US: Unionized workers plan to hold a three-day strike in San Jose, California Aug. 15-17

Event

Unionized city workers, including members of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers Local 21 (IFPTE Local 21) and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees' Federation, American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Local 101 (MEF-AFSCME Local 101), plan to hold a three-day strike in San Jose, California, Aug. 15-17 for pay. Union representatives and city leaders continue to have negotiations to avoid the labor action, but the strike will go ahead if no agreement is reached before Aug. 15.

The unions represent 4,500 San Jose's government workers, including public libraries, 911 emergency dispatchers, and airport workers. They are demanding an 18 percent salary increase over the next three years.

If the strike moves ahead, disruptions to multiple government services in San Jose are highly likely, including the closure of libraries and recreation centers, as well as summer programs for school-aged children. Flights to and from San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC) could be delayed or canceled, and construction projects paused. Striking workers are also likely to hold protests in several locations throughout the city, including outside City Hall.

Advice

Confirm appointments at government offices in advance, and allow additional time to reach your destination if operating in San Jose, California, Aug. 15-17. Heed instructions from authorities, and avoid protests if you encounter them.