Thank you for taking a look at our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), which will help give you the information you need about a potential strike. Remember, you also need to click here and add your name to the strike pledge if you haven't already!
What is a strike?
A strike is when union members withhold their labor together to put pressure on management to reach a fair agreement. It is our most powerful tool to achieve safe staffing, fair wages, and respect for our work. We sacrifice in the short term for long term gain for our patients and ourselves.
When could a strike happen?
A strike could only happen if authorized by members, beginning on or after October 1, 2025, when our contracts expire. By law, the union must give Kaiser at least 10 days’ notice before any strike. This notice period allows additional bargaining to try to reach an agreement that avoids a strike, and it gives Kaiser time to prepare for continuity of care.
How is going on strike decided?
Only OFNHP Kaiser members can decide whether to strike. A strike authorization vote empowers the bargaining team to call a strike if necessary. We move forward only when members demonstrate strong unity and support.
How does the strike authorization process work?
The union will issue a strike authorization vote. If a supermajority of members vote in favor, the bargaining unit chairs may authorize a strike if they deem it necessary to secure fair contracts.
Does authorizing a strike mean the strike begins immediately?
No. Strike authorization means a strike may be called. Hospital strikes in the U.S. require a 10-day notice period. Once a strategic start date is chosen, notice is provided and members have 10 days to prepare. October 1 is the earliest possible start date, but a strike could happen at any point afterward with sufficient notice.
What issues could lead to a strike?
A strike may become necessary if management refuses to make meaningful progress on the most important elements of our contract. Wages are central because they directly affect safe staffing, patient support, and work-life balance. Fair wage adjustments are essential to recruit and retain qualified staff and to address the rising cost of living.
Will I be required to strike?
Participation is an individual choice. However, a strike is effective only when the vast majority take part. Bargaining unit chairs will not call a strike unless members show strong support.
Can I be disciplined or fired for striking?
No. It is unlawful to retaliate against employees for taking part in a protected strike.
Will it just be OFNHP going on strike?
No. A strike would include all eligible units across our Alliance of Healthcare Unions, representing 60,000 workers nationwide.
Are we asking patients not to cross the picket line?
No. Patients always deserve access to care. When patients arrive during a strike, it underscores the essential role of our members. Delays are likely, and patient care quality may be impacted when experienced staff are replaced by temporary workers. The best solution is for Kaiser to settle a fair contract.
Will I be paid during a strike?
No. Striking means withholding labor and wages. Hardship resources and support funds will be available for members on strike and participating in strike activities.
What about health insurance?
Kaiser could choose to end health benefits after the employer-paid period, though this is extremely rare. In most Oregon healthcare strikes, benefits have continued, including the recent 46-day Providence strike. COBRA coverage would be available to ensure continuity of care should Kaiser make that choice.
What if I need financial help?
While there is no permanent strike fund, members can apply for an interest-free loan through AFT, our national union. Additional hardship funds will also be available. Members are encouraged to prepare savings if possible. More information on strike resources is available.
Is striking safe for patients?
Yes. The law requires 10 days’ notice, giving Kaiser time to adjust admissions and staffing. Our strike is about improving care by securing safe staffing and fair working conditions.
Can my license be sanctioned for “patient abandonment”?
No. A lawful strike with proper notice is not patient abandonment. No licensing board can punish members for exercising their legal right to strike.
How long will a strike last?
The duration depends on our strategy and how quickly Kaiser agrees to a fair contract. Most healthcare strikes last from a few days to a few weeks, though members must be prepared for longer if needed.
Will the public support us?
Yes. Healthcare workers are highly trusted, and patients recognize that our fight is for safe staffing and quality care. Community groups, unions, and allies will stand with us.
Which units are prohibited from striking?
Two of our six bargaining units — Techs and Registered Dental Hygienists (RDH) — have different contract expiration dates. They cannot legally strike at this time but will continue to support the campaign in other critical ways.
If I’m not in a striking unit, can Kaiser make me do the work of striking employees?
No. You cannot be forced to perform “struck work” — tasks normally done by striking employees. If management directs you to do so, document the request and report it to the union.
