CSLEA/CARII is sending this update to inform you of the meetings we’ve had with CSLB and DCA management regarding the Telework agreements.  As you know CSLEA/CARII was notified on December 7, 2022, of CSLB’s intent to reduce Telework days for Investigators (Inv) and Special Investigators (SI) in some of the units (approximately 86 positions), from four days a week to two days a week. The scheduled implementation date was set to start on January 3, 2023.

 

At CSLEA/CARII’s request, a meeting was held with CSLB management and DCA Labor Relations on December 30, 2022.  In attendance was CARII President Tom Ineichen, CARII Board Member Virna Valdivia, along with CSLEA Senior Counsels Andrea Perez and Jim Vitko.  Management explained that the primary motivating factor for changes to the Telework program was a marked increase in the number of aged cases and lack of time working in the field. Their belief being that fewer Telework days would result in additional field time and allow additional time for Invs & SIs to consult with supervisors and each other on difficult cases.  CSLEA/CARII argued that there was no nexus between Telework and aged cases.

 

After a protracted discussion, it was clear that CSLB was not going to support 4-Telework days. However, after much work, both sides agreed to a compromise.  As a result, effective January 17, 2023, Invs & SIs will be allowed three Telework days per week.  The two remaining days will be split between a field day and an office day.  The parties agreed that this was fair as it limits the impact on Invs & SIs and will allow for additional time in the field.  Additionally, CSLB management agreed that those employees who had their Telework “suspended” without notice was contrary to the provisions of the MOU (contract) and reinstated Telework immediately.  Employees are still subject to restrictions/elimination of Telework based on lack of production or based on operational needs but are entitled to 30-days’ notice before changes can take effect.

 

We are grateful to CSLB management for working with us on a very difficult issue and hope to continue to meet and discuss issues of importance to everyone.  Compromise is not always a perfect solution and although we believe the issues for a resolution to the case aging and caseloads needs more work and analysis, we believe for now this was a win/win for everyone.

 

Thank you to all who provided input and assistance in preparation of the meeting and in the continued support of each other and these issues.

 

In Solidarity,

 

Tom Ineichen,

CSLEA Unit B VP

CARII President