Blue Nation Bargaining Update #15: July 11, 2025

Wins on Non-Discrimination Protections and Vacation Pay

Tentative Agreements secured this week include important gains for fairness and consistency. We expanded our non-discrimination language to strengthen protections for all members. We also clarified the language around shift differential pay during vacation to align with current practices, ensuring members are paid accurately and equitably. We also dived into seniority proposals.

See the full update below.

Click here to download the update.

Blue Nation – July 11

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #14: July 3, 2025

Proposals. Progress. Power in Unity.

We’re making strong progress at the bargaining table.
This week, we secured three meaningful Tentative Agreements that strengthen our roles and improve workplace standards:

• Earlier vacation bidding: Submissions will now be completed by Feb. 1 instead of March 1, giving members more time and certainty to plan.
• Per diem standards established: Clear expectations for work commitment and accountability are now in place.
• RN preceptor role expanded: The role is now clearly defined, expanded, and formally recognized—supporting both professional growth and quality patient care.

See the full update below.

Click here to download the update.

Blue Nation – July 3

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #13: June 27, 2025

Major Proposals. Powerful Counters. Unstoppable Unity.

This week, Blue Nation came back to the table with fire in our hearts and power in our proposals — and the action is heating up! 🔥

We’re pushing forward with momentum, courage, and solidarity — submitting strong proposals, countering with intention, and showing up united.

Click here to download the update.

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #12: June 20, 2025

Massive Economic Proposals Just Dropped!

Blue Nation showed up bold and united this week—and the momentum at the table is electric! ⚡️

Our team introduced a game-changing wage grid proposal for RNs, with increases across all steps and years. And we’re not stopping there.

We’re also elevating our Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) with a groundbreaking proposal in progress to establish FOUR progressive APP levels — recognizing the expertise, leadership, and impact our APPs bring to patient care every day. And that’s just the beginning.

Click here for the full two-page update.

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #11: June 13, 2025

Major Progress for Blue Nation!

This week has been exciting — we reached nine new Tentative Agreements (TAs)! After persistent effort, thoughtful debate, and collaborative back-and-forth with management, the TAs include brand-new language and improvements to existing language that was crafted to better protect and strengthen our members’ contractual rights. Each step forward reflects the power of unity and the commitment to securing a stronger future for all.

We thank the observers who were able to join us this week: Ben Celis (Kaiser Ontario RN), Sonia Manzano (Kaiser Ontario RN), Neelam Dhanas (Kaiser Woodland Hills RN), and Nancy Anguiano (LAMC RN).

Subgroup Updates

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #10: May 31, 2025

Moving Forward Through Dialogue

Blue Nation took another step forward in bargaining, continuing deep discussions with management on Friday, May 30. We engaged in the Interest-Based Bargaining process and learned more about management’s approaches to key challenges, including staffing issues. This process allows us to craft stronger solutions-oriented proposals that address members’ critical concerns. On the Wednesday, May 28, we devoted time in our labor caucus to strengthen proposal language.

Subgroup Updates

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #9: May 25, 2025

Progress Continues Across Subgroups as We Deepen Discussions

This week, Blue Nation bargaining continued with sessions on Monday, May 19, and Friday, May 23. We were joined by members of the UNAC/UHCP Research Department, whose insights helped strengthen our proposals and support our positions at the table.

Our subgroups remained active and focused on refining language, deepening discussions, and moving key priorities forward.

Subgroup Updates

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #8: May 17, 2025

Productive Discussions Continue 
This week’s bargaining sessions involved productive discussions and continued collaborative work with management. The dialogue remains respectful and focused on achieving mutually beneficial outcomes.

Subgroup Updates

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #7: May 4, 2025

Our Discussions Continue as National Table Opens
This week’s bargaining sessions featured a combination of joint discussions with management and focused subgroup work. As shared interests continued to surface, both sides engaged in collaborative, forward-moving dialogue. The tone remained respectful and solution-oriented throughout, reinforcing a collaborative atmosphere.

As our local tables continue throughout UNAC/UHCP, Kaiser National Bargaining kicks off May 6 through May 8 at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel. UNAC/UHCP members of the Common Issues Committee join their Alliance of Heath Care Union siblings at the table. Observer signups for limited spots are available on Memberlink.

Subgroup Updates

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #6: April 24, 2025

We’ve Reached Key Tentative Agreements
In a powerful step forward for patients and our members’ professional autonomy, our new contract language creates an improved approach to bidding for job postings that puts our people first. This tentative agreement will clearly prioritize experienced, familiar candidates by affiliate—ensuring the right people are in the right roles, exactly when patients need them most.

Other tentative agreements due to the hard work of the Blue Nation subgroups include:
• new, first-time trial periods for per diem members, as well as clarity on existing trial period language for other groups.
• groundbreaking reorientation rights for healthcare professionals returning from leave.

Subgroup Updates

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #5: April 18, 2025

Proposals Ramping Up
The first month of bargaining has been marked by steady, focused work both in subgroups and at the main table. Throughout these initial sessions, both the union and management have engaged in meaningful dialogue, with each side sharing their core interests and values. Importantly, several mutual interests have begun to emerge, laying the groundwork for more collaborative problem-solving moving forward.

