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2025 LA County ULP Strike Frequently Asked Questions

Why are we having a ULP strike?

To protest the County’s Unfair Labor Practices. The County has broken labor laws 42 times and counting! We need to send a strong message to the Chief Executive Officer that employees are not willing to put up with it anymore. The County needs to stop its unfair labor practice campaign against frontline workers.

What is the date of the ULP strike?

A ULP strike has not been called yet. Members have almost unanimously – by 99% — authorized the union to call for a strike. If a strike is called, the union will provide a 10-day notice to the membership and the county.

Why would we give LA County a 10-day notice for the strike?

Under the law we are not even obligated to give LA County a 1-day notice. However, our members understand the critical government services they provide for our communities. In order to make sure safety net services continue to function at a minimum level, we provide LA County a 10-day notice.

How long will the ULP strike be?

The length of the ULP strike will be included in the 10-day notice.

Can I go on a ULP strike if I am on probation?

We are advising that you do not participate in the strike, but there are other ways you can support, like wearing purple or stickering up on action days.

Can I go on a ULP strike if I am on transfer probation?

Yes.

I’m scared about going out on strike. Can I get in trouble?

Any Unfair Labor Practice strike is legally protected activity.

If management moves to retaliate against you for participating in the strike or any union actions leading up to the strike they would be willfully breaking labor law and SEIU 721 legal counsel would take your case.

Is it true that I cannot put up SEIU signage or wear SEIU apparel at work?

No, this is protected activity. Apparel and signage that does not violate current work uniform and posting policies is protected. For example, if you are currently allowed to post pictures of your family in your cubicle you can also post SEIU 721/ULP Strike signage. If you are currently allowed to wear “I love Disneyland” pins, stickers, keychains you can do the same with apparel that is SEIU 721 branded. If you are told that you cannot put up SEIU signage or wear SEIU apparel, please contact Member Connection at (877) 721-4YOU.

Will the union be providing financial assistance in the event of a ULP strike?

Financial assistance is not considered unless the strike is at least 7 days.

Can I use sick time to go on a ULP strike?

No. You will have no legal protection if you call in sick and participate in the strike.

Can I submit vacation time to go on a ULP strike?

No, striking is a protected activity.

What if I already have approved vacation time for that day?

If you already have time off approved, it stands. If you are told otherwise, please contact Member Connection at (877) 721-4YOU.

I am on maternity leave, can I participate?

Congratulations! One way to support is to reach out to your co-workers to let them know that you are supporting them going on strike.

What If I Provide Direct Patient Care? 

You are to complete your original shift as scheduled. You will go through your chain of command to relieve your duties. You will NOT be abandoning your patient, as the County should be providing someone to relieve you. If they claim there is no one to relieve you, you must stay on shift but assertively ask repeatedly when you will be relieved.

Will going on a ULP strike impact my benefits?

No. You and your family will still maintain your medical, dental, and other benefits.

Can I be replaced with temps if I participate in the ULP strike?

This is a protected strike – you cannot be permanently replaced.

What happens next?

To stay up to date with the latest information, text “SEIU” to 721721.