Can I strike if I’m on probation or if I’m an on-call employee?
Yes. All represented employees — including probationary and on-call staff — have the same federally protected right to strike. You cannot be fired, disciplined, or retaliated against for striking. If retaliation occurs, your union will defend you.
Other than not reporting to work, how can I participate?
The most important action is to honor the strike by not crossing the picket line. Members are also encouraged to sign up for picket shifts at Kaiser facilities. Visibility on the line builds morale and informs patients and the public of our cause.
What if I have a medical condition that prevents me from joining the line?
If you are under doctor’s orders and cannot walk the line, you will not be required to. Contact your union representative to discuss alternative ways to support the strike. Every member has a role, and accommodations will be made.
What if I have medical appointments or procedures during the strike?
Continue attending medical appointments as needed. Striking does not affect your right to access care.
What about managers being reassigned to bedside care?
The Oregon State Board of Nursing requires that anyone accepting a patient assignment must be competent and documented as such. Managers who have not provided direct care in years may not meet these standards, raising risks for both patients and licenses.
What if I’m scheduled when the strike begins?
If you are at work when the strike begins, safely hand off patients and complete necessary charting before joining your coworkers on the picket line. Striking after proper notice is not patient abandonment. We will provide specific instruction on this matter should a strike be called.
What about replacement workers?
Kaiser may attempt to bring in temporary workers, but healthcare jobs require licensing and orientation, making this difficult. We are strongest when we remain united on the picket line.
I work remotely — do I have to honor the strike?
Yes. Remote workers who continue working are considered to have crossed the picket line. During a strike, Kaiser may reassign duties or require PTO if services are disrupted. Remote employees should participate in the same way as on-site employees.
What do we do on the picket line?
DO: Sign up for shifts, carry signs, chant, bring friends/family, stay safe, have fun, and follow the Picket Captain’s lead.
DON’T: Block traffic, trespass on hospital property, confront replacement workers, or use abusive language. The picket line is about unity, safety, and visibility.
Can managers ask if I’m striking?
Yes, but you are not required to answer. If asked, report it to a steward.
Should I take my belongings out of my worksite before a strike?
Yes, you should. Technically, when we are on strike, management is not required to respect your workspace. We recommend removing any personal belongings from lockers, cubicles, or other work areas. Doing this together can also be a powerful action—when management sees workers across their units voluntarily clearing out their belongings during the ten-day notice and before the strike begins, it sends a strong message.
Will I be required to train replacement workers?
You are required to follow management’s direction and train those you are instructed to. If training travelers is not part of your work or falls outside your job duties, you can file a grievance or take other action. When you train replacement workers, make sure to cover every policy and requirement thoroughly so that nothing is missed. Many of the employees still working during the strike will be watching closely and reporting mistakes, and you can remind them that their work will be highly scrutinized.
What should you avoid doing in advance of a strike?
Never disparage the care that Kaiser provides. Instead, focus on expressing concern for the future of patient care if Kaiser forces a strike. For example, you can raise questions about whether Kaiser will be able to provide life-saving care during a strike if they refuse to settle a fair contract.
What does the strike authorization process look like?
Strike authorization will run from the early morning of September 15th through mid-day on September 19th. Results will be shared with members shortly after voting closes and announced publicly the following Monday. Voting will take place primarily online through emailed ballots, but we will also have worksite locations where you can ask questions and cast your vote if you are unable to do so by email.
What can you do to make this strike authorization vote a success?
First, sign the strike pledge to show your commitment to voting YES on the strike authorization vote. Second, talk to your coworkers about a potential strike, share what you’ve learned from this FAQ, and encourage them to sign the pledge too. Strikes are successful when we stand together in solidarity, so letting your coworkers know you plan to strike if called and that you’ve got their back is the most powerful thing you can do!
What can I do right now?
- Sign the strike pledge (when it is released) to show support in the event of a vote.
- Talk with coworkers and encourage them to do the same.
- Stay informed through bargaining updates, union news, and by attending union meetings.