📖 Read the bargaining update email here. The subgroup updates are below.

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #4: April 11, 2025

Introduction of Critical Proposal: Premium Pay When Working Out of Ratio
Our bargaining team introduced an extremely important item that addresses the longstanding challenge of staffing: recognition pay for when nurses work out of ratio. This proposal was drafted by the subgroup “Mutual Fulfillment to Contractual Obligations.” The team walked the employer through the proposal and made a strong case for its necessity in relation to patient care, safety, staff morale, and respect.

Other Subgroup Updates
Clinical Practice, Education, and Training: The subgroup continued pushing forward labor’s priorities to improve support in Home Health, emphasizing the need for clear contract language around training, education, workload, and recognition of the critical care nurses provide.

One key milestone this week was the submission of proposal language ensuring that healthcare professionals returning from leave receive reorientation support—a crucial step to ensure safe, confident reintegration into the workplace.

The UnBoxables: This subgroup was created to address cross-cutting issues that do not neatly fit into other categories. This week, the team:
• Continued developing stronger contract language around return rights.
• Advanced discussions around filling of positions, and transfers.
• Engaged with management to explore feasible solutions.

Advanced Practice Providers (APP):
Discussions covered workload, education, and professional development. Next steps include developing and sharing proposals to support these.

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #3: April 4, 2025

Building a Contract that Supports You
Blue Nation met with management this week to continue laying the foundation for a strong, transformative contract.

We presented our first proposal, which would allow per diems to have trial period right just like part-time and full-time employees have.

We spent time identifying mutual interests, clarifying key terms, and outlining the information we need to move forward with meaningful negotiations.

Root Causes
We are working to identify root causes of burnout and short staffing. We are working for a contract that improves retention and builds a safe, stable culture—one where every healthcare worker feels supported and every patient receives the care they deserve.

Stay Engaged
Watch for upcoming events, opportunities to share your story, and ways for you to talk to your coworkers about bargaining. This is just the beginning—and we need you with us every step of the way.

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #2: March 28, 2025

We’re Prepared; We’re Determined
Our bargaining team of registered nurses and healthcare professionals is showing up with heart, purpose, and unwavering commitment at the table.

Team members bring all of their experience from the bedside, the clinic, and the field—channeling a deep care for patients and coworkers into bold, strategic action.

This team is making sure that every proposal speaks to what truly matters: safe staffing, wages that attract and retain dedicated professionals, and a work environment that respects and supports those who give so much every day. Our team has heard your voices through rounding, surveys, and other feedback.

Your passion is a powerful reminder that bargaining isn’t just business—it’s about protecting the promise of our profession.

We’re proud of the strength and solidarity our Blue Nation team is showing at the table—and even more proud of what’s to come. Stay tuned, stay connected, and stay ready to support the fight for the future we all deserve.

More Work on Subgroups
Our conversations are moving forward with more clarity, thanks to the introduction of subgroups.

Blue Nation Bargaining Update #1: March 21, 2025

Strong Start, Fired-Up Team
We started negotiations this week with incredible energy and preparation, and we’re more confident than ever about the work ahead.

Over the past three days, our team came together to assess our priorities and refine our interests. We began to share them with Kaiser in joint sessions.

The result? A well-organized, highly engaged team that’s ready to make meaningful progress.

Subgroups for key issues
Our Blue Book team introduced subgroups, which will be a game-changer. By breaking down our work into focused teams, we can dive deep into key issues affecting clinical practice and patient care, ensuring that every voice is heard and every idea is explored. This structure makes us more efficient, more productive, and more strategic. We’ve created space for in-depth conversations that move us forward with more clarity.

Building momentum
Everyone is engaged, empowered, and ready to fight for the best possible contract. Every detail is contributing to a strong and productive start.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to push forward!

“Our team is fired up; our vision is working. We’re on track to win the contract our members deserve.”
—Vanessa Caballero, Blue Book lead negotiator

Kaiser Southern California Kickoff: March 14, 2025

Southern California Kickoff
We’re ready to work toward a contract that strengthens our labor-management partnership and ensures the best care for our patients. Nearly 30,000 registered nurses and healthcare professionals across Southern California are coming together to advocate for wages that attract, retain, and respect the dedicated professionals who keep Kaiser Permanente at the forefront of healthcare.

Representing registered nurses, pharmacists, rehab therapists, optometrists, dietitians, audiologists, health educators, and speech-language pathologists, we know that delivering high-quality care starts with safe staffing. When teams are fully supported, patients receive the best care, and professionals can work at the top of their licenses.

Almost all Southern California KP contracts expire on September 30, 2025. These negotiations are a key opportunity to strengthen our workforce, improve patient outcomes, and reinforce the partnership that has provided high-quality care to Kaiser Permanente patients.

Together, we are committed to solutions that support healthcare professionals, enhance patient care, and uphold our shared mission. Stay engaged—this is our moment to make a real difference.