#United States #Grand Blanc #Patient Safety #Teamsters Local 332 #Higher Wages

Teamsters Nurses at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital Prepare to Strike

In a decisive move, nurses and case workers represented by Teamsters Local 332 at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital have turned down what was presented as the final contract offer by their employer. This overwhelming rejection, with 93% of those voting opposing the deal, has set the stage for a potential strike, with an official notice filed to commence on September 1, 2025.

Reasons for Strike Preparation

Dan Glass, the President of Teamsters Local 332, emphasized the nurses’ determination. He stated, “Teamsters nurses know their worth. This egregious offer from Henry Ford Genesys shows a regression in our progress. The issues surrounding nurse-to-patient ratios and proposed reductions in premium pay are simply unacceptable.” The hospital staff has historically sought to better their working conditions through collective bargaining agreements over the last 25 years, and the latest offer does not maintain this trend.

The crux of the issue lies in how the hospital management has responded to previous negotiations. Patricia Pierce, a chief steward at Local 332, voiced concerns over patient safety and the working environment. She stated, “For years, nurses have flocked to work at Michigan hospitals like Henry Ford Genesys because safety has always been prioritized. However, the recent proposals, which increase the patient load and cut incentives for new nurses, compromise this safety and create an atmosphere prompting them to look for jobs elsewhere.” This deteriorating situation raises significant concerns not just for nursing staff but also for the health and safety of patients.

Timeline of Events

The Teamsters successfully exhausted all efforts to reach an agreement before the contract expired on June 5, continuing to negotiate beyond that date. Yet, instead of progressing, Henry Ford Genesys attempted to roll back benefits previously agreed upon, igniting the call for a strike. This move comes at a time when many healthcare facilities face challenges in maintaining staffing levels due to high demand and competitive salaries being offered by other institutions.

Local 332's announcement highlights the severe implications of the situation: “We are fighting for a secure environment not only for hospital staff but also for our patients and their families.” The striking nurses are preparing for significant action if concessions are not made, emphasizing the necessity of respectful treatment from their employer that acknowledges their contributions.

Future Prospects

As striking preparations continue, there are no upcoming bargaining sessions scheduled between the nurses and hospital management. This leaves the striking nurses and caseworkers poised to make a strong statement about their demands for fair treatment. As the planned strike date approaches, public sentiment and media coverage may play critical roles in influencing the hospital's response.

Teamsters Local 332, established in 1933, has long represented working people in the Flint, Michigan area, advocating for rights and equitable treatment across various sectors. In this latest conflict, the organization’s commitment to its members shines through, showcasing the ongoing struggle for nurses to achieve fair working conditions in an ever-challenging healthcare landscape.

For additional updates and to learn more about their cause, the union has encouraged the public to visit teamsters332.com for further information.