PLAINS TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Hundreds of local nurses have a new contract this weekend after a labor stalemate resulted in a pair of strikes earlier this year.
Just two months after calling their first strike, 800 Geisinger registered nurses informed 28/22 News on Saturday that they reached an agreement on a new three-year deal.
It includes average wage increases of 18%, a new workplace violence committee, and protection of benefits that were on the chopping block during negotiations.
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The new agreement also includes a new minimum of five hours of rest time for nurses before they are required to provide care while on-call.
The contract covers nurses at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre, and Geisinger Healthplex Centerpoint in Pittston.
“This victory proves that when nurses stand together, united with our community, we can achieve really big things,” Chrissy Minet, with the Interventional Radiology department, said.
“This was my first time on our union contract negotiating committee, and the experience taught me that nurses have to stand up for what’s right – we can’t be afraid to speak up for our patients,” registered nurse Jimmy Romanelli explained.
US Representative Rob Bresnahan released the following statement after the announcement of the contract deal:
I am encouraged that Geisinger and our dedicated registered nurses have reached a fair and reasonable compromise on a new contract. This will ensure the more than 800 nurses are properly compensated for the essential care they provide the people of Northeastern Pennsylvania. I am glad to see Geisinger come to the table in good faith to reach a deal, and I am thankful to see the nurses work together to secure what they have earned and deserve. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to patient care, respect for the vital role nurses play, and a recognition that collaboration is key to building a stronger, healthier future for all.
Representative Rob Bresnahan
