News Briefs: July/August 2014

1199 contract win

With our many congratulations, 1199SEIU reached agreement with the League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes in July. 1199’s contract campaign included walks-in-on-the-boss, pickets and rallies. No benefit takeaways, a significant wage increase and a more fair process for nonunion workers to organize in outpatient clinics were agreed upon.

Presby RNs win Safe Staffing victory

Overcrowding at Presbyterian’s Children’s Hospital ED, documented by 170 POAs, led to a big staffing win for RNs. A total of nine new positions were added.

Reinstatement for Monte RN

Geetha Uppin, RN, an OR nurse at Montefiore’s Moses Campus, was reinstated on July 7 after the employer failed to prove just cause for discharge. Scores of fellow RNs had protested and petitioned to fight for her reinstatement.

Midwives ratification

Bronx Midwives ratified their first contract on July 29 in a big win for the nurses, mothers and babies of the Bronx. Midwives from Jacobi Medical Center and North Central Bronx Hospital voted unanimously for the contract with PAGNY, the Physician Affiliate Group of New York.

15 on fast track

At Montefiore’s Weiler ED in the Bronx, after a POA campaign, outreach to press and electeds, 15 RNs positions were designated for addition on a fast track. A big victory for safe staffing, as overcrowding and inadequate staffing will be addressed with additional positions.

A terrible loss

NYSNA continues to mourn the loss of Katy Peterson, RN, who died tragically in an automobile accident on June 27. Katy was a devoted and talented Med/Surg nurse at Nathan Littauer Hospital and an inspiring union leader. She will be deeply missed by her fellow nurses and by her patients.

Last year’s parade was the best!

Please join NYSNA members and families at this year’s West Indian Day Parade in Brooklyn on September 1. For more information contact your rep or go to www.nysna.org.