Unions

Capitol

California lawmakers want to ban anti-union meetings at work — and Newsom agrees

A bill passed by the Legislature on its last day is a top priority for California labor unions, who say "captive audience" sessions intimidate workers. Business groups say the bill violates employers’ free speech rights.

By Jeanne Kuang • September 5, 2024

Justice

CHP officers land a $500 million contract as Gov. Gavin Newsom races to fill vacancies

California Highway Patrol officers received historically high raises in 2022 and 2023, but it continues to face a high vacancy rate of 16%.

By Nigel Duara • August 29, 2024

Commentary

Unions try to protect jobs in California with legislation to limit use of digital technology

Digital technology has transformed the workplace, but unions hope to protect jobs by limiting its use in grocery stores.

By Dan Walters • August 15, 2024

Housing

Billions more for California housing? Why some construction unions aren’t sold yet

California’s most unaffordable region is set to vote on a record-breaking affordable housing bond. Will state Democrats add a pro-union requirement to win over a powerful labor coalition?

By Ben Christopher • August 13, 2024

California Divide

A California court just granted an ag giant a win. It could jeopardize new farm union law

A judge has halted a union effort at the Wonderful Company, throwing into question a new state law designed to make it easier for agricultural workers to organize.

By Jeanne Kuang • July 19, 2024

Justice

Why California’s prison guard union is spending like never before on Gavin Newsom

The California Correctional Peace Officers Association faces a complicated political environment as inmate populations decline and calls to close prisons increase.

By Nigel Duara and Jeremia Kimelman • July 15, 2024

Politics

California is on track for another record year spent on lobbyists

More than $114 million was spent to lobby California state government in the first quarter of this year, about the same amount as last year when advocates set a record for spending on influence efforts.

By Jeremia Kimelman • May 21, 2024

Health

California promised a higher minimum wage for health care workers. Will Newsom delay it?

A higher minimum wage for health care workers that Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law is set to take effect in two weeks, but he is racing to delay it because of its potential impact on the state budget deficit.

By Ana B. Ibarra • May 17, 2024

Justice

California is spending more on fewer inmates. Why isn’t Newsom closing more prisons?

Gov. Gavin Newsom is recommending small cuts to the state prison system, avoiding the closures of additional facilities.

By Nigel Duara • May 11, 2024

Politics

Newsom wants California state employees back in the office. New ruling makes it harder to object

The Newsom administration wants state employees in the office at least twice a week. Many civil servants prefer working from home, and their unions are fighting to protect generous telework policies.

By Adam Ashton • May 6, 2024