In June, our dedicated bargaining team proposed an across-the-board COLA for the second year of this contract. Proposals were also made for enhanced staffing ratios in the ED, IMCU, and MED-SURG floors. Yesterday, Lynn Rehab presented to Management, which concluded our presentations.
Much to our disappointment, Management came to our third bargaining session yesterday with no offers to put on the table.
Chief negotiator Martha Baker, RN, spoke passionately, “Management must recognize the value of all JHS employees and pay them a fair cost of living, especially in Miami-Dade County, which is now one of the most expensive places to live in the Country. If Jackson can afford to build a new ER and pay all our debtors, we can certainly afford to pay our employees a fair cost of living.”
The bargaining team made it clear: A fair cost of living is necessary, and any concessions are off the table.
Our next bargaining session will be on Tuesday, September 17, at 2:00 p.m. in DTC 270 at JMH. We expect Management to come with a proposal.
Your presence is crucial and can make a significant impact. Please save the date in your calendars now so we can pack the room!