Los Angeles, California – California nurses’ strike actions continue to expand across multiple counties as contract disputes intensify. What began as labor negotiations has escalated into an open-ended work stoppage involving tens of thousands of health care professionals. For many Filipino-American communities in California, where many work in health care, the strike raises concerns about job stability, patient care, and income.
Ongoing Strike by California Nurses Across Southern California Facilities
Picket lines resumed Monday at 9 a.m. in Los Angeles and Orange County. Approximately 31,000 members of the United Nurses Associations of California/Union of Health Care Professionals (UNAC/UHCP) are now in the fourth week of an open-ended strike against Kaiser Permanente.
Filipino-American nurse Charmaine Morales, UNAC/UHCP president, linked the strike to alleged unfair labor practices and concerns about staffing and working conditions. The union filed a charge with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), alleging that Kaiser withdrew from bargaining discussions in December and tried to bypass the established negotiation process.
Kaiser representatives maintain they have offered a 21.5% wage increase, describing it as one of the strongest nursing proposals in California this year. Additional strike actions have also taken place at Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana and West Anaheim Medical Centers, where nurses cite staffing levels, recruitment challenges, and patient care conditions as central issues.
Understanding the Labor Law Issues Behind the Strike
The California nurses’ strike highlights several core labor law principles under federal and state regulations. Health care workers engaged in protected concerted activity are generally covered by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).
Key legal concepts involved include:
- Unfair labor practice (ULP) claims filed with the NLRB
- Good faith bargaining requirements during contract negotiations
- Protected strike activity under federal labor law
- Retaliation protections for union participation
- Collective bargaining rights covering wages, staffing, and working conditions
If an employer violates bargaining obligations, federal authorities may require corrective actions. Employers can assert compliance with negotiation standards. For workers, understanding these protections is crucial—especially in industries like healthcare where strikes impact employment and community care.
Know Your Rights During Labor Disputes in California
For Filipino-American nurses and healthcare professionals affected by the California nurses’ strike, clarity on legal rights is crucial. Labor disputes can raise concerns about job security, discipline, or retaliation.
If you believe your rights were violated, consulting an experienced employment lawyer can help you understand your legal options. Our team offers FREE consultations to review workplace concerns. Contact us today to discuss your situation and protect your rights under California and federal employment laws.
