UFCW members across California, assisted by the Western States Council, won important victories during this year’s state legislative session. Last month, Governor Jerry Brown signed legislation guaranteeing workers up to three paid sick days a year.
The new law includes part-time and temporary workers, making it one of the strongest in the nation. Last week, Brown signed legislation banning single use plastic bags, the first law of its kind to be enacted. Finally, the Legislature passed and the Governor signed a law requiring California to publish a list of employers that are relying on taxpayers to subsidize their low wages. This is an important step in shining a light on corporations that force workers onto public assistance. All in all, it was fruitful and productive session for UFCW members in California who look forward to building on that momentum in 2015.