UC Workers Launch Open-Ended Strike

0:00Union leaders for nearly 37,500 workers at University of California Medical Centers and campuses just announced in, open-ended strike kicking off May 14. This marks the first time this massive AFSCME union has gone that route in UC history, covering folks like custodians, nurses' aides, and techs' hooves. Contracts expired last year. UC pushed back hard, saying they bummed their offer to 32.3% total pay growth since talk started in January, plus A. $1,000 ratification bonus and better longevity pay. They argue its solid progress addressing wages, health costs, and long-term sustainability making a full strike unnecessary. Workers and union reps are fired up, claiming UC's deals lag behind inflation, especially for the lowest paid and ignore the housing crunch forcing. Some to sleep in cars or shelters. They filed unfair labor practice charges, accusing UC of dodging bargaining and imposing cuts on health care and other terms.

1:02Talks have dragged on after a two-day strike last November, while other big unions like nurses and tech pros already inked deals with $28,000 to $30% raises. Most strikers hail from southern spots like Los Angeles, Irvine, and San Diego campuses, with layoffs still stinging at places like UCI Health and no deal in sight. This could shake up patient care and operations big time, eyes stay glued, as May 14, looms. Local news powered by AI. This is California News Today.