California’s largest state employee union is preparing to strike Wednesday, October 21, 2026, potentially disrupting services at the DMV, unemployment offices and state parks.
SEIU Local 1000 represents roughly 100,000 government workers, with tens of thousands expected to walk off the job Wednesday.
The union is demanding higher pay, better healthcare benefits and more flexibility to work from home.
And here’s the twist.
California’s Public Employment Relations Board found Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration failed to bargain in good faith.
The administration disputes the union’s accusations and says it’s willing to negotiate.
DMV offices could close early, while unemployment and disability benefit services could face delays.
The walkout would be the union’s first statewide strike in 44 years.
