Union Approves Strike Notice to Waterbury Hospital

A labor union committee has approved the issuing of a 10-day strike notice to Waterbury Hospital involving 250 workers.

The Republican-American of Waterbury reports that a negotiating committee of District 1199 of the New England Healthcare Employees Union approved the strike notice on Wednesday, but no decision has been made on when to deliver it.

Union members voted overwhelmingly last August to give the committee that authority.

A possible strike would include 250 patient care associates, unit clerks, supply personnel and maintenance workers. One of the key sticking points in the contract talks is a management proposal to change paid time-off benefits.

Management refused to extend the workers' contract in August and imposed its contract offer at the time. The union has complained to the National Labor Relations Board.