NYSNA wins back pay award for Nistel RNs

KINGSTON, Jan. 25, 2010 – The New York State Nurses Association has won a back-pay settlement award of more than $6,000 for five registered nurse members employed by Nistel, Inc., at Benedictine and Kingston hospitals. The back pay settlement award was a result of the employer’s unilateral change to its on-call policy.

“Our union, the Nurses Association, filed an unfair labor practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board when our on-call policy was changed without our receiving any notice,” said Julia Motti, RN. “With our union supporting us, we were able to send a clear message that we will stand against any changes that violate our rights!”

In addition to the back pay settlement award, the Nurses Association also won the rescinding of an unjust discipline against a member. This was a critical step, because the affected member was an active participant in the nurses’ union organizing drive and continues to be active today. It sends a message to all other Nurses Association members that union activity is protected under the law.

"Now, with the successful resolution of these charges, we look for significant progress in negotiations and the securing of a first contract for our members employed by Nistel, Inc.," said Thomas Darby, Nurses Association labor relations representative.

The New York State Nurses Association is the voice for nursing in the Empire State. With more than 37,000 members, it is the state's largest union and professional association for registered nurses. It supports nurses and nursing practice through education, research, legislative advocacy, and collective bargaining.

-30-