State Leaders Urge Kaiser CEO to Settle Contract Amid Ongoing Strike

November 28, 2024 November 28, 2024

Editorial Staff

Legislative Leaders Urge Kaiser to Resolve Contract Dispute

As Thanksgiving approaches, significant developments have emerged in the ongoing labor dispute involving Kaiser Permanente. State Senate President Pro Tem Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas have taken a notable step forward by collaboratively drafting a letter addressed to Kaiser CEO Greg Adams. The letter urges Adams to consider the union's proposals for a new contract, aiming to enhance the provision of behavioral health services for patients.

This initiative mirrors a previous effort by Speaker Rivas, who authored a similar letter. Plans are underway to gather support from a majority of Democratic senators to co-sign the letter before its final submission to Adams.

The involvement of key legislative figures, alongside numerous colleagues, amplifies the pressure on Kaiser to engage in negotiations with improved contract terms. This concerted effort aims to bring a resolution to the contract negotiations, which have significant implications for mental health service delivery.

Support from Hawaii and Social Workers

In a show of solidarity, therapists from Hawai’i, who have firsthand experience with labor actions against Kaiser, have extended their support through a heartfelt video message filled with "lovely Maui energy." Meanwhile, the California Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers has intensified its support for the strike. This included a noteworthy Instagram post earlier this week, with plans to release a formal letter to Greg Adams soon.

Important Updates and Resources

No picket lines will be held this Thursday or Friday.

Applications for the hardship fund are due by Friday at 11:59 p.m., with disbursements scheduled for the following Friday. Full details and application forms are available here and here.

Photo Gallery

Explore the gallery of photos from recent picket lines below. Additional images are available on NUHW’s social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.