100,000 California State Workers Unite to Demand Better Pay and Working Conditions

100,000 California State Workers Unite to Demand Better Pay and Working Conditions

On October 21, 2026, an estimated 100,000 workers, including cooks, custodians, nurses and office staff represented by three California state unions, reportedly joined forces in a historic demonstration to demand improved employment contracts.

Their demands include a 20% pay increase over three years, alongside fairer telework policies in opposition to Governor Gavin Newsom’s executive order requiring state employees to work from the office four days a week.

The workers are also pushing for better contract terms and improved working conditions, as they call on the state government to address their concerns.

Do you think a 20% salary increase over three years is a fair demand for these workers