Aroostook County RNs authorize strike amid stalled contract talks

Registered Nurses in Maine Contemplate Strike Amidst Contract Disputes

Registered nurses at Northern Maine Medical Center (NMMC) and Houlton Regional Hospital (HRH) have taken a significant step by voting to empower their bargaining representatives to initiate a strike if ongoing contract negotiations do not address their concerns. This decision comes after prolonged discussions where the nurses feel their issues have not been adequately resolved.

These nurses, affiliated with the Maine State Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee (MSNA/NNOC), have been advocating for their rights and workplace improvements. Nurses at NMMC, who joined MSNA/NNOC in January 2024, are negotiating their maiden union contract. Meanwhile, HRH nurses have previously expressed concerns over the proposed shutdown of their labor and delivery services, as highlighted in an April meeting.

Brad Martinez, RN at NMMC's emergency department and a member of the bargaining team, commented, “We have been at the bargaining table for 16 months. While we have made very reasonable proposals, the hospital has been very unreasonable by dragging its feet and not making any real progress on our contract this entire time.” Martinez emphasized the need for improvements in patient safety and the necessity of recruiting and retaining nursing staff.

Similar grievances are echoed by the nurses at HRH, who are also facing challenges in staffing and compensation. Brooke Howland, RN in acute care at HRH, noted, “Our last contract expired in November 2024. The administration has made delay after delay. We want safe staffing so we can give our patients the best care. Recruitment and retention of staff nurses is a huge issue for us.”

Both facilities are under the leadership of CEO Jeff Zewe. Despite shared challenges, no specific dates have been announced for potential strikes at either location.

The Maine State Nurses Association represents a wide network of 4,000 healthcare professionals across Maine, from Portland to Fort Kent. It is a part of the National Nurses Organizing Committee, affiliated with National Nurses United, the largest registered nurses' union in the U.S., boasting over 225,000 members nationwide.