Newton-Wellesley Hospital Nurses Authorize One-Day Strike

NEWTON, MA — Nurses at Newton-Wellesley Hospital voted 99 percent in favor on Tuesday of authorizing a one-day strike pending the progress in negotiations on a new contract.

The 1,500 nurses voted to potentially walk off the job following an informational picket held on Tuesday to protest proposed higher insurance costs.

The vote authorizes the union's Bargaining Committee to schedule a strike, if deemed necessary, based on progress in negotiations. The Committee must provide at least 10 days' notice of any further work action.

"This powerful show of unity by Newton-Wellesley nurses demonstrates our commitment to our patients and our desire to provide care in a supportive environment," said Nora Watts, NWH RN and Co-Chair of the MNA Bargaining Committee, in a press statement. "We are prepared to hold a one-day strike if necessary to stand strong against Mass General Brigham's attempt to improve its profits on the backs of nurses."

According to the union, MGB is forcing the higher costs "despite consistently securing the most significant financial gains of any Massachusetts hospital system."

"Newton-Wellesley Hospital nurses came out in force today to authorize a potential strike in response to MGB's disrespect to nurses at the bargaining table," said Kathy Reda, NWH RN and Co-Chair of the MNA Bargaining Committee. "Mass General Brigham has the resources to ensure Newton-Wellesley nurses can affordably access healthcare.

We call on MGB to agree to a fair contract that allows us to continue to provide high-quality patient care."