US: Unionized workers suspend strike on Aug. 15 in San Jose, California, while negotiations continue to potentially avert strike Aug. 16-17 /update 1

Event

Unionized city workers who had announced a three-day strike Aug. 15-17 have agreed to suspend the labor action in San Jose, California, for 24 hours on Aug. 15. The decision to halt the strike for 24 hours came after union representatives and city leaders reached an agreement on Aug. 14. However, negotiations are continuing, and the strike will go ahead on Aug. 16-17 if no agreement is reached on Aug. 15. Union leaders say they will call off the strike action Aug. 16-17 if the city council formally approves the terms discussed in mediation.

Several unions would have participated in the strike, 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). 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 on Aug. 16-17, 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. 16-17. Heed instructions from authorities, and avoid protests if you encounter them.