Allina health care workers participating in 2-day strike

Monday, some Allina Health workers are staging a strike for what they say are unfair labor practices.

The two-day strike is happening at St. Francis Medical Center and Abbott Northwestern.

Members of the group striking say they are pushing for more health and safety precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, after bargaining since May, both sides have not reached an agreement.

For the next two days, about 200 of the union’s members are expected to strike. Those employees include respiratory therapists, medical lab technicians, and radiology techs, among others.

Workers want language in their contracts that will ensure protections, pay and benefits for potential exposures to COVID-19.

Allina sent 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS a statement Monday, saying, in part:

"Like most businesses and health care providers, Allina Health has experienced significant financial pressure as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. SEIU’s proposal for a 13% wage increase over the life of the contract, among other economic enhancements, is unrealistic and out-of-step with the current environment. While balancing financial realities, Allina Health has still offered a 2.25% wage increase over the life of each contract and is not seeking any concessions in current contract language."

The company added that it’s prepared to provide a fully array of services to patients despite the two-day work stoppage by union employees.

There will also be two rallies during the two-day strike.