Striking healthcare workers gather outside Butler Hospital to voice their demands for improved wages and safety protocols.
The strike by almost 800 Butler Hospital workers has escalated as management terminates health insurance for striking employees. With nearly two months of strikes, workers demand better pay and working conditions, while the union reports successful enrollment in state healthcare benefits. Political figures are also calling for negotiations to resume between the union and hospital management, amidst concerns over workplace safety and financial priorities.
The strike by workers at Butler Hospital has entered its second month as hospital management terminated health insurance coverage for striking employees represented by SEIU 1199 on June 1. This move has drawn significant attention, as nearly 800 unionized workers—including nurses, mental health staff, clerical personnel, custodial staff, and dietary employees—continue to demand better pay and working conditions.
In a recent development, the union has reported that all striking workers have enrolled in healthcare benefits through the state following the termination of their hospital-provided insurance. The union believes that the hospital’s attempt to use healthcare access as leverage has not succeeded, as workers have sought alternative coverage options. Employees were informed of the termination of their health, dental, and vision coverage on May 31, just days after they received their last paycheck on May 23.
Governor Dan McKee has intervened by urging both Butler Hospital and the union to return to the bargaining table to negotiate a fair agreement. He issued a letter to both parties prior to the weekend, emphasizing the importance of resolving the ongoing dispute. Meanwhile, the strike is set to continue, with workers rallying outside Butler Hospital starting at 6 a.m. daily.
The strike, which began on May 15, was prompted by stalled contract negotiations between the union and Care New England, the parent company of Butler Hospital. The union voted to authorize the strike on April 25, following an unsuccessful bargaining session on May 7. Workers are advocating for higher wages, pension access for future hires, and improved safety protocols, especially in response to increasing incidents of workplace violence.
Earlier this month, nearly 300 striking workers marked their presence with a rally at the Rhode Island State House, where they highlighted their demands for fair wages and better working conditions. The collective noise level during the rally reached 119 decibels, which is comparable to the sound of a chainsaw. This demonstration aimed to raise awareness about the significant issues facing hospital workers in the region.
Support for the striking workers has emerged from various political figures, including State Representative David Bennett, a retired nurse. He underscored the importance of fair wages and contracts during his remarks at the State House. A letter signed by 44 state senators and representatives was sent to Butler Hospital President Mary E. Marran, urging a resumption of negotiations between the hospital and the union. Additionally, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi has called on both parties to negotiate in good faith, recognizing the strike’s impact on the community.
Care New England has claimed that it has been transparent in its negotiating efforts, asserting that the union walked away from discussions. However, Jesse Martin, Executive Vice President of SEIU 1199 New England, has criticized the hospital’s financial priorities, suggesting that resources are being allocated to high CEO salaries rather than the needs of the workforce. Martin has reaffirmed the union’s commitment to continuing the strike until meaningful negotiations recommence, stating that they would respond when management is ready to engage.
Interim President Howard Dulude of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island has acknowledged the financial pressures hospitals are facing, expressing a need for legislative support to alleviate some of the challenges. As the strike continues, the specter of lost wages and diminished healthcare access looms large for the workers involved, while community members and legislators watch closely to see how the situation develops.
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