CASE Wins $$$ For DIR Judges. CASE secured another big victory at arbitration where our ALJs at DIR (Workers’ Compensation Judges and CalOSHAB Judges), who were denied their 4.5% SSA increases in 2023, are now entitled to up to 14 months of back pay plus interest, which could amount to more than $8,000 for many judges. CASE Secretary Wade DiCosmo and CASE Director Simon Hovakimian (both of whom are ALJs at DIR) led the fight on this battle, with Director Hovakimian providing important testimony on how the ALJs were unfairly denied their raise. CASE President Tim O’Connor (an Attorney at State Fund with no financial interest in the outcome) provided key testimony about bargaining that undermined the testimony of the State’s chief negotiator. The entire CASE Board ensured that all necessary and appropriate resources were deployed to put us in a position to be victorious.
Victory for Members at CalFire. As CASE previously reported, effective October 1, 2024, CalHR allowed an exception to provide a rate above the established minimum salary range of a classification. This rate is called a Hire Above Minimum or “HAM.” CASE received an inquiry from a CASE member at the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection who believed they qualified for the HAM salary adjustment. CASE contacted Labor Relations at CalFire requesting that the department review the HAM adjustments for this member. As a result of CASE’s inquiry, CalFire initiated a review of all similarly situated BU2 employees for their eligibility. It was discovered that many of the BU2 employees that were eligible for the HAM, did not receive it. As such, CalFire HR took immediate action and processed the HAM for seven BU2 eligible employees, with the payments issued 4/15/25. All of the impacted BU2 employees’ salaries have been adjusted and pay issued. Backpay will be issued for pay periods 10/24 through 03/25.
Each impacted member will be receiving adjustments in the range of approximately $850 per month moving forward along with back pay of approximately $4700, although the exact amounts will vary by classification and start date. CASE remains committed to advocating for our members and achieving victories on their behalf. Our strength lies in our unity. It is vital for us to support one another and remain engaged. Increasing our membership is a significant step we can all take to demonstrate unity and strength. We would greatly appreciate it if you could encourage your non-member colleagues to do the same in support of our cause.
CASE Is Back at the Bargaining Table. Just a reminder that it is critical that all members encourage their colleagues to join the fight and support the Bargaining Team in its efforts to improve benefits and salaries for us all. An increase in our membership enrollment would serve as a critical showing of our members’ commitment and engagement in the outcome of the important terms under negotiation and the CASE Board appreciates members assisting with its efforts and extensive time commitments.
Professional Development Days – Use ‘Em or Lose ‘Em. CASE Members receive professional development days (PDD) each year. Unlike other types of leave that can rollover from year to year, your PDDs expire each fiscal year on June 30. You can check to see how much PDD time you have on the books by referring to the Leave Balances box in your CalConnect Account. Unlike other leave balances which get lower with use, the “TRNG/DEV” line item that reflects PDD use counts up with usage. If the number in the far-right box is less than 40, then you have PDD time to use.
Support Foster Youth and Your Health. Join your fellow CASE members for a good cause on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at the Foster the Future Run in La Cañada. The event, with 5k run/walk, 10k run/walk, and Run For Paws options, benefits Journey House and CASE members receive $15 off their registration using the discount code CASE.
SpaFinder Gift Cards. Welcome to the ultimate relaxation experience with the SpaFinder Gift Card! In appreciation of your membership, CASE would like to treat you or a loved one to a day of pampering at top spas and wellness centers. With this online event, you can indulge in massages, facials, yoga classes, and more. It is the perfect gift for anyone in need of some self-care. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate with two $50 SpaFinder gift cards for the price of one! Gift cards are limited. Click here to purchase.
Join CASE for exciting Women’s Soccer in San Diego. San Diego Wave FC vs. Seattle Reign FC on Friday, June 6 at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $30 and will be in the lower bowl of Snapdragon Stadium. Please purchase tickets here.
Kings Playoff Tickets. The Los Angeles Kings are in the Stanley Cup Playoffs and CASE may be able to secure an extremely limited number of tickets for a yet to be determined Round 2 game if the Kings advance. If you are interested in attending, please email CASE Director Simon Hovakimian at simon.hovakimian@calattorneys.org to be added to an interest list. You are not obligated to purchase the tickets if you submit your name to the interest list and submitting your name does not guarantee tickets. If CASE obtains the tickets, there will be a lottery for those on the interest list to purchase a maximum of two tickets at a yet to be determined amount.
REMINDERS:
CASE Board Meeting Date Change. The next quarterly Board Meeting has been moved to Wednesday, May 28. Register here no later than Tuesday, May 27 at 5:00 pm and you’ll receive the link by 9:00 am on Wednesday morning to attend. (pw: membersmatter22).