The Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA) bargaining committee reported that MGB officials refused to negotiate on key issues during Tuesday’s session, signaling a continuation of the impasse that triggered the recent four-day labor dispute. Nurses are specifically pushing for strict limits on the use of temporary travel nurses, arguing that the reliance on outside staff during the lockout compromised patient safety and continuity of care.

Beyond staffing, the union is demanding more affordable health insurance options, a float differential for nurses moving across units, and wage increases that account for persistent inflation. Kelly Morgan, chair of the BWH bargaining committee, described the hospital’s refusal to engage as a sign of continued disrespect toward the workforce. While the committee has secured a follow-up session in early August, union leadership warned that they are prepared to escalate to further actions if management maintains its current stance. Negotiations for separate MNA-represented home care clinicians are set to resume on Wednesday.