Message to OPEIU Local 8 members at Providence Regional Medical Center Everett (sent via email Feb. 12, 2026)
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Workers said it loud and clear – we deserve dignity, respect, and fair wages for our work! A super majority of our coworkers signed the petition demanding fair compensation and safety in the workplace. Our bargaining team presented the petition to Chief Human Resources Officer Maurice Lewin at the table on Tuesday, February 10.
Since beginning negotiations in October 2025, we’ve faced delays because of incomplete or inaccurate information from the employer. Our Union held strong. By the end of the day yesterday, Feb. 11, we had what we needed to make sense of management’s position.
We are cautiously optimistic as we prepare for our next round of negotiations. Our proposal is ambitious but fair, ensuring strong wage increases for each year of the new contract. We expect a response that shows major movement from Management when we return to the table on March 3.
WHEN WE FIGHT, WE WIN!
Major victories for our Union:
- The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled that Patient Sitters (AKA PSAs/Constant Observers) must be recognized as part of our bargaining unit at PRMCE. For years, PRMCE has taken work historically performed by our members (CNAs) and utilized low paid, non-union workers instead. Patient Sitters are now recognized as represented by OPEIU 8, meaning that PRMCE has to negotiate the conditions of their employment and their wages. This is huge for our union, ensuring that CNAs AND PSAs are respected, valued, and paid for the work they do!
- The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) also found that Providence committed an Unfair Labor Practice by refusing to provide requested information during the Food and Nutrition Rebid in 2025. As a result of this finding, Providence must prominently post informational posters in places around both campuses where employer notices are customarily posted publicizing the order.
These wins show the power of our Union organizing to defend workers and protect our rights.
STAY ACTIVE
Our bargaining team is hard at work to reach a fair deal that raises everybody’s wages. Our petition sent a strong message of unity to management and we’ll continue to put the pressure on until we have a deal we can proudly recommend to our membership. Here are some simple things you can do right now:
- Remind your non-union colleagues to sign their union card. Reach out to Nallely if you need a list of who needs to sign a union card from your unit/department. You can reach Nallely via email at nallely@opeiu8.org
- Make sure your contact information is updated (click here) to get information on actions to support bargaining. Be sure you’re getting all of our updates — whether it be on your employer webpage or via email!
YOUR BARGAINING TEAM!