We’ve met with Management’s Bargaining team several times over the past few months. We are making significant progress and have reached tentative agreements on several non-economic articles of the contract. However, Management continues to claim that, due to forecasted cuts to funding and reimbursement rates in HR 1 (also known as the “big, beautiful bill”), they cannot commit to guaranteed raises over the next few years.
Our Union Bargaining Team remains firm in our stance, arguing that our members deserve a raise that not only acknowledges our hard work and sacrifices but also keeps up with inflation. We’ve presented several counter proposals that address our members’ concerns while also considering the hospital’s current financial situation.
At our last session, Management presented a counter proposal along with some data that we’re currently reviewing. Our next bargaining date is scheduled for Wednesday, August 12. We’re hopeful Management will respond fairly, and we can reach an agreement.
Our team will continue to fight for a fair contract, but your support is crucial. Please stay informed with our bargaining updates. Keep your co-workers informed and be prepared to take action if necessary. We will provide another update after our next bargaining session.
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For more info, please contact a coworker on the Bargaining Team or your Union Rep:
Juan Vazquez at Juan@OPEIU8.org or (206) 845-6502
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Message sent to OPEIU Local 8 represented at Willapa Harbor Hospital on July 22, 2026