Rochester General Hospital (RGH) and the Rochester Union of Nurses & Allied Professionals (RUNAP) met today for our seventh bargaining session since negotiations began in October. The session began at 10 AM and ended just before noon, with both sides discussing several issues as they work towards a first collective bargaining agreement.
At the beginning of the session, RGH presented an overview of a new workforce education program that will help employees develop in-demand skills needed to support their career growth. RUNAP was receptive to the program and agreed to participate once it’s implemented.
During the session, the Parties Discussed the Following Counterproposals from RGH:
- Health and Safety, Equipment and Supplies: RUNAP had previously proposed that each year or more frequently if needed, RGH would conduct a very detailed and burdensome facility risk assessment in conjunction with the union. RGH presented an updated counterproposal noting that RGH and RUNAP will use Labor Management meetings to discuss health and safety risks and issues, that RGH will perform an annual facility-specific risk assessment, and that the RGH Senior Director of Safety and Security will meet with RUNAP each year to discuss plans to minimize any dangers in the workplace. RUNAP rejected this proposal.
- Parking: RUNAP had previously proposed that RGH provide free parking to employees, patients and their families. RGH’s counterproposal states that employees only will receive free parking on Rochester Regional Health parking garages and/or surface lots. Parking assignments will depend on an employee’s work schedule and the availability of parking spaces. RGH also proposed that it would inform the Union of any changes to parking with thirty (30) days advanced notice. RUNAP rejected this proposal.
- Classification of Employees: RGH revisited its previous counterproposal to specify that, if a per diem employee works at least thirty (30) hours per week on average in a calendar year, they will have the option to convert to full-time or part-time status if there’s an open position within the bargaining unit that they are qualified to fill. RUNAP continues to reject the RGH proposal and continues to adhere to its proposal on this subject.
RUNAP presented no counterproposals on the numerous open articles that the two parties have previously discussed.
What’s Next
RGH and RUNAP will be exchanging dates for the next bargaining session. We will issue another update following the next bargaining session to keep you informed. Please visit www.RGHNursesMatter.org for more information. You can sign up to receive email or text alerts when a new bargaining update is posted to the website and also submit any questions.