Healthcare workers demand fair compensation during a strike at Butler Hospital.
Workers at Butler Hospital have entered a prolonged strike for fair compensation, marking the longest hospital strike in Rhode Island’s history. The New England Health Care Employees Union has expressed dissatisfaction with the hospital’s wage proposal, which they believe does not adequately support all staff members. Reports indicate that many employees are struggling to meet basic living expenses, prompting a strong response from the union. In contrast, hospital representatives claim their offer is competitive. Negotiations continue amidst rising community support for the workers’ cause.
Providence, Rhode Island – Workers at Butler Hospital, represented by the New England Health Care Employees Union (SEIU 1199NE), have been striking for over two months, marking the longest hospital strike in Rhode Island’s history. The labor dispute escalated after the hospital presented its “last, best, and final” proposal on July 11, which included wage increases for certain positions but was criticized for being insufficient for many workers.
The union expressed disappointment that Butler Hospital publicized the proposal online before its members had the opportunity to review it. Registered nurses and mental health workers have noted the wage increases, but other staff members, including clerical, dietary, and housekeeping workers, have raised concerns about inadequate pay. They argue that all employees at Butler Hospital play essential roles and deserve fair compensation. Reports from the union indicate that over half of the surveyed Butler staff are struggling to meet basic living needs, including affording food and housing.
Amid the strike, Joanna Futrell, a member working in medical records, indicated that the proposed starting pay does not meet basic costs of living in Rhode Island. The union has stressed that their members did not engage in a two-month strike to settle for less favorable terms regarding their compensation and benefits.
In contrast, representatives from Butler Hospital assert that their proposal is competitive and market-leading. Hospital spokesperson Mike Raia suggested that SEIU 1199NE is using the strike as a political tool and called for an end to the labor dispute. The hospital claims to have sufficient resources to invest in its workforce and maintain a stable working environment.
The union is in the process of drafting a counterproposal. They aim to secure fair market wages and strengthen healthcare benefits for all hospital employees, emphasizing the importance of equitable treatment for every worker, regardless of their role. This stance aligns with a report that highlighted the wages necessary for residents to afford basic housing in Rhode Island, further underscoring the financial challenges faced by many staff members.
In a parallel development, on July 18, another group, the United Nurses and Allied Professionals (UNAP), successfully ratified a new three-year contract for nearly 2,500 workers at Rhode Island Hospital and Hasbro Children’s Hospital. This contract brings attention to contrasting labor negotiations within the state’s healthcare sector.
The ongoing strike continues against a backdrop of significant community and political pressure. As both sides advocate for their respective interests, it remains unclear how the situation will unfold. Negotiations are ongoing, with the labor dispute highlighting the fundamental issues of worker compensation and the necessity for fair treatment across all positions at Butler Hospital.
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