We presented our economic proposals to the employer today and raised several other proposed changes to the contract. The Union’s opening economic proposals include:

• Wage increases to catch the hospital up to other hospital employers
• Additional PTO and language clarifying that nurses can use their PTO for sick days
• Increased employer match for the 403(b) plan
• Improvements to premium pay
• Additional money to reimburse medical expenses

Jason Kindle (RN PACU) told the employer: “This place used to be a place where people felt it was a privilege to work. We used to have more applicants than open positions.  That is why we are proposing these changes.”

We have also reached tentative agreements on several language changes, moving the bargaining process forward. We will be meeting with the hospital again on November 11 to negotiate over additional proposed language changes, including the employer’s proposal to vary from state law on meal and rest breaks. We want bargaining team supporters to attend negotiations on November 14, as that will be the day we have the hospital’s initial response to our economic proposals. Please use the digital sign-up form or sign up with one of the local unit officers.

The bargaining tram will be reaching out to you with opportunities to get more involved in our campaign. Your bargaining team is working to get you the best contract possible, and it starts with you!

We will be having a virtual sip and chat tomorrow evening at 2000 where your bargaining team will be able to answer questions about negotiations. Please use the link below to join:

Your Bargaining Team,

Ryan Housden – ED 
Jason Kindle – OPS
Jennifer Reynolds – CCU
Kim Scott – CCU
Kala Winter – Informatics 
Michelle Phillips - OPS

Questions? Contact WSNA Nurse Representative Stephenie Troftgruben at stroftgruben@wsna.org.