The 3-year labor contract covering over 450 caregivers at Steuben County’s major hospital is set to expire April 30th as workers demand improved staffing levels and quality affordable health insurance 

Corning, NY – The current 3-year labor deal covering more than 450 union healthcare workers at Guthrie’s Corning Hospital is set to expire April 30th. The expiring contract comes as workers will celebrate their 30^th year since first forming their union. Caregivers are represented by 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East. 

Yesterday, union members overwhelmingly voted to authorize an informational picket. The member led bargaining committee will determine when to issue the 10-day notice to management at the hospital. Caregivers can participate in picketing during their break/lunch or before/after work.

Contract talks between Guthrie Corning Hospital and the union representing healthcare workers have been underway since mid-March. Healthcare workers are fighting for improved staffing levels, quality affordable health insurance coverage and benefits, and competitive wages to help retain and recruit more workers.  

   “We are working very hard to get a new contract,” said Peggy Clarkson, Emergency Room Unit Clerk. “Corning Hospital must provide recognition for employees who continue to provide the quality care our community needs. They must also offer better wages to stop the bleeding off of our staff who leave to go elsewhere for higher pay to help with staffing levels we face daily. Many of us feel underappreciated,” said Clarkson.

“Management’s proposals must take in to account sacrifices workers continue to make everyday,” said Kathy Ville, 1199SEIU Administrative Organizer. “Management’s proposed changes will result in high health insurance deductibles and copays that many workers can not afford. Healthcare workers are exposed to more on the job and need quality health insurance so they can take care of themselves,” said Ville. 

Union members work as Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Service and Maintenance Workers, Clerical Workers, and Technicians. 

Both sides return to bargaining on April 23 and April 24 beginning at 7:00 AM at the hospital. 

###

1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East is the largest and fastest-growing healthcare union in America. We represent over 400,000 nurses and caregivers throughout Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Florida. Our mission is to achieve quality care and good jobs for all.

https://www.1199seiu.org