Colin Gillis, a registered nurse at University Hospital and a prominent leader of UW Nurses United, an affiliate of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Wisconsin, has been an advocate for nurses’ rights at UW Health for several years. After experiencing the decline of public sector labor unions since 2014, Gillis and his colleagues faced a significant setback when the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled against union recognition for UW nurses under the Wisconsin Employment Peace Act in June 2023. This decision has been met with disappointment among the nursing community, who view collective bargaining as essential for advocating not only for better wages but for the overall enhancement of the healthcare system.
### The Context of Collective Bargaining
In 2011, the political landscape in Wisconsin drastically changed when former Governor Scott Walker signed Act 10. This legislation stripped collective bargaining rights from most public employees, including university nurses, allowing negotiations only related to wages. The ambiguity surrounding whether UW Health employees could collectively bargain has lingered for over a decade, severely affecting the working conditions and job satisfaction of nurses.
Gillis shared that over the last few years, the morale of UW nurses has waned. The percentage of nurses intending to stay at UW Health has declined from 89% to 83%. This discontent led to organizational efforts for union representation, culminating in tense labor negotiations and threats of strikes, most notably a planned three-day strike in 2022.
### Recent Developments and the Disappointing Court Decision
The recent court ruling has effectively cemented the restrictions imposed by Act 10, preventing an immediate path to collective bargaining rights for nurses. Gillis expressed disappointment with the decision, emphasizing that collective bargaining is about more than just salary—it’s an integral part of advocating for patient safety, staffing ratios, and overall healthcare excellence.
“We need to advocate effectively, and collective bargaining would give us that power,” Gillis stated in an interview with The Daily Cardinal. Since the termination of their last contract in 2014, many issues, including deteriorating nurse-to-patient ratios and staff shortages, have arisen without adequate input from nursing professionals. In 2018, a hiring freeze exacerbated the situation, stretching nurses thin and compromising patient safety.
The court’s ruling came after the Wisconsin Employment Relations Commission concluded that UW Health was not mandated to bargain under the Peace Act, a decision that SEIU Wisconsin contested in the Dane County Circuit Court and subsequently in the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
### Legislative Efforts and Future Directions
Despite the disheartening ruling, SEIU and UW Nurses United reaffirmed their commitment to restoring collective bargaining rights. They stated, “The path to gaining collective bargaining rights does not end here.” Among their strategies is seeking voluntary recognition and advocating for legislative changes that could enhance their bargaining capabilities.
The response from Gov. Tony Evers, who initiated “meet and discuss” sessions between hospital management and union representatives in 2022, has brought some improvements, such as enhanced communication and better support for nursing staff. These incremental changes have fostered a sense of visibility and dialogue that was previously absent, but they do not equate to legal rights that solidify protections around staffing and pay.
Gillis noted that while recent developments reflect progress, they still rely heavily on informal relationships with hospital leadership. “Right now, our ability to advocate is dependent on this informal relationship — not legal rights,” he emphasized.
### Addressing Broader Concerns
The situation for UW nurses reflects broader concerns within the healthcare sector, not only in Wisconsin but across the United States. The ongoing difficulties in recruiting and retaining nursing staff highlight systemic issues that collective bargaining could help address. With rising healthcare costs and an increasing patient load, conditions are challenging for nurses who are often caught in the middle of corporate policies and patient care needs.
The frustrations and aspirations of nurses at UW Health are a microcosm of the ongoing struggle for labor rights in the public sector. With healthcare professionals facing unprecedented challenges, the ability to negotiate for their rights becomes even more critical. Gillis and the nurses continue to believe that their collective voice can lead to meaningful change, emphasizing the need for legislation that supports fair labor practices in the healthcare sector.
### Conclusion
The recent court ruling against union recognition for UW Health nurses is undoubtedly a disappointment for many individuals within the nursing community. However, the resilience shown by Colin Gillis and UW Nurses United demonstrates a firm commitment to advocacy and worker rights. The path forward may be fraught with challenges, yet the determination to restore meaningful collective bargaining rights remains strong. As discussions continue and new strategies emerge, the hope is that nurses at UW Health will one day regain their voice—ultimately leading to a more equitable and effective healthcare system.
The importance of collective bargaining rights cannot be understated in the healthcare field. When nurses have a seat at the table, patients receive better care, working conditions improve, and the strength of public sector labor unions can be reborn. Their journey is one to watch, as it embodies the ongoing fight for equity, representation, and, ultimately, a stronger healthcare system for all.
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