CA SB161

Approves memoranda of understanding (labor agreements) between the state employer and State Bargaining Units 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21, with provisions requiring legislative appropriation of funds before taking effect

Requires employees in State Bargaining Units 8, 10, and 18 to participate in the Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025) from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2027, receiving reduced pay in exchange for monthly leave credits

Suspends employee and employer monthly contributions for prefunding retiree health care (other postemployment benefits) for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 fiscal years across multiple bargaining units, with phased resumption schedules beginning July 1, 2027

Freezes normal pension contribution rates for State Bargaining Unit 18 members (miscellaneous, industrial, and safety) at current levels through June 30, 2027, delaying adjustments based on normal cost rate changes until July 1, 2027

Increases Budget Act of 2025 appropriations by a net total of $14,597,000 ($1.557 million General Fund increase, $21.435 million special funds increase, offset by $8.395 million reduction in nongovernmental cost funds) for employee compensation pursuant to these agreements