Future of California’s Disabled Workforce Hangs in Balance as Group Appeals to Governor, Legislative Leaders

June 20, 2025 at 17:29 PM EDT

Fifty-eight workers slated to lose jobs when contract with state ends, threatening disabled jobs throughout the state
Father of Americans With Disability Act former Congressman Tony Coelho joins call for intervention, warns of exclusion of disabled workforce in California

PRIDE Industries made an urgent attempt Thursday to get help from the Governor and Legislative leaders to save the jobs of 58 employees, half of whom have disabilities or are service-disabled veterans. The company, which holds a contract with a state facility for janitorial services and employs and provides support services to the workers, sent letters requesting intervention to Governor Newsom, Speaker Rivas and Senate President pro Tempore McGuire.

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In just days, PRIDE Industries said its 58 employees will be cut off from their jobs at the state’s California Medical Facility (CMF) in Vacaville as a result of a damaging decision by the State Personnel Board at the request of SEIU Local 1000. The workers are employed at the facility through a contract held by PRIDE Industries.

These individuals are slated to lose their jobs when the positions they hold are set to be reassigned July 1 to inmate labor. In the letter to the state’s highest leaders, CMF worker Ameer Habeeb emphasizes that rehabilitation programs should not come at the expense of inclusive employment.

“These two missions are not mutually exclusive, and California should be leading the way in honoring both,” Habeeb said.

Habeeb called for urgent state intervention and support for a legislative fix that would preserve these jobs and uphold California’s commitment to equitable workforce access for the long-term.

Efforts to work with SEIU Local 1000 advocating for a similar course of action have not yielded a resolution, according to PRIDE Industries.

Former Congressman Tony Coelho, author the Americans with Disabilities Act, also has urged the state and union to retain the positions held by these employees and come up with a lasting solution to protect employment for people with disabilities.

The letter was delivered to Governor Newsom and leadership on Thursday and noted that the stakes for disability inclusion and equity in California’s public workforce are high.

About PRIDE Industries

PRIDE Industries provides facilities operations and maintenance services, custodial services, contract manufacturing, supply chain management, packaging and fulfillment services, and placement services to private and public organizations nationwide. Founded in 1966, PRIDE Industries’ mission is to create employment for people with disabilities. Through personalized employment services it helps individuals realize their true potential and lead more independent lives. PRIDE Industries proves the value of its inclusive workforce model through operational success across multiple industries every day.