We had two more bargaining sessions this week, on Tuesday (8/18) and Thursday (8/20).
We saw compensation proposals from Samaritan that put considerable money on the table. But this offer came in a package that would only raise up a section of job classes covered under our union.
We want to see a contract where wage increases put into our pay scale benefit the majority of staff, so we have much to consider.
Our expanded Holiday and PTO proposals were outright rejected for the time being. This was particularly disappointing considering that Samaritan is behind in comparison with industry standards and neighboring facilities, which offer employees paid holidays and higher PTO accrual rates.
BUTTON UP
Join us in wearing union buttons next week to show support for our union and respect for ourselves/our coworkers.
An action as small as wearing a button has a bigger impact than you might think. Displays of solidarity are what help us build power. That power is what helps us win better working conditions and pay.
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Message sent to OPEIU Local 8 represented at Samaritan Healthcare on Aug 21, 2026