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STATE COLLEGE -- Contract negotiations resumed Monday between Mount Nittany Health and the union representing nearly 1,000 hospital employees, with union leaders saying they were disappointed by the hospital's latest contract proposal following a five-day strike.
According to the union, Mount Nittany Health reduced its wage offer to 2% annual raises over three years, lowered proposed increases for nurses and withdrew other previously offered improvements.
Union members contend the proposal comes as the health system continues expanding its facilities, including construction of a new patient tower and other projects.
Workers also proposed that Mount Nittany Health President and CEO Kathleen Rhine attend future bargaining sessions and that the health system cover health insurance benefits and other costs incurred after workers' insurance coverage ended during the strike.
"We came back today ready to engage in good-faith negotiations with a real back and forth so we could reach an agreement for patient care, safety and pay," said Tom Brezler, an X-ray special procedures technologist and union member. "I'm deeply disappointed by the hospital's approach to go lower."
The union also alleged Mount Nittany Health committed unfair labor practices during negotiations and spent significant resources on temporary replacement workers during the strike. It further claimed the health system reported $509 million in revenue and $183 million in profit during fiscal year 2025 while continuing to invest in expansion projects.
No additional bargaining sessions have been scheduled, according to the union.
Mount Nittany Health had not responded publicly to the union's latest claims at the time the release was issued.