For decades, CAL FIRE firefighters have been forced to work 72-hour workweeks despite the standard 56 implemented at many departments around the state.  This has led to retention issues for the department and caused harm to CAL FIRE firefighters' families, physical health, and mental health. 

Governor Gavin Newsom has included the 66-hour workweek in his proposed 2024 budget, which is currently under consideration by the California Legislature, bringing Local 2881 one step closer to parity. 

On this edition of CPF Fire Wire, CPF President Brian Rice meets with CAL FIRE Local 2881 President Tim Edwards to discuss their ongoing fight to bring the hours in their workweek closer to the rest of the California fire service. The CPF membership has stood in solidarity with Local 2881 in this fight, and will need to continue to do so to help them get to 56.