In Los Angeles County, a two-day strike involving 55,000 unionized public employees, represented by SEIU Local 721, has caused significant disruptions across essential services such as hospitals, libraries, and maintenance operations, highlighting the severe budgetary challenges the county faces. The strike arises amid stalled contract negotiations with the county, which is grappling with financial strains including a $4 billion sex abuse settlement and wildfire-related costs nearing $2 billion. County officials, like Chief Executive Fesia Davenport, express concern over the human impact, particularly on healthcare services for vulnerable populations, while maintaining that they have been negotiating with the union frequently and have offered raises and bonuses. The city and county leaders are seeking state assistance to manage a nearly $1 billion shortfall, as their financial stability is further threatened by the downgrading of the city's credit rating due to high personnel costs. The union's allegations of negotiation stalling and labor law violations underscore the tension in these negotiations, exacerbated by comparisons to the generous pay raises granted last year to other city unions, including police and firefighters.

The strike involves 55,000 members of SEIU Local 721, affecting services such as public hospitals, libraries, and maintenance crews, with ambulances being diverted and libraries closing due to lack of staff.

Los Angeles County is negotiating amidst significant financial challenges, including a $4 billion settlement related to sex abuse claims and projected wildfire costs nearing $2 billion, compounded by federal funding threats.

County Chief Executive Fesia Davenport voiced concerns about the strike's impact on healthcare for vulnerable populations, as ambulances have been diverted and mobile therapy units face disruptions.

Negotiations have been frequent, with the county offering cost-of-living raises and bonuses, but dissatisfaction persists partly due to last year's city pay raises for politically powerful unions, such as police and firefighters.

The city's credit rating was recently downgraded, which could increase borrowing costs for the county, complicating efforts to finance the sex abuse settlement through bonds.

Mayor Karen Bass and other city officials have sought state legislative assistance to address a projected nearly $1 billion shortfall, warning of potential layoffs if aid is not secured.

Union leaders accuse the county of stalling negotiations and violating labor laws, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of this strike, which includes all local members for the first time.