Dear Butler Community-
The hospital has worked hard throughout the negotiation process to identify common ground and address issues like significant wage increases. I am saddened by SEIU 1199 NE’s decision to disengage from the bargaining process during the parties’ session on Wednesday, May 7.
Along with the stability and predictability of a four-year commitment, the hospital’s proposal included:
- A dedicated workplace violence task force, comprised of 50% union members, that would work with the Health and Safety committee to continue working to create a safer workplace
- Across the board increases of 18% for off-scale workers, which is double our most recent contract
- Increases for on-scale workers that are more than double the most recent contract
- Meaningful improvement for our lowest wage workers, some of whom would see over 40% increases over the course of the contract
- Stable medical insurance programs with guaranteed premiums
- Continued hospital contributions toward HSA on high-deductible medical plan
- Preserving the pension program for all current employees
While we are committed to reaching an agreement with a strike only one week away, we will now prepare to ensure continuity of our care for our patients.
Respectfully,
Mary
