In a split decision, some nurses in New York City are returning to work while others continue a labor dispute. The New York State Nurses Association reported that, following a month-long strike, nurses at Mount Sinai and Montefiore health systems have approved new three-year contracts and are resuming work. Nurses at NewYork-Presbyterian, however, have not reached an agreement and remain on strike, according to Gothamist.
The new contracts at Mount Sinai and Montefiore cover over 10,000 nurses and include approximately 12% salary increases over three years, enhanced health benefits, and commitments to hire additional staff and implement new safety measures to address workplace violence. At NewYork-Presbyterian, a majority of nurses voted against a similar contract, with 3,099 opposing and 867 in favor, as per POLITICO.
The disagreement at NewYork-Presbyterian centers on what the nurses’ negotiating committee views as insufficient provisions in the proposed contract. Key concerns include the absence of expedited arbitration for understaffing complaints and no guaranteed commitment to substantially increase nurse hiring. NYSNA President Nancy Hagans called for the hospital to reach an agreement and return all nurses to work.
A spokesperson for NewYork-Presbyterian expressed disappointment at the vote, stating that the proposal, which includes compromises, is fair and reflects respect for nurses. The hospital said it remains willing to honor the proposal if nurses reconsider. The vote highlights ongoing concerns among NewYork-Presbyterian nurses regarding working conditions and staffing levels.
The committee’s rejection of the contract focused on the hospital’s plan to hire only 60 new full-time employees, which they viewed as insufficient, particularly following a 2% workforce reduction the previous year, according to Gothamist. Nurses continue to express concerns about staffing and working conditions during the ongoing strike.
