More than 400 Washington Hospital workers OK strike

WASHINGTON, Pa. — The union representing more than 400 service workers at a southwestern Pennsylvania hospital says a majority have voted to approve a strike if negotiations on a new contract stall.

SEIU Healthcare Pennsylvania voted Monday to authorize the strike, though the union says contract talks are continuing with The Washington Hospital.

The union's current contract with the 274-bed community hospital about 20 miles southwest of Pittsburgh expires Thursday.

The union says the hospital wants to cut some workers' salaries by more than $4 an hour, reduce protections for those who take medical leave and increase employee contributions that would make health benefits too expensive for some employees.

The hospital hasn't commented on the negotiations with its service workers, who include dietary and housekeeping employees.

WPXI