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Thousands of nurses from three major hospital systems in New York City began a strike on Monday (January 12) after contract negotiations failed. The strike involves approximately 15,000 nurses from The Mount Sinai Hospital, NewYork-Presbyterian, and Montefiore Medical Center. The nurses, represented by the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA), are demanding better staffing levels, workplace safety, and fair pay.
The hospitals have remained open by hiring temporary nurses to fill the gap. However, the strike could lead to patient transfers, canceled procedures, and ambulance diversions during a severe flu season. The union claims that hospital management is not addressing essential issues, such as safe staffing and health benefits, and is using the strike to pressure nurses into accepting unfavorable terms.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has called for negotiations that acknowledge the essential work nurses do.
Hospital management claims the union's demands are too costly, with Montefiore spokesperson Joe Solmonese citing "reckless demands" totaling $3.6 billion.
NYSNA President Nancy Hagans criticized hospital executives for prioritizing profits over patient care and safety. The union has filed unfair labor practice charges, accusing hospitals of intimidation and stalling negotiations.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who campaigned on a pro-worker platform, visited the picket lines, supporting the nurses' demands for dignity and fair treatment.