Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital Workers to Fight Illegal Layoffs
Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital is trying to force layoffs on approximately 100 caregivers, even though the hospital’s 4.8% operating profit margin is more than double the California average of 2%, and over the last five years SVMH has made a profit every year, recording cumulative profits of $101.6 million. Between them, SVMH’s top five officers were paid $2.2 million in 2009.
In announcing its proposed cuts, SVMH failed to comply with California law, which requires that employers provide 60 days’ advance notice prior to massive layoffs and bargain in good faith with unions representing the affected workers. These violations open the hospital to potentially millions of dollars in back pay and penalties.
Tomorrow at 4:30PM, NUHW members at SVMH, including Licensed Vocational Nurses, Certified Nurses Aides, Respiratory Therapists, Food Service Workers, Housekeepers and Unit Clerks, will be joined by Salinas City Council Member Sergio Sanchez at a candlelight vigil at the hospital to protest the unnecessary and illegal cuts. If you’re an SVMH worker, here’s an invitation that you can print and share with your friends and family.