#United States #Boston #Massachusetts Nurses Association #Labor Practices #Brigham and Women's Hospital

Massachusetts Nurses Association Files Another Labor Charge

The Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA) has taken a significant step forward in its ongoing struggle for better working conditions and fair treatment at Brigham and Women's Hospital by filing a fourth federal unfair labor practice (ULP) charge against the hospital. This legal action comes as the nurses prepare for an indefinite strike scheduled to begin on October 14, 2026.

Representing around 4,000 nurses at the facility, the MNA's latest filing highlights an alarming trend: management's unilateral changes to job descriptions and duties without negotiating with the elected representatives of the nursing staff. This clear violation of labor rights has raised concerns among nurses about their ability to provide adequate patient care, which they believe is being undermined by corporate interests.

Background on Labor Practice Charges

The latest charge was officially filed on October 2, 2026, and it builds upon three previous complaints that the MNA has lodged against the hospital for retaliatory actions towards nurses participating in a strike.

1. First Charge: This dealt with the hospital’s illegal measures to stop neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses from participating in the strike that commenced on July 8, 2026.
2. Second Charge: Concerns arose over management’s retaliatory management of nurse schedules, a clear response to the July strike.
3. Third Charge: Nurses were threatened with disciplinary action if they did not remove union insignia from their attire.

These actions signal a troubling disregard for labor rights and present a case for why nurses feel the need to strike.

Preparing for the Indefinite Strike

In response to the hospital's unyielding stance and refusal to negotiate fairly, Brigham nurses have organized an open-ended strike beginning at 7 a.m. on October 14. This decision highlights the nursing staff's determination to stand up for their rights and the quality of patient care, catalyzed by MGB's (Mass General Brigham) consistent neglect of their legal duty to negotiate in good faith. The nurses delivered a ten-day notice of their intent to strike, fulfilling legal prerequisites and showcasing their commitment to their cause.

Kelly Morgan, a registered nurse and Chair of the BWH MNA Bargaining Committee, emphasized that management cannot change the fundamental responsibilities of nursing staff without involving their union representatives. “Our job duties shape the care we provide and the conditions under which we provide it,” she stated, reinforcing the nurses' belief in their right to negotiate their roles.

The MNA asserts that the financial resources of Mass General Brigham—highlighted by their substantial profits and hefty CEO salaries—make it clear they can afford to meet nurses' demands for a fair contract. Last fiscal year, MGB reported nearly $3 billion in profits and provided its CEO with a staggering $9.2 million compensation package, raising ethical questions about the priorities of hospital management.

The Call to Action

Jim McCarthy, an RN and Vice Chair of the BWH MNA Bargaining Committee, articulated the nurses’ sentiments succinctly: “Nurses should be able to advocate for our patients, wear our union buttons, and exercise our right to strike without interference or retaliation.” This statement reflects not only the frustrations of the nursing staff but also their commitment to ensuring that patient care remains a top priority.

Despite the contentious backdrop, the nurses have expressed willingness to return to the negotiation table. They have continually offered to meet with management at any time or place, emphasizing their eagerness to resolve the standoff amicably. However, management has conditioned future negotiations on concessions that would significantly alter the nurses’ working conditions. The demands from MNA include affordable health insurance options, limits on temporary nursing staff reliance, and pay increases that consider the cost of living.

Conclusion

As the strike date approaches, the eyes of the nation watch this critical moment in labor relations within healthcare. The response from Mass General Brigham and their willingness to engage in fair negotiations could set a precedent in the realm of healthcare labor rights and influence future policies. What is clear is that the nurses at Brigham and Women’s Hospital are not willing to back down in their quest for a fair contract that protects both the nursing professionals and the patients they tirelessly serve. The upcoming strike is not only a test of wills between management and nursing staff but also a glaring spotlight on labor practices in one of New England's largest health systems.

For more information, follow MNA's updates at MassNurses.org.