FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(St. Paul) – December 19, 2024 – Registered Nurses (RNs) in the Cath-Lab Department at Allina’s United Hospital have voted overwhelmingly to join the existing Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) bargaining unit at United Hospital in St. Paul.
The nurses’ decision to organize and seek union representation highlights their shared commitment to improving their workplace and patient care. Nurses in the Cath-Lab have had longstanding issues with hospital management, including no language around mandatory low needs, as well as having lost numerous shifts due to situations beyond their control. After filing for an election with the National Labor Relations Board earlier this year, an overwhelming percentage of the United Cath-Lab nurses voted to join the MNA union, further strengthening the collective voice of healthcare workers at United Hospital.
“This is a proud moment for all of us,” said Edward Behnke, an RN in the Cath-Lab Department at United Hospital. “By joining the MNA bargaining unit, we’re uniting with our colleagues across the hospital to advocate for better working conditions, improved patient safety, and the resources we need to provide the best care possible.”
RNs in the Cath-Lab Department recognized the value of joining their peers in the MNA bargaining unit to ensure they have a stronger voice in addressing workplace concerns, including fair compensation, sustainable workloads, and safe staffing levels. Together, they aim to foster a work environment that supports both nurses and their patients. With this decision, the nurses at United Hospital continue to build on the legacy of MNA’s advocacy for healthcare workers across Minnesota, working to ensure the highest standards of care and equity for nurses and patients alike.