CCPOA president Don Novey established the union's tradition of forming close alliances and friendships with political leaders during the 1980s.

Don Novey led a successful effort during the 1980s to combine California Youth Authority supervisors and parole officers with prison guards, launching the CCPOA's rise to prominence.

By 1992, the CCPOA was California's second largest political action committee, contributing over a million dollars to legislative candidates.

Lobbying efforts and campaign contributions by the CCPOA have helped secure passage of numerous legislative bills favorable to union members, including bills that increase prison terms, member pay, and enforce current drug laws.

The CCPOA takes the position that correctional officers perform an essential public service that work in great danger, and strives for a safer California.