The administration's negotiation team called for a review of all the work we had already completed, using up nearly two entire sessions over two weeks to hash out tentative agreements we had already completed. We kept up the pressure to increase the cadence of our negotiations and were able to agree on the language for three major articles, including year-to-year step credit for relevant nursing experience for new hires as well as a revamped grievance process that clarifies the timelines to ensure that steps are completed properly and makes the first step of presenting your grievance to your immediate supervisor optional.

Administration has proposed removing the discrimination clause that allows you to fight discrimination in the workplace through the grievance process. Your negotiation team is staunchly against the idea of removing those protections and has continued to push back. The same proposal was made to AFSME and PROTEC17, the two other unions representing workers at the Health Department, and we stand united in our opposition to this takeaway of your rights. Please keep an eye out for potential joint actions between the unions and opportunities to let your voice be heard.

In solidarity,
Your Bargaining Team
Susan Babcock, Chair
Sue Starr, Vice Chair

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your bargaining team or your WSNA nurse rep, Grace Chesterman (gchesterman@wsna.org).