Posted on the CAPT website
www.psychtechs.net
February 26, 2010

Judge calls for back pay for our special-fund coworkers

Alameda Superior Court Judge Frank Roesch ruled yesterday that the state must pay back pay to all state employees affected by furloughs at special-funded agencies, such as the Department of Consumer Affairs, the State Lottery Commission and DMV. Special-fund agencies get their operating revenue directly from fees or assessments, not the state’s General Fund as our departments do.

Although yesterday’s ruling doesn’t affect CAPT members – and although the governor (true to form) plans on appealing and stalling it – the judgment continues to offer hope for our own furlough lawsuit, still scheduled for hearing March 19.

IN OTHER NEWS...

Speakers say “no” to closure of Lanterman Developmental Center. Hundreds of family members, clients, advocates, foster grandparents, employees and more flooded DeBell Auditorium to speak at an official DDS hearing on the proposed closure. CAPT State President and LDC SPT Tony Myers delivered a statement on behalf of our union: “Any closure plan – or any plan at all involving clients -- should be individual-based, not money-motivated.” All testimony will be forwarded to legislators as they consider DDS’ proposal.

Legislators peppered with advocacy letters. BU 18 members are taking action by sending in fliers supporting anti-minimum-wage legislation and opposing a bill to close both Lanterman and Fairview Developmental Centers. Thanks to so many of you who have taken a stand! To get your own fill-out fliers, contact your chapter office or get copies at www.psychtechs.net.

Union halts NCYCC schedule change. In an example of just one of many fires CAPT’s put out lately, union reps stopped an across-the-board schedule change this week at CDCR/DJJ’s Northern California youth facility.

Our union will continue to stay on top of these issues and many more. For more information, contact your chapter president and keep and eye on www.psychtechs.net.