Union leader behind California billionaires’ tax proposal accused of threatening, harassing women

Dave Regan, president of the SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, is facing accusations of harassing and intimidating women who work for an affiliated union, according to an investigative report obtained by The Associated Press. The allegations, detailed in a report commissioned by SEIU California, include Regan's attempts to pressure union leaders into supporting a proposal to tax billionaires, which will be voted on by California voters in November.

The report also alleges that Regan physically assaulted an SEIU leader over 15 years ago, and engaged in harassing behavior against other women within the organization in more recent times. Regan has denied the physical assault allegation, stating that he will take responsibility for any statements or actions he has made. The ballot measure, Proposition 40, proposes a one-time 5% tax on billionaires living in California to help fund healthcare for low-income people, but has caused divisions within the Democratic Party and among labor unions.

SEIU California has filed charges against Regan with the SEIU International Union for alleged bullying, extortion, and threats.