During the public‑comment period at the board meeting on Aug. 5, more than a dozen In‑Home Supportive Services (IHSS) caregivers and representatives from SEIU 2015 told supervisors they had not received a wage proposal from the county’s bargaining partner and pressed for PPE, training, and immediate bargaining progress.

Union leaders said they filed unfair‑practice charges after months at the bargaining table without what they called meaningful economic engagement. SEIU 2015’s lead negotiator said the union submitted a full set of proposals, including wages, in April and had received no substantive response for more than three months. Several caregivers told the board they rely on food‑assistance programs and that PPE, training and a living wage were essential to continue serving elderly and disabled residents.

Why it matters: IHSS is the county’s largest low‑wage workforce and delivers personal care services that help thousands of seniors and people with disabilities remain in their homes rather than in institutions. Union speakers said cuts tied to the county budget crisis would disproportionately affect caregivers and the residents they serve.

County context: The caregiver testimony occurred during a broader discussion of federal funding shocks, curtailments and staffing impacts. County negotiators and PASC (the county’s bargaining representative for IHSS contracting) were directly addressed by speakers urging the board to ensure bargaining in good faith and to protect caregivers' wages and PPE provisions.

Action: The board received the public comment; the union indicated it has filed an unfair practice charge and will continue negotiations through allowed processes.