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Kaiser Permanente executives continue to propose major cuts to our jobs, wage rates, and benefits in National Bargaining. It is becoming increasingly clear that going on strike may be the only way to address Kaiser’s unfair labor practices and win a strong contract that protects our families and our patients. Be sure you’re ready for this possibility by understanding the facts — and our rights — when it comes to going on strike.
Basic Information
What is a strike?
A strike is when workers unite and withhold our labor to protest against unfair treatment by our employer. By taking collective action, workers take a powerful stand for fair treatment and real respect. A strike is usually a last resort after an employer has refused efforts to resolve issues and treat workers fairly.
Why would we go on strike?
We would strike to protest Kaiser’s unfair labor practices, to maintain our families’ standard of living, and for our retirement and job security. We would strike to protect our patients from understaffing, impersonal automated care, and to make sure we invest in the next generation of healthcare workers.
UPDATED: When would our strike be?
If we don’t settle a contract, our strike will start October 14 and end the morning of October 21. We will strike with the other unions in our Coalition.
What am I expected to do during a strike?
Show up to the picket line every day. Bring your family and make sure everyone participates in all strike actions. Winning this fight demands the full participation of all of us to show Kaiser management that we are united, determined to be treated fairly, and will not back down.
UPDATED: Do we have more bargaining dates set?
We currently have bargaining dates set for September 16, 23, and 24.
Work Questions
UPDATED: Will I get paid if I go on strike?
Going on strike is a big sacrifice so we can have a better contract and future for all of us. Members who strike will not get paid. Our Union has saved money in a strike fund and it will be available for members to apply for hardship benefits and it will be used to provide meals and snacks to picketers and run the activities and supplies required to make the strike successful.
Can I use vacation or sick days for the strike?
No. Sick days and vacation days cannot be used during a strike.
UPDATED: How do I apply for hardship benefits?
SEIU members in good standing who participate in the strike can apply for hardship funds. To be eligible you will need to:
- Sign in and attend the picket line for at least 6 hours on each day you were scheduled to work; members are encouraged to attend as many days and hours as possible.
- Fill out an application stating you a have a hardship (prior to the end of the strike). Hardship applications will be available at the strike line.
- Provide a copy of your October schedule with your hardship application.
Hardship benefits will be up to one half of lost wages for shifts missed during the strike (not including overtime).
UPDATED: If I am not scheduled to work, do I need to show up to picket?
Our strike is stronger the more people who show up. If you are able to, plan to come and picket even if it is your day off.
Can I strike if I am on probation or on call?
Yes. Probationary and on-call employees have the same right as everyone else to strike.
Will I lose my health benefits?
No. A short strike will not free Kaiser of its responsibility to pay our healthcare premiums.
UPDATED: Can Kaiser legally fire or discipline me for going on strike?
No. An unfair labor practice strike is a protected union activity under the National Labor Relations Act. It is illegal for an employer to threaten or even imply an employee will be disciplined or permanently replaced as a result of striking. Please report any abuse by management immediately to a bargaining team member or SEIU 49 organizer.
UPDATED: Do I need to tell my supervisor I will not be reporting to work on the strike day?
No. Kaiser will be given notification ten days in advance. Your supervisor might ask you if you are going on strike. If they do, your bargaining team recommends that you answer “YES.” It is unlawful for management to question you about the strike without making assurances that there will be no action taken against you for doing so.
What About Others?
What will happen to our patients during a strike?
We are required to give a ten-day notice before our strike. It is then Kaiser’s responsibility to reschedule procedures and make a plan to provide care.
UPDATED: How can my co-workers who aren’t members of the Coalition support the strike?
We hope to see incredible solidarity from other union members and co-workers during our strike. We picketed alongside Alliance members during their negotiations. We know the better one group of us does, the better we all do. We expect non-SEIU employees will respect our scope of practice and defined job duties, not pick up extra shifts or overtime, or do our work. Co-workers can support by showing up to a picket on their own time and bringing us food. All workers – on strike or not – have the right to engage in union activity.
updated September 16, 2019