September has been a good month for 1199SEIU healthcare workers in New York’s Hudson Valley. Members at Catskill Regional Medical Center in Harris voted to ratify a contract that maintains their no cost health benefits and a guaranteed pension.

The ratification was met with enthusiasm and relief by the workers who have a long history of sticking together and overcoming obstacles at the hospital. That same week, their union sisters and brothers in the region, at St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital, also ratified a contract that preserves health and retirement benefits.

In addition to wage increases that total 10.5% across the life of the agreement, the new collective bargaining agreement includes better longevity pay, and certification and shift differentials. Sick leave and vacation time are also improved under this contract.

“It was important to everyone to reach a settlement with livable wages and good benefits--not only for the personal well-being of the workers, but also to maintain and recruit a committed workforce,” said 1199 organizer Kevin Williams.