Hundreds of nurses at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital in Madison working to unionize

May 16, 2026 - 13:45

More than 300 registered nurses at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital in Madison are taking steps to unionize, citing concerns over staffing levels and patient safety. The effort, led by a group of nurses, aims to join the Wisconsin Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals. Organizers say they filed a petition with the National Labor Relations Board on Monday, seeking an election to form a collective bargaining unit.

The nurses argue that chronic understaffing has led to burnout and high turnover rates, which they say compromise care. "We are at a breaking point," one nurse involved in the campaign said. "We want a seat at the table to address safe staffing ratios and ensure we can provide the care our patients deserve."

SSM Health responded in a statement, saying it respects employees' rights to organize but believes the hospital already offers competitive wages and a supportive work environment. The hospital noted it has hired additional staff in recent months and continues to invest in retention programs.

If the union is approved, the nurses would join a growing trend of healthcare workers organizing across the country. The NLRB will now schedule a vote, which could take place within weeks. The outcome will depend on a majority of the eligible nurses casting ballots.