DHS is claiming that a 4% increase to relief nurses’ hourly wages earned between October 1, 2006 and December 31, 2008 is an “overpayment,” and has been automatically deducting back wages.
Dozens of dedicated relief nurses — of the several hundred who cover weekends and holidays to care for patients around the clock, on short notice — have taken action, submitting questionnaires and court declarations to protest the move.
Union Victory
The hard work paid off: On March 23, Judge James Chalfant ordered DHS to stop the payroll deductions until the final outcome of the arbitration process, which could take a year or more.
“I cried tears of joy and gratefulness when I received the news. This was not our fault. This is the first step toward victory. Keep the faith now and always.”
— Kai Dallas, Relief Nurse, Harbor/UCLA Medical Center
“We build strength when we get together to fight for
our rights. Nurses should band together to speak out!”
— Danny Ranchez,
Relief Nurse, LAC+USC Medical Center
Join Relief Nurses at the Arbitration Hearing
Friday, April 8 • 9:30 am
LA County Employee Relations Commission
Hall of Administration
500 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Transportation available.
For more information, call Marc Hernandez at (213) 422-0113.