FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Laurie Laker
(c) 612-741-0662
laurie.laker@mnnurses.org
(St. Paul) – May 1, 2025 – Over 15,000 nurses in the Twin Cities and Duluth recently launched contract negotiations with one clear priority: improving staffing levels to ensure better care and safer hospitals.
Nurses are demanding action as hospitals continue to operate with unsafe staffing, compromising care and driving experienced nurses out of the profession. While hospital executives blame a “nurse shortage,” nurses know the truth: we have more licensed nurses than ever, but too many are unwilling to work in conditions created by corporate hospital leadership. Many are leaving for non-direct care jobs because they lack the support they desperately need.
As patient care deteriorates, hospital administrators are focused on cashing bigger paychecks. Nurses are fighting to shift priorities—away from executive bonuses and toward the bedside.
Nurses are pushing for minimum ratios to guarantee that each patient receives the care they deserve. Minimum ratios would improve care, save money, lessen workplace violence and keep nurses at the bedside. Research shows lower nurse-to-patient assignments reduce hospital infections, readmissions, and even deaths. They also lower healthcare costs. In New York, a proposed 4:1 staffing level was projected to save $720 million over two years, primarily from shorter stays and fewer complications.
“It’s common sense—more nurses mean better care. And better care costs less,” said MNA President and RN Chris Rubesch.
Safer staffing also means safer workplaces. Hospitals with lower staffing levels report twice the rate of workplace injuries. After California passed staffing laws, RN injury rates dropped by 31%.
“As one of the most trusted professionals in the country, nurses are standing up for our patients and for the future of our profession,” said Katelyn Warren, RN. “We can’t keep people safe without the support we need on the floor.”
Negotiations come at a time when hospitals are struggling to retain nurses. MNA will fight for fair wages, enforceable staffing standards, and real accountability from hospitals.
“Securing safe staffing will save lives,” said Rubesch. “This is about doing what’s right for patients and the people who care for them.”
Negotiation talks will continue through spring. Nurses are watching closely—and are ready to act if hospitals refuse to meet their responsibility to deliver safe, quality care.