December 18, 2024, day 12, we started the day by WSNA providing a package proposal to VNA.  Our proposal provided tentative agreements on Weekend Premium, On-Call, Night On-Call, and Master's Degree/Certifications.

However, outstanding issues remain such as Charge Nurse Premium, Preceptor Premium, and wages. While the terms of Relief Nurses continue to be addressed, we held firm on the need for contractual increases. Below is a greater breakdown of where we are in our discussions.

Wages:

WSNA Proposal:

13.75% with proposed start date 6/1/2024
4.25% with proposed start date 6/1/2025
4.25% with proposed start date 5/1/2026

PVNS Proposal:

4% after the third full pay period following ratification
2% after 2/1/2026
1.5% after 8/1/2026
2% after 2/1/2027
1.5% after 8/1/2027

We believe wages are imperative to retain and recruit staff. We feel the employer can meet our proposal since they have made similar moves for other Providence ministries.

Relief Nurses:

Management proposed the same fixed dollar amount of $6.50 per/hour for a 4 shift and 1 weekend requirement, and $8.00 per/hour for 6 shifts with 2 weekends in a 4-week period.   These work requirements, along with a flat dollar rate for compensation instead of a percentage rate, continue to bring concerns for the WSNA team of nurses when it comes to retaining current staff. We intend to have more discussions on this topic during our next session.

Premiums: 

The employer continues to propose $2.00/hour for charge nurse pay. We have told them this is concerning for us since Providence has offered a higher rate to other facilities elsewhere such as SHMC, HFH and SLR. At this time, we are asking for $4.00/hour for charge nurse premium, and $2.00/hour for preceptor pay. We believe there is still room to bargain on these premiums and PVNA can do better.

SAVE THE DATE! Next Days to bargain are Jan 21 and Feb 11

NEXT Local Unit meeting will be virtual via Teams on Jan 22 at 7 pm. Link and information will be sent out after the first of the year.

YOU CAN HELP!

As we keep traveling towards contract ratification, ensure we don’t run out of gas!

Please continue to show support to the bargaining team by displaying car signs, wearing buttons and other WSNA gear!

Show management our strength by displaying YOUR solidarity.  We are stronger together!

Questions or concerns? Not receiving emails or text messages? Please reach out to Kitt Ruchert WSNA Nurse Representative by email kruchert@wsna.org or text 206-809-5036.  We are looking forward to hearing from you and seeing your WSNA PRIDE!