AFSCME Secures Agreement to Keep Minnesota's Largest Public Hospital Open

Critical Win for Minnesota's HCMC Secures Lifesaving Care Continuity

In a significant victory for healthcare access in Minnesota, a bipartisan agreement has been reached to safeguard the future of Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC), the state's largest public hospital. This outcome is the result of determined advocacy by AFSCME members and their allies, who worked tirelessly to ensure that HCMC remains a vital resource for patients across the region.

AFSCME members, who are integral to the daily operations at HCMC, organized with patients and labor partners to highlight the potential risks to essential care services. Their efforts included rallies, press conferences, and direct engagement with lawmakers, aimed at preventing the closure of this critical facility.

The agreement comes as a relief to many, ensuring that families, seniors, children, and vulnerable populations in Minnesota continue to have access to necessary healthcare services. Bart Andersen, executive director of AFSCME Council 5, expressed the significance of this development by stating, "This bipartisan agreement to save HCMC from closing is a major victory for working people, patients and communities all across Minnesota and the Upper Midwest region."

Local union leaders emphasized the broader implications of the fight to save HCMC. Sara Franck, president of Local 2474, remarked, "Our fight to save HCMC was about protecting a lifeline for our patients regardless of their income, insurance status, ZIP code or background." This sentiment underscores the critical role HCMC plays during pivotal moments in the lives of Minnesota residents.

Despite this milestone, the work is not yet complete. Kitsune Tara, president of AFSCME Local 977, acknowledged the need for ongoing efforts, noting, "This historic agreement proves what is possible when workers, patients, community members, Minnesota's labor movement and lawmakers come together to put people before politics." Tara called for continued advocacy to ensure the agreement is enacted into law, securing HCMC's future for generations to come.

AFSCME Locals 2474 and 977, representing over 3,000 HCMC workers, played a pivotal role in building the public momentum necessary for this achievement. Their dedication exemplifies the power of collective action in safeguarding public health resources.