Upstate Members Win 28% Increase

1199 Nursing home members at Schoellkopf Health Center in Niagara Falls, Upstate New York, ratified a new agreement in early May, which included average wage increases of up to 28 per cent over the three-year contract.

“Schoellkopf once again is leading the way and setting the standard for what health care should be— compassionate, committed, and fair,” said Earl Pugh, an 1199 Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) adding, “This new contract is a meaningful step forward. It reflects not only fairness and respect for the important work we do, but it will help attract new talent who recognize the value placed on staff here. As a nurse, I already feel a noticeable boost in morale. It’s deeply encouraging to know that our hard work is being acknowledged and rewarded.”

Tina Black, another 1199 LPN, said: “This agreement represents a shared commitment to fair treatment, mutual respect and the pursuit of equitable working conditions, open dialogue and shared goal of long-term success for both parties involved.”

The agreement includes new weekend differential, increased shift differential and preceptor pay, as well as access to the 1199SEIU Childcare Benefit Fund.