Solis Urges Continued Negotiations Amid SEIU 721 Strike and Budget Crisis

SEIU 721 Strike (Photo – SEIU 721)

Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Pro Tem and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis voiced support for union workers while calling for continued negotiations as SEIU 721 members take collective action amid looming financial challenges.

By News Desk

In a statement issued today, Solis acknowledged the vital role of County workers, praising their service during the COVID-19 pandemic, recent wildfires, and daily operations supporting the County’s most vulnerable residents. “Our workers are the backbone of Los Angeles County,” she said, while emphasizing respect for the union’s right to strike.

However, Solis also highlighted the County’s dire fiscal situation, noting a projected $1.3 billion budget reduction for the upcoming year. The financial strain stems from a $4 billion legal settlement related to childhood sexual assault claims under AB 218, disaster recovery costs, and declining property tax revenues. She also cited ongoing federal funding cuts originating from the T. Administration as additional pressure on essential services.

With critical staffing shortages—especially in hospital emergency rooms—Solis urged both SEIU leadership and County management to remain at the negotiating table. “We need to find a fair and sustainable solution,” she said, calling for honest dialogue and mutual compromise.

“This is a moment when we must all work together—not against one another,” Solis concluded.