The County of Sacramento continues to mislead our membership with its recent proposal to the 005-bargaining unit, presenting it as if it is fair. In reality, this proposal is a direct attack on the numerous protections that UPE and other labor organizations have defended for over 100 years.
Since 2006, we have successfully maintained our current healthcare language. However, with the County’s proposal, they would gain the ability to unilaterally change plans, rates, and copayment amounts.
In addition to healthcare, the County also seeks to eliminate UPE’s right to meet and confer on 71-J contracts. These are contracts that the County uses to outsource labor for lower costs rather than hiring more qualified County workers. Finally, the County wants to take away our fundamental right to strike, which has been a cornerstone of labor organizations for over a century. We are determined to protect our right to strike against the County’s latest offer.
The bottom line is that UPE is advocating for a fair and livable wage for all employees. The County’s last offer fails to achieve this goal, as its pay increases benefit only a small number of members, while the concessions negatively impact everyone. This is why your Bargaining Team rejected the offer and issued a strike notice.
For the County to think that our members would sympathize with them after receiving these proposals is both insulting and disrespectful to their intelligence. UPE members stand united, knowing that together we are strong!
