LA County workers could walk off job in October after authorizing strike

Tens of thousands of Los Angeles County's service workers could walk off the job in October if they're unable to hammer out a contract with county officials. 

Service Workers International Union members voted to authorize a strike starting on Oct. 10 if progress on their contract negotiations aren't made by that time, meaning that more than 55,000 workers could walk off the job. The strike would impact the vast spectrum of departments that include hospital workers, public works and even the coroner's office. 

Impassioned speeches from angry union leaders took to the stage on Tuesday to accuse county leaders of violating some parts of their current contract and for dragging their feet when it comes to negotiating a new one. 

In response to SEIU's rally and protest, Los Angeles County leaders shared a statement with KCAL News, stating that discussions haven't yet started and that making strike threats is counterproductive to the goal they want to ultimately reach. f

"The County is not yet at the bargaining table with SEIU 721, and we are disappointed that labor has chosen to preemptively and unnecessarily engage in heated rhetoric including unfounded accusations and threats of an unwarranted strike that would put our most vulnerable County residents at risk," the statement said in part.

Union workers approved their current contract two years ago, receiving a 12% raise, along with new healthcare and childcare benefits. That deal doesn't expire for 10 more months.