AFSCME Workers Secure New Contract with Wage Increases at OHSU

OHSU Workers Secure New Contract Amid Financial Challenges

In the face of daunting financial uncertainties, workers at Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU) have successfully negotiated a new contract, marking a significant achievement for the 8,000 employees represented by AFSCME. Despite claims from their employer about financial constraints, these workers, ranging from pharmacists to administrative staff, remained steadfast in their demands.

OHSU had previously asserted financial difficulties, even as it experienced substantial increases in revenue and net worth. However, a new reality emerged when the White House implemented drastic cuts to higher education and research funding in early 2025, leading to real financial concerns for the Portland-based institution. This backdrop framed the challenging negotiations led by Local 328 of AFSCME Oregon.

The workers' determination was evident from the outset. "It was a very tough fight," stated Jennie Olson, president of Local 328 and a research grant administrator at OHSU. "We agreed at the beginning that our goal was to raise up the lowest-paid workers at OHSU closer to what the MIT living wage standard is for Portland, Oregon. That’s $27 an hour.”

Ultimately, their efforts bore fruit. A new tentative agreement was ratified in January, introducing a $25 minimum wage by the contract’s end, nearing their objective of $27 per hour. This agreement sets a notable precedent for the city of Portland.

Additionally, the workers secured substantial ratification bonuses, with full-time employees receiving $4,500 and part-time workers $2,250. The contract also fortified retirement benefits, ensuring they remain unchanged by the employer. Other enhancements included expanded leave benefits and stronger job and time-off protections.

This contract underscores the power of collective bargaining. "When you’re not in a union, you’re just one person," emphasized Olson. "You’re at the will of management or a CEO. But when you’re in a union, you’re not one person. You can be 8,000 people, demanding to be paid with dignity, to have protections at the workplace. Being in a union is so profoundly different.”

Click here to read more about the negotiations and the challenges faced by the workers.