Maryland Legislators Call for Johns Hopkins to Support Nurses' Union Rights

In a significant move, 47 members of the Maryland General Assembly have addressed a letter to Johns Hopkins Hospital, advocating for the rights of registered nurses to form a union without interference from management. This appeal comes as nurses at the hospital allege that management has been actively obstructing their organizing efforts.

Leading the charge are Baltimore Senator Mary Washington and Delegate Robbyn Lewis, who emphasized the importance of allowing nurses to make their own choices regarding union membership free from intimidation and harassment. They criticized the use of anti-union consultants by the hospital, asserting that such practices undermine not only the nurses' rights but also the hospital's mission to provide quality patient care.

Nurses have claimed that the hospital is investing millions in anti-union tactics, which they argue violate their legally protected rights. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has indicated that there is merit to these claims, with a preliminary hearing on the matter scheduled for June 4 in Baltimore.

Senator Washington noted that the skills and dedication of nurses are crucial for patient care, highlighting the need for a supportive environment where they can advocate for both their patients and themselves. Delegate Lewis echoed this sentiment, stating that a respectful approach from management would empower nurses to address significant issues such as high turnover rates and unsafe staffing conditions.

In response to the ongoing situation, Annie Emberton, a registered nurse at Johns Hopkins, expressed gratitude for the legislative support, emphasizing the nurses' commitment to improving patient care standards.

This letter follows previous endorsements from U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin, along with U.S. Representatives Elijah Cummings and John Sarbanes. Additionally, the Baltimore City Council passed a resolution in December 2018 supporting the nurses' efforts to organize.

Reported by HarborBeat based on National Nurses United (source).