I have typed out a verbatim version of a letter that was sent to all nurses in one of Arizona's largest hospitals - one of which, just like the letter states, is "the only game in town." In other words, it's the only hospital for possible nursing employment for at least 180 miles. Thus, these nurses - thousands - have been intimidated by their union-busting management to NOT even think about joining a union, or, for them the nightmare scenario - become affiliated with the California Nurse's Association!
Here's the letter sent to all nurses at the Yuma (Arizona) Regional Medical Center:
Dear YRMC Registered Nurse:
In the past few days, many of our registered nurses have received a mailer at their home address promoting the National Organizing Committee (NNOC) and California Nurses Association (CNA) under the pretext of pending legislation, HB 2041 demanding nurse patient staffing ratios.
I would like to answer some general questions and encourage you to talk to your supervisor if you have additional concerns or want further information.
- The NNOC/CNA is a union. Their primary goal is to increase membership. This is big business and they want your dues. Currently this union is making a concerted effort to expand membership in Arizona. I do not believe that a third party, i.e. a union, will make things better for our team at YRMC.
- Legislation in California has been devastating. Mandating staffing ratios does not produce one more nurse. It simply requires the hospital to turn away patients when they cannot recruit enough nurses. In Yuma, we cannot go on diversion. We are the only provider in town. Every effort is being made to make sure we are staffed adequately. Some of our strategies include:
- Increasing nursing student capacity at AWC and NAU - The hospital provides financial support to ensure these programs remain viable.
- National recruitment for both core and seasonal registered nurses is year round.
- As an organization, we are committed to make this a great place to work by:
- Advancing the profession with tuition sponsorship for our current employees.
- Our Nursing Excellence program recognizes nursing as a profession.
- Annually comparing market data to ensure our pay and benefits are competitive.
-Read the fine print on the attached card. It states, "Note that the bottom portion of this card with your information will NOT go to your Legislator." If this is a legislative issue, why wouldn't they want your legislator to know of your support?
I am proud of the care and commitment you provide to our patients.
Please talk to your supervisor if you have additional questions or feel free to give me a call at x7412.
Sincerely,
Sharon R. Gardner, MPA, SPHR
Vice President Human Resources
2400 South Avenue A
Yuma, Arizona 85364
928-344-2000
Okay, that's the letter that was sent. Is this not a violation of SOME laws? Some violation of perhaps the National Labor Relations Board? I don't know. Hopefully this hospital gets sued AND this person who wrote the letter and her management colleagues get bombarded with phone calls with folks upset with union-busting and BLATANT worker intimidation.