PPOA President
Lieutenant, LASD
sjohnson@ppoa.com
I want to express my deepest appreciation and heartfelt gratitude for the trust you’ve placed in PPOA. I am truly thankful for the hard work, dedication and resilience you display every day in your respective units. We are privileged and honored to represent your interests.
The quality of work each of you produces is unparalleled, and I am beyond grateful to advocate for and protect your rights. With our experienced legal team and seasoned labor representatives, we are committed to ensuring you receive the high-quality representation and the unwavering support you deserve.
Clarifying the Landscape of Unions and Their Recognition
It’s important to clarify the distinctions between various organizations and their official status. Unlike PPOA and ALADS, some organizations may seem like legitimate unions, but they are not recognized as official bargaining entities by the Los Angeles County Employee Relations Commission (ERCOM). Established by Employee Relations Ordinance #9646 in 1969, ERCOM is the body that regulates labor relations in Los Angeles County, granting unions like PPOA the bargaining power necessary to safeguard your rights.
Certified organizations are unions with recognized bargaining authority. These unions represent county employees in critical areas such as grievances, disciplinary actions and contract negotiations (memorandum of understanding, or MOU). Registered organizations, in contrast, are interest-based, enhancing employee–employer relationships and providing career development and other activities for county employees who are members of these organizations.
National and State Labor Rights Update: The Fight for Collective Bargaining
On February 15, Reuters reported that after weeks of protests, Utah signed a bill banning collective bargaining for teachers, police officers, firefighters and other public employees. This bill, signed by Governor Spencer Cox, has sparked outrage among unions, who are determined to challenge this decision. This development highlights the critical importance of protecting collective bargaining rights, as labor laws for public employees vary significantly from state to state.
While federal law safeguards collective bargaining rights for private-sector workers, state governments determine the labor laws for public employees. While some states offer strong protections, others impose restrictions on who can unionize. Only North Carolina and South Carolina have outright banned collective bargaining for public employees. This battle emphasizes the need for vigilance in defending the rights of our members at both the state and federal levels.
We are all aware of the current federal administration’s push to reduce the size of the federal workforce, aiming to trim waste and address bloated salaries. Although this is primarily focused on the federal level, it could set a precedent that influences state and local labor relations. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) could play a significant role in shaping public-sector labor laws, and we must remain alert to any developments that might undermine our bargaining power.
In California, the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) oversees collective bargaining statutes for public employees. As we monitor the trajectory of federal and state labor policies, we must continue safeguarding our rights, especially those governed by the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act (MMBA). The MMBA ensures that recognized employee organizations like PPOA are entitled to represent our members in negotiations with public agencies, including those affecting your working conditions.
Legal Updates, Legislative Achievements and Recent Wins for PPOA Members
PPOA recently filed unfair labor practice claims against the County, particularly concerning the actions of the Office of the Inspector General and the impact on our members’ procedural rights during interviews. We will keep you updated on the outcomes of these important legal proceedings.
I’m proud to announce that we’ve made significant strides with the passage of the federal Social Security Fairness Act, which protects our retirement income. This victory was largely made possible due to the influence of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) at both the state and national levels. The passing of H.R. 82, which was signed into law by President Biden, was a true bipartisan effort. President Trump’s efforts to sway Republican senators, who initially opposed the bill, were crucial in its successful passage. This is a clear reminder of the power and importance of cultivating strong relationships with elected officials who impact our policies, salaries and contracts.
As sergeant-at-arms for the California FOP, I am committed to ensuring PPOA’s voice is heard in both state and federal conversations that directly affect us. With the new legislative cycle in California underway, we will work alongside our lobbyists and fellow unions to draft legislation that defends your privacy, procedural rights and other critical concerns surrounding POST and other vital issues.
Leadership Updates and Transitions
I’d like to take a moment to welcome and acknowledge our new PPOA Board members who have recently begun their two-year terms: Roel Garcia, Joe Walker, Jim Schallert and Rob Weber. Additionally, our Executive Board has been selected and includes the following officers: First Vice President Jay Chapman, Second Vice President Joe Walker, Secretary Chris Lee and Treasurer Joyce Kato.
I would also like to personally thank Custody Assistant Tony Coleman for his outstanding service as a former PPOA director for the past eight years, including his leadership as second vice president. Tony’s dedication to our organization has been immeasurable. His seat will be filled by Custody Assistant Melissa Rodriguez, who brings a fresh perspective, drive and a commitment to our mission. We are excited to welcome Melissa to this important role!
Looking Ahead: Embracing Challenges and Opportunities
As we face the unique challenges of our profession, we also recognize the opportunities for growth and improvement that come with them. Let’s remain vigilant and committed to supporting one another. I encourage you to continue providing us with feedback so we can enhance the services we offer you.
As we move forward into the year, we will continue to uphold our “Tradition of Success.” I am honored to lead this Association, and I am confident that this year will bring great opportunities for growth, prosperity and progress for our membership. Thank you for being a part of PPOA. Stay safe, look out for each other, and I look forward to sharing further updates as we continue to move forward together.