Brigham nurses vote in record numbers to authorize 1-day strike

Source: Boston.com

Nurses say better pay and stronger retention efforts are needed to address staffing challenges and protect patient care.

By Beth Treffeisen June 17, 2026 | 10:54 AM

Brigham nurses voted in record numbers Tuesday to authorize a one-day strike, escalating a contract dispute with hospital leaders over pay, staffing, and what the union says are ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining enough nurses to care for patients.

The nearly 4,000 registered nurses at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, represented by the Massachusetts Nurses Association, are now part of the largest registered nurse strike authorization in Massachusetts history. The results on Tuesday were 2,798 yes votes to 12 no votes.

The vote comes after seven months of negotiations and 19 bargaining sessions.

The vote does not mean a strike will occur, but it authorizes the Brigham nurses to schedule a one-day strike if necessary to secure a fair contract. If they authorize a strike, nurses will provide 10 days’ notice.


An emergency sign at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston in 2024. Pat Greenhouse/Globe Staff

Read more: https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2026/06/17/brigham-nurses-vote-in-record-numbers-to-authorize-1-day-strike/