Hemet nurses ratify 3-year contract with safety and retention gains

Registered nurses at Hemet Global Medical Center in Hemet, California, voted overwhelmingly on July 7 to ratify a new three-year contract that California Nurses Association/National Nurses United said includes protections aimed at improving patient safety and nurse retention.

The agreement follows months of bargaining and covers the period from May 2026 to May 2028. According to the union, the contract includes safe staffing improvements, with language related to charge nurses and resource nurses, as well as standardized training.

It also adds workplace violence prevention provisions, including increased security and signage. In addition, the deal includes economic gains intended to help retain and recruit experienced nurses, with a 15.5 percent wage increase over the life of the contract.

The union said the agreement contains no takeaways.

Sharon Glisson, an ICU registered nurse, said nurses had been raising concerns and pressing for improvements both at the bargaining table and inside the facility. She said the contract delivers real improvements for patients, strengthens retention, and provides meaningful support for nurses.

Jennie Price, a registered nurse in the post-anesthesia care unit, said the result reflects unity, perseverance, and a commitment to safe, quality care. She said the nurses made their voices heard and made change happen.

CNA said it represents more than 300 nurses at Hemet Global Medical Center. The union also described itself as the largest and fastest-growing union and professional association of registered nurses in the nation, with more than 100,000 members in more than 200 facilities throughout California and more than 225,000 registered nurses nationwide.

No additional details about implementation, staffing levels, or other contract terms were reported in the source.