University of California Statement on AFSCME Negotiations and Planned Strike

The University of California deeply values the vital contributions of our AFSCME-represented employees, who provide essential services across our hospitals, campuses, and communities. In July, after 16 months of good-faith negotiations and completion of all state-required impasse procedures, UC implemented key terms from its last, best, and final offer to ensure these employees receive meaningful and immediate pay and benefit increases. Under the terms implemented, all AFSCME-represented employees now earn at least $25 an hour, effective July 2025 and receive up to $1,500 per year in health care premium credits.

Previously, UC had made significant wage increase proposals totaling 28% over five years, including across-the-board and step increases.

Over the past month, UC has worked around the clock to accelerate contract negotiations with several other labor partners, successfully reaching fair agreements that reflect shared commitment and engagement. These outcomes show that UC can and has quickly closed deals when both parties actively participate in solutions-oriented bargaining.

Despite UC's continued outreach, AFSCME has not presented any substantive counterproposals since April 2025. Absent AFSCME's engagement, the University cannot engage in meaningful negotiations for this critical workforce. Nonetheless, we remain hopeful and committed to working towards a fair and sustainable agreement that supports our employees and advances the University's mission of service, education, and research.

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