Nurses strike in NYC looms as major hospitals, union fail to reach deal before midnight deadline

"The potential for a major nurses strike in New York City is growing by the minute, after major hospitals and the New York State Nurses Association failed to negotiate a deal before Sunday's midnight deadline. As a result, nearly 15,000 nurses could walk off the job Monday at Montefiore Medical Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, Mount Sinai Morningside, Mount Sinai West and NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, unless something happens during the overnight hours and an agreement is reached."

"The union said Sunday at a news conference that a strike would begin Monday at 6 a.m. at Mount Sinai and 7 a.m. at other facilities without a new contract. Mayor Zohran Mamdani acknowledged the potential strike Sunday evening, posting a message on social media that reads, in part, "We are prepared for any and all scenarios, including a strike ... No New Yorker should have to fear losing access to health care -- and no nurse should be asked to accept less pay, fewer benefits or less dignity for doing lifesaving work.""

"Leaders for NYSNA have said key sticking points in contract negotiations with Montefiore, Mount Sinai and NewYork-Presbyterian involve wage increases, health benefits, protection from workplace violence, and safe staffing and patient safety. "Instead of guaranteeing health care for nurses, these wealthy hospitals are pushing to cut health benefits for nurses who put their own health on the line to care for New Yorkers," Nancy Hagans, president of NYSNA, said on Saturday."

Nearly 15,000 nurses at Montefiore, Mount Sinai (including Morningside and West) and NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia could strike Monday after contract talks failed to meet a midnight deadline. The union set staggered start times, 6 a.m. at Mount Sinai and 7 a.m. at other facilities, if no agreement is reached. Major negotiation issues include wage increases, health benefits, protection from workplace violence, and safe staffing to ensure patient safety. Hospitals labeled a potential walkout reckless and urged reconsideration. The mayor said city officials are prepared for all scenarios and emphasized protecting both access to health care and nurses' rights.

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