After more than 30 bargaining sessions, workers represented by NUHW at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital in June ratified their first union contract, which includes an average wage increase of 19 percent over three years.
The agreement covers nearly 400 workers, including nursing assistants, respiratory therapists, medical technicians, and licensed vocational nurses, who united to negotiate collectively with the hospital in a demonstration of strength and solidarity.
The contract brings workers at Verdugo closer in pay to Keck–USC hospitals, where NUHW has represented workers for over a decade. In addition to the wage gains, the new contract includes ratification bonuses of $3,000 for full-time workers, $1,500 for part-time workers, and $750 for per diems, as well as the following provisions:
- Improvements to stand-by/on-call pay.
- Additional extra pay for working less desirable shifts.
- Guaranteed 15-minute breaks.
- Stronger disciplinary protections with fair processes and arbitration rights if a grievance can’t be resolved.
- Anti-discrimination and protections against subcontracting.
- Seniority rights.
- Labor–Management committees to address concerns and make improvements in different departments.
NUHW members at the 158-bed hospital worked hard for the contract. They held an informational picket late last year and spoke out about their concerns at a Glendale City Council meeting.
Valerina Shahmirzayans, an ultrasound tech who helped lead the organizing effort and participated in contract negotiations, called the contract “a really good start” to build upon.
“I’m really happy with what we achieved,” Shahmirzayans said. “Money aside, just being in the union is worth it.”
Shahmirzayans started organizing her coworkers because management overworked them and played favorites. “Now we have a very strong discipline process and a lot of other good stuff in the contract,” she said.
USC Urology Clinic workers join NUHW
Also, in June, NUHW continued growing within the Keck–USC Medical System as 28 workers at the USC Urology Clinic voted to join the union. The workers, who include licensed vocational nurses, support and scheduler coordinators, medical assistants, and ultrasound techs, will be incorporated into the USC Ambulatory Clinic contract.
