PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The United Nurses & Allied Professionals (UNAP) Local 5098, representing nurses and healthcare workers at Rhode Island Hospital and Hasbro Children’s Hospital, have overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike.
Union leaders say the vote sends a clear message: workers feel disrespected, devalued, and underappreciated under the current contract proposal from Brown University Health.
Frank Sims, President of UNAP Local 5098, said management’s latest offer is “insulting” and pushes nearly $1 million in health insurance costs onto nurses and healthcare professionals. “We’re seeing our colleagues leave for jobs in Massachusetts and Connecticut where they are valued. Brown needs to do better—for the workers and the patients,” Sims said.
The union says the hospital’s proposal could worsen Rhode Island’s already critical nursing shortage, hurt recruitment, and ultimately impact patient care.
The UNAP is now preparing to move toward a strike if Brown University Health doesn’t return to the bargaining table with a serious offer. The group previously held a rally on June 2 and a picket on March 28.
A press conference is scheduled for Tuesday, June 24, at 1 P.M. outside Rhode Island Hospital on Eddy Street.
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