On Jan. 9, members of UFCW Local 152 who work at Genesis HealthCare “Millville Center,” an assisted living facility in Millville, N.J., ratified their first union contract. The members, who are employed as certified nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses, joined UFCW Local 152 last May.
With the implementation of the three-year contract, Genesis HealthCare workers now have basic protections established. These protections include:
- Union members are no longer “at-will” employees, meaning the employer must have a legitimate reason to terminate.
- A three-step grievance and arbitration process, which is a formal procedure for employees to raise concerns or complaints about their employer or working conditions.
- Seniority provisions, recognizing senior members with more time, experience, and dedication to the company.
- Clear and fair job postings so all qualified and interested members are considered for a promotional position.
- Union orientation language, allowing new employees to learn about their union membership and the benefits of being a union member.
The contract also defines holidays, vacations, sick pay, and bereavement usage. Finally, wage increases were secured for each year of the contract, including shift and weekend differentials, with additional longevity increases available based on years of service.
“These employees at Genesis HealthCare wanted their terms of employment guaranteed in writing,” said UFCW Local 152 President Daniel Ross Jr. “Together, we secured that with a strong first contract that includes much-needed wage increases. Longevity increases are useful in addressing wage compression, which can contribute to lower workplace morale in the industry. Our negotiating committee was successful in bargaining additional compensation based on length of service to incentivize retention and reward dedicated staff members.”
“These workers should be proud of themselves for organizing and staying united through the bargaining process,” Ross added. “They have now gained an effective voice on the job, and I welcome them to the Local 152 family.”
