Congressman Ryan Comments On Critical Vote By SEIU Members

Statement

Today, Congressman Tim Ryan (OH-17) made the following comment regarding the vote made by members of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) regarding contract negotiations with Ardent Health Systems.

"Last night, the SEIU voted to ratify a labor agreement necessary to keep a major hospital system open in the Mahoning Valley, and I want to commend them for taking this critical first step," said Congressman Ryan. "Their leadership is essential to secure the jobs of thousands of employees throughout the region, while helping to strengthen our area's economic security and health care delivery network."

The Congressman added, "This bankruptcy has been a difficult process, putting tremendous strain on the many families that work at Forum Health and the patients that seek care there. Throughout the past year, Forum employees have maintained a high level of professionalism and continue to provide the quality health care to which our community is accustomed. While many have questioned the decisions and direction of Forum Health in the past, the workers, quite frankly, have demonstrated a professionalism and commitment that is second to none. I want to personally thank the members of the SEIU and its leadership team for focusing on the big picture and being willing to make sacrifices for the good of our entire community. Their strong leadership does not go unnoticed."

"There is still work to be done," Ryan continued. "Members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and the Ohio Nurses Association (ONA) will soon face a similar vote, and I've no doubt that they are considering the scenario for a promising, more stable health system which will be a key component in the continued economic renaissance that is occurring in the Mahoning Valley."

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