These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) were developed with strike preparation for nurses at Seattle Children’s in mind, but also include general labor information that other healthcare workers may find useful.
Strike FAQS from WSNA:
What can I tell providers about negotiations or a potential strike?
Updates providers may find helpful:
A provider told me they’re not allowed to talk about our union or a potential nurses strike—is that true?
No. If other non-work-related matters can be discussed during work time, providers can ask nurses about WSNA, negotiations, or a strike.
Sources:
National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) – Section 7 & 8(a)(1)
Revised Code of Washington – Chapter 41.56
What is a “strike fund”?
In “traditional” labor unions like Teamsters or UAW, a strike fund is maintained to support striking workers’ needs as long as they’re in good standing (they pay their dues) and are active in the strike (on the picket line and/or a strike committee).
WSNA does not maintain a strike fund for local bargaining units, but we could—and should! See the Strike Fund page for more info.
How does the new unemployment law work?
As of 2026, striking workers may be eligible for up to 6 weeks of unemployment benefits, beginning the second Sunday after a strike begins + the standard one week waiting period. The timing of these benefits is a little confusing, so please read the Strikes, Lockouts and Labor Disputes page on WA Employment Security Department for specifics.
COMING SOON: Below is an attempt to visualize the timeline of strike –> unemployment benefits. It is based on a similar calendar from the Unemployed Worker’s Handbook (p. 16) and information from ESD’s website, but it is not an official image from ESD.
Seattle Nurses Labor Caucus 