OSF St. Francis Nurses ratify three-year contract

ESCANABA — By an overwhelming majority, nurses at OSF St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba ratified a three-year contract last night. Nurses had been in contract negotiations since April 1st.

“This is a fair contract that will be good for nurses, our patients, and our community,” said Sara Kofsky, RN and president of the local MNA union. “We believe that this will help us recruit and retain experienced nurses and make sure that patients always come first.”

In the ratified contract, all OSF St. Francis nurses were able to secure raises to bring up historically low salaries to be competitive with other hospitals in the area. Nurses had previously said that recruiting and retaining RNs was a key priority during the contract negotiations.

“Our community supported us every step of the way,” said Laura Vizineau, RN. Over 50 local businesses displayed signs in support of OSF nurses. “We are truly grateful.”

Over 130 nurses work at OSF St. Francis in Escanaba. The newly ratified contract takes effect immediately.

The Michigan Nurses Association (MNA) is the largest, most effective union for registered nurses in Michigan, advocating for nurses and their patients at the State Capitol, in the community, and at the bargaining table.