If ratified, would put caregiver pay at $20.80/hr
San Mateo County, CA – This week, the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) providers of SEIU Local 2015, the nation’s largest long-term care union representing more than 450,000 caregivers across California, reached a tentative agreement for a new union contract with the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors.
The agreement, which will raise the standards for more than 7,500 providers in San Mateo County, includes a path to a $20.80/hr wage, expanded access to healthcare benefits, transportation reimbursements, and an investment in PPE.
Across the country roughly 10,000 people turn 65 every day. As this number of older adults and people with disabilities who require in-home care continues to grow in California, these higher standards will help counties to continue to attract more care providers to this workforce (and retain them).
“The hourly wage increasing by $1.99 makes a big difference for providers living in San Mateo County,” said IHSS Provider and bargaining team member Monica Bejarano. “The travel reimbursement was also an important benefit that we were able to maintain. It’s a very important program, especially for providers like me who use public transportation.”
Today’s announcement drew praise from SEIU Local 2015 leadership and marked a significant step forward in the Union’s statewide push for livable wages.
“As the number of people who require in-home care continues to grow, we need to invest in the infrastructure of care. Agreements like the one in San Mateo County help raise the bar for home care providers all over California,” said Arnulfo De La Cruz, President of SEIU Local 2015. “The bargaining team in San Mateo worked hard and this agreement shows the power of collective action in ensuring the livelihood of IHSS workers who provide essential care to older adults and people with disabilities.”
In the coming weeks, San Mateo IHSS providers will vote to approve the tentatively agreed upon union contract. The Board of Supervisors will then vote during their meeting on March 12, 2024. The contract will take effect upon successful approval by both parties.
In late January, San Mateo County IHSS providers spoke at a Board of Supervisors meeting, explaining the need for a stronger contract with higher wages. Their stories are similar to those of home care providers throughout California, and they hope the agreement in San Mateo County will inspire other Boards of Supervisors to invest in this critical program. Watch testimonies here: https://youtu.be/L8Ux_E-KGA0
Since January 2020, SEIU Local 2015 has worked with counties and nursing homes across California to win more than 90 contracts, securing better workplace protections, improved wages and benefits, and a voice in the care its members provide. These investments in IHSS working conditions will help strengthen the infrastructure of care to help attract and retain caregivers.
To learn more about SEIU Local 2015 visit www.SEIU2015.org or on social media @SEIU2015.