargaining team will not agree to a Contract. Bargaining will continue beyond August 30, legislative approval would move to the 2027 legislative session, and we’ll keep fighting until the State comes to the table ready to negotiate a fair agreement.
We’ll continue sharing bargaining updates whenever there are meaningful developments from the bargaining table. Until then, thank you for continuing to organize your coworkers, build our power and take collective action as we fight for the contract state workers deserve. Be sure to sign up for upcoming actions using the links below.