Local 5131 August 2025 Union Update
We hope you have all taken the time to review the changes to our contract that have been posted on our official local website. Currently, we are in the process of proofreading the language we negotiated to ensure it is printed correctly in the new contracts. Once this process is complete, it will be sent off to be printed, and for the first time we will be able to reserve space in the hospital to hand the new contracts out!
In the recent Labor Management meeting there were long discussions over the new language. It is now understood that if a nurse has picked up an incentive shift and volunteers for standby, they will be paid both the incentive pay and the time and a half rate if they are called in. Remember, standby is now optional and you have the right to decline. The new ratios were also discussed. Management was reminded that per current contract language, ratios are unit specific.
Please continue filling out the staffing forms. We are greatly appreciative of every form that is filled out. The new contract language states that these forms are to be used for any unsafe or improper staffing. This means any time you feel you do not have enough help, whether it be from truly being down staff or because you just don’t have enough hands to provide the high level of care we expect from ourselves (due to complete care patients, climbers, patients needing extensive wound care, etc.), you should be filling out a short staffing form. As agreed upon in our contract, we are working on making this more user friendly. Inspira has moved ahead with some basic formatting changes, but expect more to come in the future.
As a reminder, if you are called into the office to speak with management, always ask if it is in regards to something that could result in a disciplinary action. You have the right to have a union rep with you, and they have to give you the opportunity to get one. Our Rep list is always available on our official local webpage and is posted on our bulletin boards.
We are sad to share the news that Karen Johnson stepped down from her Vice President position to focus on her family and other pursuits. We are thankful for all of her hard work and dedication and wish her all the best in her personal endeavors.
Hope you had a wonderful summer. For those who don’t like the heat, it’s almost pumpkin spice season with the kids back in school. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns!
In solidarity,
5131 Local Executive Board