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Union workers at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson, New York, may soon vote on a tentative contract agreement after over a year of negotiations. The proposed contract, if ratified, would provide more than 750 workers with a 24.2% pay increase over four years and set a minimum hourly wage of $18. The union representing the workers, 1199SEIU, announced that the contract includes retroactive pay increases, with a 7% increase for 2024 and a 5% increase for 2025, both retroactive to January 1. Additional raises of 5.25% and 5% are scheduled for 2026 and 2027, respectively.
The agreement also promises higher employer contributions to health insurance costs and maintains pension contributions. The hospital, part of the Albany Med Health System, expressed satisfaction with the agreement, stating it respects the expertise of their team and their mission to serve the community.
Union members have been working without a contract since January 2024, leading to staff shortages and the hiring of traveling nurses. The union's efforts have garnered support from local officials, including Congressman Josh Riley and Hudson Mayor Kamal Johnson. The vote on the contract is expected to take place early next week.
According to the Times Union, Greg Speller, executive vice president for the Hudson Valley and Capital Region of 1199SEIU, called the wage increases "historic" but noted concerns about the hospital's competitiveness in wages and benefits.
The union's statement emphasized the importance of continuing to fight for wage parity and essential investments at Columbia Memorial.
News10 ABC reported that the hospital system is committed to advancing a contract that respects the team's expertise and mission.