GARDENA – After receiving concerns from Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Licensing Registration Examiners (LREs) about conducting drive tests in non-air-conditioned vehicles on excessive heat days in Southern California, California Organization of Licensing Registration Examiners (COLRE) President Enrique Razo took action.

“We listened to our union members and thank them for bringing their concerns to our attention,” said Razo.  “We, as union representatives, have the resources and contacts to conduct productive conversations with the appropriate people and come to solutions that keep employee-safety in mind.”

Razo, with the assistance of California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) Senior Counsel Jim Vitko, reached out to DMV representatives and the LREs with concerns.  On Friday, September 9, 2022, COLRE President Razo met with LREs at the Gardena DMV Office to further discuss their excessive heat-related concerns.

“Our valued union members were conducting drive tests in extreme heat.  They were concerned that their particular office was excluded from any reprieve from the 100-plus degree heat and humidity, while other offices temporarily halted drive tests.  They felt there was a lack of communication in addressing their concerns and felt strongly that this was a matter that could adversely affect their health.  I’m happy to say, shortly after my visit, and communication by CSLEA Senior Counsel Jim Vitko, drive tests that afternoon were suspended due to the heat,” said Razo.

“The safety and well-being of our members as they provide vital services to the State is always paramount with us,” said Vitko.  “COLRE and CSLEA continue to work with DMV labor relations to make health and safety a top priority, while our LRE-professionals continue their very important work of keeping our roadways safe.”