Important Updates: Wage Rate Increases, Sick Leave Deposits, and Meal Break Waivers

Thank you to everyone who reached out to the Union with concerns about discrepancies between what our new contract provides and what the employer has communicated regarding wage rate increases and sick leave deposits. WSNA has been in direct communication with SCH leadership to get answers and resolve these issues. Here’s where things stand:

Wage Rate Increases

We have escalated the issue regarding the timing of your wage rate increases. It is clear under the contract that your new wage rates should be reflected in your February 20 paycheck. The employer has stated it would be March 6—this does not comply with our agreement. SCH leadership has committed to reviewing this discrepancy immediately and will follow up with WSNA. We are awaiting their response and will keep you updated.

Sick Leave Deposits

The employer has confirmed that sick leave hours have been deposited, but due to system delays in payroll processing, there is a lag in visibility. If you have specific questions, you can contact Lauren Snyder at Lauren.Sheesley@seattlechildrens.org for confirmation.

Hours will be visible in Workday starting February 16. In the meantime, you can still use the hours if needed—they are in the system, even if not yet visible in your bank.

Meal Break Waivers

New state law rules regarding waiving rest and meal breaks went into effect January 1, 2026. SCH has bargained with WSNA over a new waiver form that aligns with these updated requirements. When the new form is distributed, WSNA recommends you review and complete it to update your election.

  • The new form has been bargained with WSNA and includes your rights under the new rules.
  • The old form was not bargained.
  • If you complete the new form, it will replace your existing waiver.
  • If you do not complete the new form, your current waiver remains in place unless you revoke it.

Stay connected and informed:

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Questions? Contact your Local Unit Officers or WSNA Nurse Rep Linda Burbank at lburbank@wsna.org

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