News & Events
Unfair labor practice charge filed against U of M Health System
06.30.2011
Contact:
Ann Sincox
517.256.2312
ann.sincox@minurses.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ann Arbor, MI – An Unfair Labor Practice charge (ULP) has been filed with the Michigan Employment Relations Commission (MERC) against the University of Michigan Health System. The charge, filed by the Michigan Nurses Association (MNA) is on behalf of certain nurses working in the Vascular Access Services Team (VAST), which specializes in IV placement and infusion therapy.
In April 2011, individual members of VAST were informed that their hours of work would be changing, a decision that was unilaterally made without negotiating with MNA. “This is a direct violation of the Michigan Public Employees Relations Act (PERA),” said Lisa Harrison, MNA Labor Representative. “Hours of work are a mandatory subject of bargaining under PERA. By law, employers cannot simply decide they are going to change hours without coming to an agreement with the union.”
In addition to the ULP, a grievance was also filed against the health system.
“We believe that MERC will agree with MNA and issue a charge against the U of M Health System,” said John Karebian, MNA Executive Director. “This behavior by the Employer is a sad commentary on the lack of respect the nurses receive. The University of Michigan Professional Nurses Council (UMPNC) is made up of well-educated registered nurses who are the backbone of quality care at this health system. They deserve better treatment from their Employer.”
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The Michigan Nurses Association is the largest, most effective union for RNs in Michigan. As the voice of all registered nurses in Michigan, MNA advocates for nurses and their patients at the State Capitol, in the community, and at the bargaining table. MNA is a constituent member of National Nurses United and an affiliate of the AFL-CIO.
