February 17, 2025 (Portland, Ore.) - More than a week after nearly 5,000 frontline nurses from eight Providence hospitals resoundingly voted no on a tentative agreement, Providence has agreed to come back to negotiations. The overwhelming no vote on the previous tentative agreement highlights the deep concerns of frontline caregivers over competitive wages, working conditions, and staffing levels in Providence hospitals. ONA is eager to get back into mediation and address these concerns.

Mediation will take place on Tuesday, February 18 and Wednesday, February 19.

ONA-represented nurses have been on strike for 39 days and are holding the picket lines at high levels, after a month of not being paid, and a threat from Providence to cut their health benefits on February 28.

“As nurses from all eight Providence hospitals across Oregon, we remain united and steadfast in our commitment to this strike. We will not stop until we have a contract that prioritizes frontline nurses and the patients we serve,” said Virginia Smith, an RN from Providence Willamette Falls and leader of the bargaining team.

Elected officials from across Oregon continue to publicly pressure Providence to settle a fair contract. Most recently, 11 Portland City Councilors sent a letter to Providence executives, urging them to return to bargaining and settle a fair contract. Throughout the strike, other elected officials including Governor Kotek, legislators from across the state, and seven of Oregon’s members of Congress have all called on Providence to negotiate in good faith and settle a contract.

“We have widespread support from all across the state because the issues that we’re striking for impact the communities we serve,” continued Smith. “When Oregonians come into our care, they expect and deserve safely staffed hospitals and frontline caregivers who have the time to address each patient’s needs.”

ONA will not comment publicly during mediation.