The 3-year labor contract covering nearly 8,000 caregivers is set to expire mid-June as unions expect to begin economic talks next week

Buffalo, NY - Union healthcare workers at Western New York’s largest employer, Kaleida Health have agreed to extend the current labor agreement through June 14^th at 11:59PM. The contract extension comes as unions plan to present an economic package next week. Hospital workers are represented by Communications Workers of America, AFL-CIO and 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East.

“We believe it is prudent to extend the current contract. Discussions regarding economic matters will commence next week and we need to take the time needed to negotiate the best contract we can for our membership.  We understand that we will not finalize everything before the current expiration date, and this extension will provide our members with a sense of stability and assurance as we continue to negotiate a successor agreement,” said Cori Gambini, President of CWA Local 1168.

“Extending the current contract ensures the rights of our members will be protected and all current contract language remains in effect as we continue to bargain every day,” said Cathy DiFlavio, RN and 1199SEIU Administrative Organizer. 

Healthcare workers are demanding improved staffing levels, increased safety protections, job security, as well as dignity and respect. 

Workers also believe that Kaleida Health must offer a comprehensive wage and benefit package to recruit and retain experienced workers to provide care for patients, including improvements in pension. In addition, healthcare workers should not be asked to accept concessionary proposals from management.

The current 3-year collective bargaining agreement covers nearly 8,000 healthcare workers at Buffalo General Medical Center, Oishei Children’s Hospital, Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, HighPointe on Michigan, DeGraff Medical Park, and various community-based clinics across Western New York. 

Union members work as Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Professionals, Technical Employees, Clinicians, Business Office Clerical, and Service and Maintenance at three major hospitals, 2 nursing homes and a variety of clinics across Erie and Niagara Counties.  

A Federal Mediator from Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) was present during contract talks until government cuts.  Unions and management hired a mediator familiar with both parties, who joined the talks last week.  

Bargaining resumes Tuesday and continues daily from Monday through Friday beginning at 9AM each day.