On February 21, 2026, history was made in New York City.
After 41 days on the picket line, approximately 4,200 nurses at NewYork-Presbyterian voted overwhelmingly — 93% in favor — to ratify a new three-year contract, officially ending the longest and largest nursing strike in New York City history.
The strike, which began on January 12, became a defining moment not only for nurses but for the broader labor movement. Led by the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA), these frontline healthcare professionals stood firm for safe staffing, workplace protections, and patient-centered care.
This was not simply about wages — it was about protecting the integrity of healthcare in one of the largest cities in the world.
The newly ratified agreement delivers meaningful gains for nurses and the patients they serve:
Nurses secured raises totaling more than 12% over the three-year life of the contract, recognizing the essential and highly skilled nature of their work.
Improved and enforceable staffing ratios were a central demand. The agreement increases the number of nurses and strengthens accountability measures to ensure safer patient care and reduce burnout.
For the first time, the contract includes protections regarding the use of artificial intelligence in hospital settings. As healthcare technology evolves, nurses ensured that AI implementation will not undermine clinical judgment, job security, or patient safety.
Frontline nurses maintained their health benefits with no additional out-of-pocket costs, a critical victory during a time when many workers nationwide face rising healthcare expenses.
The contract enhances protections against workplace violence — a growing concern in healthcare environments — helping ensure safer conditions for those who care for others.
The strike initially involved roughly 15,000 nurses across three major health systems:
Nurses at Montefiore and Mount Sinai reached agreements and returned to work on February 14. However, NewYork-Presbyterian nurses held out for an additional week after rejecting a mediator-proposed deal they believed did not sufficiently address staffing and job security.
Their decision to stay united ultimately strengthened the final agreement.
Following ratification, nurses began returning to their bedside duties during the week of February 23, 2026 — bringing their commitment, resilience, and professionalism back to the communities they serve.
This strike underscores a powerful truth: when union healthcare workers stand together, they elevate standards not just for themselves, but for patients, families, and entire communities.
At the Union Labor Advisory Network, we recognize that this moment reflects something larger than a contract settlement. It reflects:
This historic outcome sends a clear message — patient care and worker protections are not negotiable.
When union nurses are supported, healthcare systems are stronger.
When frontline workers have a voice, communities are safer.
And when labor stands united, meaningful change is possible.