UnityPoint Health-Meriter Nurses: Nurses announce they will stand for key protections in contract

MADISON, Wisc. — Nurses at Madison’s UnityPoint Health-Meriter Hospital have been at the bargaining table with management for the last month to fight for a more collaborative, safer, and respectful work environment. At a press conference Tuesday outside the hospital, nurses will show their solidarity and determination to win the respect, stronger standards and the contract they deserve.

Meriter nurses voted nearly unanimously to escalate the fight for a fair contract, authorizing the bargaining committee to issue a 10-day strike notice if necessary.

WHAT: Press conference announcing intention to escalate the fight for a fair contract

WHO: UnityPoint Health-Meriter Nurses, joined by Sen. Melissa Agard

WHEN: Tuesday, March 9 at 5 pm CT

WHERE: Outside UnityPoint Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 S. Park St.

VISUAL: Covid-safe crowd of nurses in scrubs, wearing union stickers

RSVP: Janet Veum, janet.veum@seiu.org, (202) 230-2143

          Amy Lebowitz, amy.lebowitz@berlinrosen.com 

During contract negotiations, nurses have united around key contract proposals, including a meaningful voice in decision making; just compensation for nurses who pick up extra shifts, which would mitigate staffing and scheduling problems; a reasonable work-life balance and sufficient paid time off that does not force nurses to use vacation days when they need sick days; and protections against the current pandemic and any future public health emergencies.