Tens of thousands of California state workers began a one-day strike Wednesday, marking the first such action in the history of their union.

Members of Service Employees International Union Local 1000, which represents about 100,000 employees across more than 140 state agencies, set up picket lines in Sacramento and 15 other locations statewide from San Diego to Eureka. The walkout affects services at agencies including the Department of Motor Vehicles and Employment Development Department.

The union has been without a contract since June 30. It accuses the Newsom administration of failing to bargain in good faith after rejecting proposals on wages, healthcare contributions and telework flexibility. Workers voted overwhelmingly to authorize the strike earlier this month.

Union demands include a 20 percent general salary increase over three years, with 7 percent raises in 2026 and 2027 and 6 percent in 2028. Additional requests cover increased state payments toward employee healthcare costs and more options for remote work, including commuting stipends for those required to report in person.

The strike follows an order by Gov. Gavin Newsom directing most state workers to return to the office four days a week by July 1. About 4,400 union members deemed essential for public safety and health were excluded from the action.

Union President Anica Walls said in a statement that the administration "can and must do better" and must return to the table for a contract that helps workers afford necessities. The state agency handling negotiations, CalHR, said it remains focused on reaching a fair agreement and is available at the bargaining table.

Picketers gathered at sites including the DMV headquarters in Sacramento, where hundreds assembled by mid-morning. Lines operated primarily from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. The action is expected to cause delays in some government services but not a full shutdown.