The California Nurses Association (CNA) began yet another strike
against Sutter Health on May 17, 2013, marking the
organization's ninth strike against the nonprofit healthcare
company since 2011. The strike is expected to last until Friday,
May 24, 2013, and includes several Sutter facilities throughout
Northern California. Over 2,800 nurses are likely to be affected by
the strike.
CNA, which is affiliated with the AFL-CIO, is among
California's largest health employee unions. Over the past few
years, it has aggressively targeted California healthcare
employers, demanding higher pay and increased benefits.
On its website, CNA listed its demands for lower
health coverage costs, increased rest time between shifts, and less
overtime. It also claims that Sutter plans to eliminate paid sick
leave. According to CNA, its demands are justified by Sutter's
"nearly $4.2 billion in profits since 2005," and high
executive pay.
