Allegations of Misconduct Against SEIU United Health Workers West President Dave Regan

SACRAMENTO — The President of SEIU United Health Workers West, Dave Regan, is facing serious allegations following investigations commissioned by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). These investigations accuse Regan of trying to extort an endorsement from SEIU state council leaders for a new billionaire tax measure on the ballot. Allegations include threats and intimidation against female employees and, in one instance, physical assault.

Regan, in a statement to The Times, refuted all accusations, labeling them as politically biased and retaliatory due to his support for Proposition 40, a proposed wealth tax set for the November ballot. Despite his denials, investigations revealed multiple allegations of misconduct, including claims supported by law firm reports that Regan exerted extreme pressure on SEIU members to gain political endorsements. These reports involved interviews with 18 current and former leaders within the California labor movement.

Allegations and Investigations

David Huerta, President of SEIU United Service Workers West, alongside three other labor leaders, filed official charges against Regan in February, prompting SEIU to engage New York labor law firm Cohen, Weiss and Simon. This firm substantiated certain claims against Regan, including threatening government action if the state council refused to endorse the billionaire tax.

Sufficient evidence was found to support allegations of Regan intimidating former SEIU California executive directors, with patterns of verbal and physical abuse identified.

Among the allegations are claims that Tia Orr, Executive Director of SEIU California, felt personally threatened by Regan over the ballot measure endorsement. Following similar incidents, state union officials temporarily barred Regan from SEIU California offices.

Regan’s Defense and Further Claims

Regan has consistently denied these allegations, calling the investigative processes flawed and accusing his detractors of bias. He pointed out possible motivations linked to his support for Proposition 40, which proposes a 5% wealth tax on billionaires residing in California by 2026.

The investigations further revealed past instances where Regan purportedly used coercive tactics. Text and email exchanges documented offers to drop charges in return for political endorsements. Although Regan rejected claims of extortion, investigators remained skeptical.

Repercussions Within SEIU

Following the extensive investigations and mounting evidence, SEIU President April Verrett has the authority to temporarily suspend Regan pending further hearings. There is acknowledgment within the union of Regan’s alleged patterns of abuse being an “open secret,” with several female directors attesting to his intimidating behaviors.

Efforts to address these allegations continue within SEIU to ensure the integrity and safety of the union’s members and staff. SEIU emphasized their commitment to a thorough evaluation process, ensuring all involved parties receive due process during this ongoing examination of accusations.

Ultimately, the executive board of SEIU California voted in July to remain neutral on Proposition 40, representing a setback for Regan amidst strong opposition from various California political entities and influential figures.