Santa Clara County SEIU 521 Contract: What You Need to Know
The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 521 represents over 20,000 public service workers in Santa Clara County. These workers include employees in the fields of healthcare, social services, and public works. Recently, the union has been negotiating a new contract with the county, and there are a few key points that workers and residents should be aware of.
Wages and Benefits
One of the main issues in the negotiations has been wages and benefits. SEIU 521 has been pushing for a 5% pay increase for workers, while the county has offered a 2% increase. Additionally, the union has been advocating for expanded health benefits for dependents and increased retirement benefits.
Workplace Safety
Another important issue for the union is workplace safety. Many SEIU 521 members work in jobs that can be dangerous, such as healthcare workers who are at risk of contracting infectious diseases. The union has been fighting for increased safety measures, including better personal protective equipment and more training.
Job Security
SEIU 521 is also concerned about job security for its members. In recent years, the county has outsourced some jobs to private companies, resulting in layoffs for public service workers. The union is advocating for language in the new contract that will protect jobs from being outsourced or eliminated.
Negotiating a Fair Contract
SEIU 521 members have been mobilizing to push for a fair contract. They have held rallies and spoken out at county board meetings to make their voices heard. The union argues that its members provide vital services to the community and deserve to be compensated and protected.
Residents of Santa Clara County should pay attention to the negotiations between SEIU 521 and the county, as the outcome will affect the quality of public services in the area. By advocating for fair wages and benefits, workplace safety, and job security, the union is fighting to ensure that workers can continue to provide essential services to the community.